bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Familial cataracts and concurrent ocular anomalies in Chow Chows
Authors: Collins B. Keith , Collier Linda L. , Johnson Gary S. , Shibuya Hisashi , Moore Cecil P. , da Silva Curiel Jeannette M. A.
Published: December 2023

A closely inbred line of Chow Chows affected with congenital cataracts was studied. Sixteen dogs were examined including 1 adult male, 2 adult females, and 13 pups. Twelve of the pups were from 6 different litters, out of 6 different bitches, all sired by 1 adult male. The exact relationship of the thirteenth pup was undetermined. Clinical evaluation included slit-lamp biomicroscopy, biomicroscopic photography, and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Clinical appearance of the cataracts was variable, ranging from incipient nuclear or capsular lesions to advanced cortical opacity. The lens nucleus was most consistently affected, with variable involvement of the lens cortex. Concurrent ocular anomalies of some eyes included wandering nystagmus, entropion, microphthalmia, persistent pupillary membrane remnants, and multifocal retinal folds. A correlation was not apparent between the character or severity of the cataracts and the fnding of the other anomalies. Histologic examination of 12 lenses revealed posterior displacement of the lens nucleus, retained lens epithelial cell nuclei in the nuclear and cortical lens, anterior capsular irregularity and duplication, anterior lens epithelial duplication, and posterior subcapsular migration of epithelium. The high incidence of cataract in this family of Chow Chows suggested an inherited defect, although the inheritance pattern was undetermined.
Anesthetic management of ostriches
Authors: Cornick Janyce L. , Jensen James
Published: December 2023

We evaluated and characterized several anesthetic induction protocols used to facilitate intubation and anesthetic maintenance with isoflurane in 7 adult ostriches and 1 juvenile ostrich. Induction protocols included iv administration of zolazepam/tiletamine, iv administration of diazepam/ketamine with and without xylazine, iv administration of xylazine/ketamine, im administration of carfentanil or xylazine/carfentanil, and mask induction with isoflurane. General anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in 100% oxygen for various procedures, including proventriculotomy (6 birds), tibial (1 bird) or mandibular (1 bird) fracture repair, and drainage of an iatrogenic hematoma (1 bird). Heart rate and respiratory rate varied greatly among birds. The arterial blood pressure values recorded from 6 of the birds during maintenance of general anesthesia were higher than values recorded for most mammalian species, but were comparable to values reported for awake chickens and turkeys.
Cardiopulmonary and behavioral effects of combinations of acepromazine/butorphanol and acepromazine/oxymorphone in dogs
Authors: Cornick J. L. , Hartsfield S. M.
Published: December 2023

Cardiopulmonary and behavioral effects of the following tranquilizer-opioid drug combinations were compared in conscious dogs: acepromazine (0.22 mg/kg of body weight, iv) and butorphanol (0.22 mg/kg, iv); acepromazine (0.22 mg/kg, im) and butorphanol (0.22 mg/kg, im); and acepromazine (0.22 mg/kg, iv) and oxymorphone (0.22 mg/kg, iv). Marked sedation and lateral recumbency that required minimal or no restraint was achieved with every drug combination. Analgesia was significantly better in dogs receiving oxymorphone than in dogs receiving butorphanol, as evaluated by response to toe pinch. There were no significant differences between the effects of the 3 drug combinations on heart rate, respiratory rate, arterial blood pressure, body temperature, and arterial pH, PCO2, PO2, and bicarbonate concentration. Heart rate, respiratory rate, and systolic arterial pressure decreased significantly over time with all drug combinations. Total recovery time (minutes from the initial injection to standing) was significantly longer in the dogs given acepromazine and oxymorphone.
Effects of recombinant canine granulocyte colony-stimulating factor on white blood cell production in clinically normal and neutropenic dogs
Authors: Mishu Leslie , Callahan Ginger , Allebban Zuhair , Maddux Jeanne M. , Boone Thomas C. , Souza Lawrence M. , Lothrop Clinton D.
Published: December 2023

Recombinant canine granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rcG-CSF) was administered to clinically normal dogs, cyclic-hematopoietic dogs, and dogs undergoing autologous bone marrow transplantation, to determine whether rcG-CSF could be used to stimulate wbc production and function in normal and neutropenic dogs. To the normal dogs, rcG-CSF was administered by sc injection at rates of 1 μg/kg of body weight, q 12 h; 2 μg/kg, q 12 h; or 5 μg/kg, q 12 h. A significant dose-dependent increase in the wbc count resulted from the stimulation of bone marrow progenitor cells. The increased wbc count was characterized by mature neutrophilia and monocytosis. Neutrophil myeloperoxidase and phagocytic activity were normal in rcG-CSF-treated normal dogs, demonstrating the production of normal functional neutrophils in response to rcG-CSF treatment.

Recombinant canine G-CSF prevented neutropenia and associated clinical signs but did not completely eliminate the cycling of neutrophils in cyclic-hematopoietic dogs when it was administered at rates of 1 μg/kg, q 12 h, and 2.5 μg/kg, q 12 h. The time to bone marrow reconstitution was not decreased in dogs treated with rcG-CSF at a rate of 2.5 μ/kg, q 12 h, for 13 days following autologous bone marrow transplantation. On the basis of our findings, we suggest that treatment with rcG-CSF is an effective way to stimulate myelopoiesis in dogs, but that the dose of rcG-CSF required to stimulate wbc production will vary depending on the cause of neutropenia. Recombinant canine G-CSF should be useful in stimulating production and maintaining function of wbc for treatment of clinical diseases seen commonly in veterinary practice.
Respiratory and cardiopulmonary arrest in dogs and cats: 265 cases (1986-1991)
Authors: Wingfield Wayne E. , Van Pelt Deborah R.
Published: December 2023

Outcomes of cardiopulmonary arrest and resuscitation in clinically affected dogs and cats have not been adequately studied. We examined the records from 200 dogs and 65 cats that had received cardiopulmonary resuscitation for respiratory or cardiopulmonary arrest; none of the animals had been anesthetized or intubated at the time of arrest, and all had been hospitalized in a veterinary critical care facility. Cardiopulmonary arrest was found to be more common than respiratory arrest in dogs and cats. Hospital discharge rates for animals with cardiopulmonary arrest ranged from 4.1% for dogs to 9.6% for cats, and were consistent with those reported from studies of human beings with cardiopulmonary arrest. Hospital discharge rates for dogs and cats with respiratory arrest were 28% and 58.3%, respectively.
Estimation of the sensitivity and specificity of the agar gel immunodiffusion test for bovine leukemia virus: 1,296 cases (1982-1989)
Authors: Monke Donald R. , Rohde Ronald F. , Hueston William D. , Milburn Robert J.
Published: December 2023

A retrospective study of the results of 12,549 agar gel immunodiffusion tests for bovine leukemia virus, conducted on 1,296 dairy bulls over an 8-year period, was performed to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of the test. The number of tests performed on each bull ranged from 5 to 35, with a mean of 9.7 tests per bull.

Bulls were categorized by their agar gel immunodiffusion test responses; 1,069 (82.5%) were non-infected and 227 (17.5%) were infected. Eighteen false-positive results were reported from the noninfected bulls. Test specificity was estimated to be 99.8%. Thirty-one false-negative results were reported from the infected bulls. Test sensitivity was estimated to be 98.5%.

Fifty-six bulls had 1 or more positive responses when < 6 months old. In 26 (46%), these results were thought to be attributable to colostral immunity.
Meningitis in neonatal calves: 32 cases (1983-1990)
Authors: Green Sherril L. , Smith Laura L.
Published: December 2023

Case records of 32 neonatal calves with the antemortem diagnosis of meningitis were reviewed. Mean age at admission was 6 days (range, 11 hours to 30 days), and the most common concurrent clinical problem was diarrhea (16/32). Twenty-seven of the calves were available for necropsy. At postmortem, there was evidence of septicemia in 22 (81%) of these calves. Escherichia coli was the organism most frequently isolated (11/16; 69%) from the cns.

The major clinical signs of cns disturbance observed over the course of hospitalization were lethargy, recumbency, anorexia, loss of suckle reflex, and coma. Leukocytosis and a left shift was evident in 11 of 15 (73%) calves. Concurrent metabolic problems that could have aggravated the cns disturbance included hyperkalemia and respiratory acidosis. Analysis cerebrospinal of fluid from 22 of the calves, revealed pleocytosis, xanthochromia, turbidity, and high total protein concentration. Cytologically, neutrophils predominated in the csf in calves with acute disease. Mononuclear cells dominated in calves with chronic disease. Microscopically, bacteria were evident in 10 of 22 (45%) of the antemortem csf samples and bacteria were isolated from slightly more than half (11/19) of the specimens subjected to microbial culturing. Escherichia coli was the agent most frequently isolated from the csf. Two of the 9 E coli isolates were resistant to trimethoprim potentiated sulfonamide drugs and all (4/4) of the csf E coli isolates tested for susceptibility to triple-sulfonamide drugs were resistant.

Twenty-seven of the 32 calves died or were euthanatized within 2.43 days after hospitalization. Other conditions identified at necropsy were: rabies (1 calf), lumbar vertebrae fracture (1 calf), birth-related asphyxial injury (1 calf), and severe brain edema attributed to hypernatremia. The 5 remaining calves were discharged from the hospital, but later died or were euthanatized because of related complications during the convalescent period, and were not available for necropsy.
Cystine-containing urinary calculi in dogs: 102 cases (1981-1989)
Authors: Case Lisa C. , Ling Gerald V. , Franti Charles E. , Ruby Annette L. , Stevens Fredric , Johnson Deedra L.
Published: December 2023

One hundred and seven cystine-containing urinary calculi from 1 female and 101 male dogs were analyzed. Cystine-containing calculi accounted for 2% (107 of 5,375) of all canine urinary calculi submitted to the urinary stone analysis laboratory from July 1981 through December 1989. Male dogs that formed cystine calculi were compared with 3 other canine populations to determine whether certain breeds were apparently at increased or decreased risk for cystine calculus formation. In one or more of 3 population comparisons, significantly increased risk of cystine calculus formation was found in Mastiffs, Australian Cattle Dogs, English Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Bullmastiffs, Newfoundlands, Dachshunds, Basenjis, Australian Shepherd Dogs, Scottish Deerhounds, Staffordshire Terriers, Miniature Pinschers, pitbull terriers, Welsh Corgis, Silky Terriers, and Bichon Frises. Significantly low risk of cystine calculus formation was found in German Shepherd Dogs, Poodles, Schnauzers, and mixed-breed dogs.
Description and evaluation of the influence of veterinary presence on the use of antibiotics and sulfonamides in dairy herds
Authors: Kaneene John B. , Miller RoseAnn
Published: December 2023

A longitudinal study was conducted over 2 years to identify types of antibiotics and sulfonamides used in Michigan dairy herds for disease prevention and treatment, to determine patterns of use of antibiotics and sulfonamides by herd size and animal age group, and to determine the influence of veterinary presence during diagnosis on the types of antimicrobials used for disease treatments.

In order of frequency, the most commonly used preventive antibiotic and sulfonamides were penicillins, tetracyclines, aminoglycosides, and cephalosporins, making up over 86% of all antimicrobials used for disease prevention. The most commonly used therapeutic antibiotics and sulfonamides were penicillins, tetracyclines, aminoglycosides, and sulfonamides, making up over 81% of all antimicrobial drugs used for disease treatment. Cows received the greatest number of drugs, followed by calves (cattle from birth to weaning). Young stock (cattle from weaning to first calving) received the lowest number of drugs. All herds had similar patterns of drug use for the 3 age groups, regardless of herd size.

With the exception of polymyxin and chloramphenicol, producers used antibiotics on their own more than with a veterinarian present or on the advice of a veterinarian. Overall, veterinary presence was significantly associated with increased use of tetracyclines, sulfonamides, and nitrofurans, and decreased use of penicillins and aminoglycosides. Implications for drug residue prevention strategies are discussed, with emphasis on the role of the practicing veterinarian.
Survey for drug-resistant gastrointestinal nematodes in 13 commercial sheep flocks
Authors: Uhlinger Christine , Fleming Sherrill , Moncol Dan
Published: December 2023

The prevalence of drug-resistant ovine parasites in the United States has not been widely reported. Thirteen flocks, typical of commercial sheep production units, were selected for survey. Four anthelmintics (fenbendazole, ivermectin, pyrantel pamoate, and levamisole) were tested for their ability to reduce herd mean pretreatment fecal egg count. If a properly dosed and administered drug failed to reduce herd mean pretreatment fecal egg count by 80%, it was considered ineffective in that flock, and the presence of parasites resistant to that drug was inferred.

Fenbendazole administration changed pretreatment fecal egg counts by +9% to −100%. On the basis of the aforementioned definition, drug resistance existed in 6 of 13 flocks. Posttreatment larval culture indicated that Haemonchus contortus survived administration of fenbendazole. Levamisole, pyrantel pamoate, and ivermectin reduced pretreatment fecal egg count by −83% to −100%; resistance to these products was not evident in the flocks surveyed.
Clinical findings in cats with dilated cardiomyopathy and relationship of findings to taurine deficiency
Authors: Pion Paul D. , Kittleson Mark D. , Thomas William P. , Skiles Mary L. , Rogers Quinton R.
Published: December 2023

Between October 1986 and September 1988, 37 cats with moderate to severe idiopathic myocardial failure (dilated cardiomyopathy) were evaluated prospectively. Low plasma taurine concentration and diet history including foods that can cause taurine deficiency were documented in most of the cats. Comparison with a retrospectively studied population of 33 cats with dilated cardiomyopathy diagnosed between 1980 and 1986 demonstrated that the clinical and historical findings in the 33 retrospectively studied cats were similar to those in the 37 cats studied prospectively. Clinical findings in the 2 groups were also similar to findings previously reported in the literature. Because clinical findings and diet history were similar in the prospective and retrospective groups, we believe that many cats in the latter group had diet-induced taurine deficiency. These findings support the conclusion that most cases of dilated cardiomyopathy in cats have a common etiopathogenesis related to diet and as such are preventable.
Renal transplantation for treatment of end-stage renal failure in cats
Authors: Gregory C. R. , Gourley I. M. , Kochin E. J. , Broaddus T. W.
Published: December 2023

Renal transplantation was performed as treatment of end-stage renal failure in 23 cats. Twenty-two cats had chronic renal disease and 1 cat had acute renal disease associated with ethylene glycol-induced toxicosis. Sixteen cats were discharged from the hospital. Nine survived a mean of 8.4 ± 6.5 months, and 7 cats continue to survive at the time of this report (mean 12.6 months). Seven cats died within 2 weeks of surgery. All renal allografts were obtained from unrelated blood-crossmatch-compatible donors. No deaths were attributable to acute renal allograft rejection, demonstrating the successful maintenance of renal allografts by use of cyclosporine and prednisolone immunosuppression in cats.
Milk production, water consumption, and somatic cell count responses of cows subject to one to two volts of alternating current
Authors: Southwick Lee H. , Wilson David J. , Sears Philip M.
Published: December 2023

A dairy farm located in central New York was visited because of complaints of electrical shock in the farmhouse shower and the milk house sink. As much as 2 volts AC of potential difference was measured between the waterline and the cow platform (cow-contact voltage). Voltage was coming from the primary neutral wire. The farm's electrical service was modified so that the farmstead could be connected or disconnected from the primary neutral wire at 2-week intervals for 12 weeks. When connected to the primary neutral wire, voltage between waterline and floor ranged between 0 and 1.8 volts, producing estimated current flow through cows of 3.6 to 4.9 mA; when disconnected from primary neutral wire, voltage between waterline and floor was < 0.1 volt. There was no difference in mean milk production, bulk tank milk somatic cell count, or water consumption among periods when cows were exposed or unexposed to voltage. Despite statistical nonsignificance, the values for somatic cell count were lower and water consumption was higher when cows were exposed to voltage than when they were not.
Morbidity and mortality in pups from pet stores and private sources: 968 cases (1987-1988)
Authors: Hird David W. , Ruble Randall P. , Reagor Stephen G. , Cronkhite Pamila K. , Johnson Michael W.
Published: December 2023

Morbidity (≥ 1 disease condition) for pups sold from 3 pet stores from January 1987 through December 1988 ranged from 54 to 68%. In 1 store, morbidity was higher for store pups, compared with pups originating from private parties, for such disease conditions as “kennel cough,’’ diarrhea, and several species of gastrointestinal parasites. In-store mortality ranged from 5 to 9.5% of pups arriving for sale.
Comparison of recoveries from halothane vs isoflurane anesthesia in horses
Authors: Matthews N. S. , Miller S. M. , Hartsfield S. M. , Slater M. R.
Published: December 2023

Recovery from isoflurane anesthesia was shorter, with no difference in quality, compared with halothane anesthesia in 2 groups of horses. In 1 group, 12 horses scheduled for elective arthroscopy were randomly assigned to receive halothane or isoflurane for maintenance of anesthesia during surgery. In the other group, 6 horses received anesthesia only, on 2 occasions, with halothane on 1 occasion, and isoflurane on the other. Difference in the quality of recovery was not seen between isoflurane and halothane anesthesia in either group. In the group that had surgery, recovery to sternal position was significantly shorter when isoflurane was used. In the group not treated surgically, recovery to sternal and standing positions was significantly shorter with isoflurane.
Identification and eradication of bovine viral diarrhea virus in a persistently infected dairy herd
Authors: Bezek D. M. , Mechor G. D.
Published: December 2023

A milking herd consisting of 55 Holstein cows had experienced abortions in several cows, as well as congenital malformations in 1 newborn calf. Bovine viral diarrhea virus was isolated from blood mononuclear cell samples obtained from several cattle, documenting 1 acute infection and 8 persistently infected carriers identified by clinical appearance and laboratory testing. Initial suspicion of persistently infected status in some, but not all animals, was facilitated by poor growth rates in some calves. Virus isolation was performed on transtracheal wash fluid obtained from acutely and persistently infected cattle with respiratory tract infection. We describe the measures taken to identify and characterize the infecting virus strain, and the series of actions taken to identify and eliminate persistently infected carriers in a herd experiencing several related problems that were shown to be caused by bovine viral diarrhea virus.
Induced transplacental transmission of Neospora caninum in cattle
Authors: Dubey J. P. , Lindsay D. S. , Anderson M. L. , Davis S. W. , Shen S. K.
Published: December 2023

Three Jersey cows were inoculated sc and IM with 26 million Neospora caninum tachyzoites at 129 (cow 1), 126 (cow 2), and 81 (cow 3) days after mating. Cows remained clinically normal for at least 1 month after inoculation of N caninum. Cow 1 was euthanatized 32 days after inoculation because of gangrenous mastitis. Cow 1 had a live fetus with no gross lesions; however, microscopic lesions were seen in the fetus and consisted of severe nonsuppurative necrotizing encephalitis of the cerebral white matter. Neospora caninum was identified in lesions by staining with anti-N caninum serum in an immunohistochemical test, by bioassays in mice, and by inoculation of bovine monocyte cultures with fetal tissue homogenate. Neither N caninum nor lesions were associated with infection with the protozoon identified in tissues of cow 1. Cows 2 and 3 aborted small autolysed fetuses 101 and 74 days, respectively, after inoculation with N caninum; the fetuses and attached placenta were unsuitable for laboratory investigations. Cows 2 and 3 remained clinically normal 4 months after abortion. Results of this study indicated that N caninum can be transmitted transplacentally in cattle.
Pituitary tumor size, neurologic signs, and relation to endocrine test results in dogs with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism: 43 cases (1980-1990)
Authors: Kipperman Barry S. , Feldman Edward C. , Dybdal Noel O. , Nelson Richard W.
Published: December 2023

Pituitary neoplasm was identified in 43 dogs with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism via necropsy (n = 33), diagnostic imaging with computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (n = 5), or diagnostic imaging and necropsy (n = 5). All dogs had clinical signs and clinicopathologic test results typical of hyperadrenocorticism. Thirty-seven dogs had grossly visible pituitary tumors, and 6 dogs had microscopic pituitary tumors. Fifteen dogs had developed neurologic signs typical of those resulting from an enlarging pituitary mass. Twenty-three dogs had pituitary tumors ≥ 1 cm in diameter. Provocative testing of the pituitary-adrenocortical axis was performed on all dogs.

Dogs with grossly visible pituitary tumors and dogs with neurologic signs had Significantly (P < 0.05) higher mean plasma endogenous acth concentrations, compared with values from dogs with microscopic tumors and dogs without neurologic signs, respectively. Dogs with grossly visible pituitary tumors and dogs with tumors ≥ 1 cm in diameter had Significantly (P < 0.05) lower adrenocortical responsiveness to exogenous acth, compared with dogs with microscopic pituitary tumors and dogs with tumors < 1 cm in diameter, respectively. Despite these differences, there was overlap between test results among dogs. On the basis of endocrine test results, it would appear difficult to distinguish dogs with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism and large pituitary tumors from those with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism and microscopic pituitary tumors prior to onset of neurologic signs.
Effects of limited food consumption on the incidence of hip dysplasia in growing dogs
Authors: Kealy R. D. , Olsson S. E. , Monti K. L. , Lawler D. F. , Biery D. N. , Helms R. W. , Lust G. , Smith G. K.
Published: December 2023

Forty-eight 8-week-old Labrador Retrievers were allotted to 2 groups of 24 dogs each; 1 group was fed ad libitum and the other group was given 25% less of the same feed until the dogs were 2 years old. Radiography of the hip joints was done when the dogs were 30, 42, 54, 78, and 104 weeks old. Subluxation was measured by the Norberg angle on radiographs made with the dog in the standard (extended limb) position. Independent of age at which the radiography was done, there was less subluxation of the femoral heads in the limit-fed dogs. Using the Swedish method of hip joint evaluation on the same radiographs, it was found that fewer dogs on limited food intake had signs of hip dysplasia.

Radiographs done when dogs were 2 years old, for all the methods used (Norberg angle in standard and frog-limb position, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals [ofa] score, and the Swedish score), revealed less hip dysplasia (less joint subluxation and less degenerative joint disease) in the limit-fed dogs. Using the ofa method, 7 of the 24 limit-fed dogs and 16 of the 24 ad libitum-fed dogs were diagnosed as having hip dysplasia. Similarly, using the Swedish method, 5 of the 24 limit-fed dogs and 18 of the 24 ad libitum- fed dogs were diagnosed as having hip dysplasia. The food-intake-related differences were significant both for the ofa score and for the Swedish score. There was a significant correlation between the Norberg angle measured on radiographs made with the dog in the standard position when it was 30 weeks old and the result obtained when the dog was 2 years old by the ofa and Swedish methods. The findings support the clinical recommendation to avoid overfeeding of growing dogs, particularly in breeds prone to canine hip dysplasia.
Cutaneous actinomycosis and nocardiosis in dogs: 48 cases (1980-1990)
Authors: Kirpensteijn Jolie , Fingland Roger B.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 48 dogs with cutaneous actinomycosis or nocardiosis were reviewed. Male, large-breed dogs kept outdoors were overrepresented. The mean age at admission was 3.6 years. Cutaneous swelling (68%), abscesses (65%), draining tracts (48%), fever (36%), and signs of pain (13%) were the most common clinical findings. The cervicofacial area was affected in 48% of the dogs. Abdominal and thoracic wall involvement was less common. Leukocytosis, neutrophilia with left shift, monocytosis, and hyperglobulinemia were common. The diagnosis was confirmed by cytologic examination, bacteriologic culture, or histologic examination. Gram-positive filamentous bacteria were seen in 69% of the fine needle aspirates and in 50% of the biopsy specimens. Actinomyces spp were isolated from cutaneous lesions in 27 (60%) dogs. Nocardia asteroides was isolated from 1 dog. Treatment consisted of surgical debridement, drainage, and administration of antibiotics in 29 dogs (group A) and antibiotics alone in 13 dogs (group B). The infection redeveloped in 10 (42%) group-A dogs and 6 (60%) group-B dogs. Of the 10 group-A dogs with recurrent infection, 6 had resolution after a second surgery and 4 were euthanatized. Of the 6 group-B dogs, 1 had resolution after surgery, 4 were euthanatized or died because of persistent disease, and 1 had an unresolved infection. The combination of surgery and antibiotic treatment appeared to be superior to antibiotic treatment alone in resolving cutaneous Actinomyces and Nocardia infections.
Comparison of lidocaine, xylazine, and xylazine/lidocaine for caudal epidural analgesia in horses
Authors: Grubb T. L. , Riebold T. W. , Huber M. J.
Published: December 2023

Caudal epidural analgesia was achieved in 6 adult horses on 3 successive occasions at weekly intervals by injection of lidocaine, xylazine, and a combination of lidocaine/xylazine through indwelling epidural catheters. Analgesia was defined as a lack of response to pinprick and hemostat pressure in the skin of the perineal area. A significant (P < 0.05) difference was not found for time of onset of analgesia between lidocaine (4.3 ± 0.8 minutes, mean ± SEM) and the lidocaine/xylazine combination (5.3 ± 1.3 minutes). Time to onset of analgesia after administration of xylazine was significantly (P < 0.05) longer (32.0 ± 3.4 minutes) than that for either of the other 2 treatments. Duration of analgesia was significantly (P < 0.05) longer for the combination (329.8 ± 6.2 minutes) than for either drug used alone (lidocaine, 87.2 ± 7.5 minutes; xylazine, 204.2 ± 12.9 minutes). Pulse and respiratory rates were not significantly altered by any of the drugs. Neurologic sequelae were not clinically apparent after administration of the drugs or after chronic epidural catheterization.
Idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease in dogs and cats: 84 cases (1987-1990)
Authors: Jergens Albert E. , Moore Frances M. , Haynes Joseph S. , Miles Kristina G.
Published: December 2023

Idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease was the diagnosis for 58 dogs and 26 cats, with signs of persistent gastroenteritis, failed responses to dietary trials, and histologic evidence of cellular infiltrates unrelated to other causes of gastrointestinal tract inflammation. Clinical signs of large intestinal dysfunction, watery diarrhea, vomiting, and anorexia with weight loss were common. Nonspecific hematologic, biochemical, and radiographic abnormalities frequently were observed. Mucosal biopsy specimens, obtained endoscopically, were histologically evaluated for severity of mucosal epithelial damage. Mucosal erythema, friability, enhanced granularity, and ulceration or erosion were the predominant endoscopic lesions. Inflammatory bowel disease lesions of moderate severity predominated in the stomach, duodenum, and colon. Lymphocytic/plasmacytic infiltrates were limited to the lamina propria in biopsy specimens from all regions of the gastrointestinal tract. Inflammatory bowel disease commonly is associated with chronic gastroenteritis in dogs and cats.
Rabies surveillance in the United States during 1991
Authors: Krebs John W. , Holman Robert C. , Hines Urhonda , Strine Tara W. , Mandel Eric J. , Childs James E.
Published: December 2023

In 1991, 49 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico reported 6,972 cases of rabies in nonhuman animals and 3 cases in human beings to the Centers for Disease Control. Ninety-one percent (6,354 cases) were wild animals, whereas 8.9% (618 cases) were domestic species. The total number of reported cases of rabies increased 42.9% over that of 1990 (4,881 cases), with most of the increase resulting from continued spread of the epizootic of rabies in raccoons in the mid-Atlantic and northeastern states. Large increases in cases of rabies in animals were reported from Connecticut (200 cases in 1991, compared with 3 in 1990, an increase of 6,567%), Delaware (197 cases in 1991, compared with 44 in 1990, an increase of 348%), New York (1,030 cases in 1991, compared with 242 in 1990, an increase of 326%), and New Jersey (994 cases in 1991, compared with 469 in 1990, an increase of 112%). Other noteworthy increases were reported by Wyoming (96.4%), Texas (69.7%), California (41.3%), Oklahoma (33.1%), Minnesota (31.4%), Georgia (26.7%), and Maryland (23.7%). Hawaii reported 1 imported case of rabies in a bat. Only 16 states reported decreases in rabies in animals in 1991, compared with 30 in 1990. Pennsylvania and Iowa reported decreases of 40.6% and 27.4%, respectively. Rhode Island was the only state that did not report a case of rabies in 1991.
Congenital Neospora infection in calves born from cows that had previously aborted Neospora-infected fetuses: Four cases (1990-1992)
Authors: Barr Bradd C. , Conrad Patricia A. , Breitmeyer Richard , Sverlow Karen , Anderson Mark L. , Reynolds James , Chauvet Anne E. , Dubey J.P. , Ardans Alex A.
Published: December 2023

Four dairy cows that had been successfully rebred following fetal Neospora infection and abortion were identified from 2 drylot dairies. All 4 cows had uncomplicated pregnancies with the birth of 5 full-term calves. The calves all had high precolostral serum IgG antibodies. The precolostral antibodies to Neospora sp as determined by indirect fluorescent antibody test ranged from 5,120 to 20,480, compared with maternal serum and colostral antibody titers from 320 to 1,280. Two calves had mild neurologic limb deficits. Three calves had mild nonsuppurative encephalomyelitis and Neospora organisms were found in the CNS of 3 calves. Findings indicate that repeat transplacental Neospora infections occur in cows. Additionally, calves born from cows with a history of Neospora fetal infection and abortion may have congenital Neospora infections and/or neurologic dysfunctions at birth. The Neospora indirect fluorescent antibody test appears to be a useful antemortem test for detection of calves exposed in utero to Neospora organisms.
Lungworm infection in a sheep flock in Maryland
Authors: Mansfield L. S. , Gamble H. R. , Baker J. S. , Lichtenfels J. R.
Published: December 2023

First-stage larvae of Protostrongylus rufescens were detected in the feces of a ram with diarrhea, anorexia, weight loss, and mucopurulent nasal discharge. Subsequently, a survey was initiated in the experimental sheep flocks maintained at the Agricultural Research Service's Helminthic Diseases Laboratory in Beltsville, Md to determine the extent and effect of infection with the parasite. Five of 31 ewes and 4 of 16 rams were found to be infected with the lungworm. Clinical signs of infection, which ranged from mild to severe, included diarrhea, weight loss, and respiratory distress. Natural transmission of the parasite to parasite-naive lambs grazing on pasture occurred during the course of this study. Three lambs born to infected ewes during this study were not infected, suggesting that there is no vertical transmission. Additionally, cattle grazing the same pastures as infected sheep were not infected with the parasite. Results of this study indicated that Protostrongylus rufescens can cause serious disease in domestic sheep in the United States and should be considered as a differential diagnosis in sheep with nonspecific respiratory tract signs.
Hyperadrenocorticism caused by bilateral adrenocortical neoplasia in dogs: Four cases (1983-1988)
Authors: Ford Sara L. , Feldman Edward C. , Nelson Richard W.
Published: December 2023

Hyperadrenocorticism caused by bilateral adrenocortical neoplasia was diagnosed in 4 dogs. Three dogs had bilateral adrenocortical adenomas, and 1 dog had bilateral adrenocortical carcinomas. The history, physical findings, clinicopathologic abnormalities, and results of acth stimulation and low-dose dexamethasone suppression tests were compatible with diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism. Adrenocortical neoplasia was differentiated from pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism on the basis of a combination of test results, including lack of suppression of plasma cortisol after being given a high dose dexamethasone (n = 4), undetectable (< 20 pg/ml) plasma endogenous acth concentration (n = 4), identification of a single mineralized adrenal mass by abdominal radiography (n = 2) and abdominal ultrasonography (n = 1), and identification of bilateral nonmineralized adrenal masses by ultrasonography (n = 1).

A left adrenal mass was excised from 1 dog. Clinical signs persisted and administration of mitotane was initiated. One dog was treated only with mitotane. Treatment with ketoconazole was attempted in 2 dogs. All dogs died or were euthanatized because of persistent hyperadrenocorticism. Necropsy and histologic evaluation of the pituitary and adrenal tissue confirmed bilateral adrenocortical neoplasia in all dogs. Bilateral adrenocortical neoplasia should be considered as an uncommon, but possible, cause of bilaterally large adrenal glands in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism.
Survey of state veterinarians and state veterinary diagnostic laboratories for selenium deficiency and toxicosis in animals
Authors: Edmondson A. J. , Norman B. B. , Suther D.
Published: December 2023

Surveys were performed in which the state veterinarian and the major state veterinary diagnostic laboratories in every state were asked about selenium (Se) deficiency and toxicosis in livestock and wildlife in their state. Selenium-deficiency diseases were diagnosed in 46 states and were reported to be an important livestock problem in regions of 37 states; deficiencies were diagnosed in wildlife in 10 states. Natural Se toxicosis was a rare problem, with only 7 states reporting naturally developing Se toxicosis. Oversupplementation with Se was reported as a cause of toxicosis in 15 states. Toxicoses in aquatic environments were reported from 4 states; in all cases, high-Se content in the water had resulted from agricultural irrigation or natural rainfall causing leaching of Se from high-Se soils. Current amounts of supplemental Se that can be fed to our major food-producing animals are being reviewed by the FDA because of speculation of potential environmental problems caused by Se supplementation in animals. Amounts of supplemental Se allowed in the western United States (states west of and including North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas) are proposed by the FDA to have more potential for environmental Se enrichment and toxicosis. This premise was not supported by our data. Selenium supplementation in domestic livestock was not involved in wildlife toxicosis found by these surveys.
Echinocytosis in horses: 54 cases (1990)
Authors: Geor Raymond J. , Lund Elizabeth M. , Weiss Douglas J.
Published: December 2023

Retrospective review of CBC and serum chemical data from 124 horses admitted to the veterinary teaching hospital over a 9-month period (Feb 1, 1990 to Oct 31, 1990) indicated that 54 horses had echinocytosis (prevalence = 44%). In horses with echinocytosis, the most frequent diagnosis was colitis (23 horses; 43%). Odds ratios (measure of association) were calculated to determine the association of echinocytosis with specific hematologic and biochemical abnormalities. When evaluated in a multivariate model, low serum sodium concentration (< 136 mEq/L) was the only variable significantly associated with the incidence of echinocytosis. Within the group of 54 horses with echinocytosis, hyponatremia (35 horses; 65%), hypochloremia (35 horses; 65%), low total carbon dioxide concentration (35 horses; 65%), hypoosmolality (30 horses; 55%), and hypocalcemia (22 horses; 41%) were the most common biochemical abnormalities. It was concluded that hyponatremia was associated with increased incidence of echinocytosis. It was suggested that systemic electrolyte depletion might be involved in the induction of echinocyte formation.
Field trial of four cowside antibiotic-residue screening tests
Authors: Sischo W. M. , Burns C. M.
Published: December 2023

Four commercially available screening tests for antibiotic residues in milk were evaluated for their ability to correctly identify the antibiotic status of cows. A field trial, which included 199 cows from 2 herds, was conducted. Sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios for a positive test result were calculated by using the Bacillus stearothermophilus var calidolactis disk assay as the reference test. The relationship of risk factors to the probability of a false-positive result for each screening test was modeled by use of unconditional logistic regression. The risk factors evaluated in these models were loge somatic cell count (scc), intramammary infection, herd, milk appearance, time milk sample frozen before tested, days in lactation, parity, and manufacturer's lot number. The risk factors loge scc and intramammary infection were forced into all models. The overall specificities for the 4 tests ranged from 0.78 to 0.95, whereas likelihood ratios for a positive test result ranged from 4.54 to 20.0. When the confounding of cofactors was controlled in the logistic model, there was a positive effect of loge scc on the probability of a false-positive result for 3 of the screening tests, that is, for incremental increases in loge scc, there was an increasing likelihood for a false-positive result. In some of the tests, parity and intramammary infection also influenced the likelihood of a false-positive result.

The goal of cowside testing is to assist in the production of high-quality, antibiotic residue-free milk from dairies. To be consistent with the intent of a quality assurance program, cowside screening would be used only on cows recently treated with antibiotics and only after appropriate milk withholding times had been followed. In this situation where the probability of detecting antibiotic residue is low, the diagnostic reliability of a negative test result is likely to be high for all of the evaluated screening tests, but the reliability of a positive test result may be questionable. The reliability of the positive test result is problematic for the dairy industry. False-positive results lead to unnecessary waste of milk and economic loss, and could cause unwarranted criticism of the dairy industry. It is essential that the dairy industry demand that appropriate evaluations of these tests be accomplished, and limits on their appropriate use be established.
Basal sesamoidean fractures in horses: 57 cases (1980-1991)
Authors: Parente Eric J. , Richardson Dean W. , Spencer Pam
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 57 horses admitted between 1980 and 1991 because of basal sesamoidean fractures were evaluated. Radiographic measurements of fragment size and fracture characteristics were recorded to determine their relationship to outcome. A successful outcome was assessed on the basis of the ability to return to racing, ability to race more than one time, and ability to finish first, second, or third. Any change in racing class also was assessed.

There was a significant (P < 0.001) overrepresentation of Thoroughbreds, compared with other breeds in the hospital population. Fractures of the forelimbs accounted for 50 of the 57 fractures, and the right front medial sesamoid was affected significantly (P < 0.0001) more frequently than other proximal sesamoids.

Fifty-nine percent of the horses returned to race at least 1 time regardless of treatment, and 41% finished first, second, or third. Horses with smaller fragments (shorter dorsopalmar length) tended to do better than horses with larger fragments. Horses without comminuted fractures tended to do better than horses with comminuted fractures, and horses with fragments only mildly (< 3 mm) displaced had significantly (P < 0.05) better outcomes than did horses with severe displacement of fragments. Only 19% of the horses with moderate (> 3 mm) displacement of fragments raced more than once, whereas 63% of horses with mild displacement of fragments returned to race more than once.

Seventy-three percent of the horses that had the fragment removed surgically returned to race, and 57% dropped in class. Only 48% of the horses that did not have the fragment removed returned to race, and 87% dropped in class. Mean time for return to racing was 8.6 months for horses that had the fragment removed, and 6.5 months for those that did not.
Effects of a high-density intramammary device on mammary glands, production, and reproductive performance in dairy cows
Authors: Goodger William J. , Farver T. , Galland J. , Jasper D. , Pelletier J.
Published: December 2023

A clinical field trial was undertaken to determine the influence of an intramammary device (imd) on environmental mastitis and production. On 4 central California dairies, 200 Holstein first-lactation cows were randomly assigned to 2 groups. Cows in the treatment group were fitted with an imd, and cows in the control group were not. The incidence of clinical mastitis for the 2 groups was determined during the study period. Bacteriologic monitoring at intervals over 2 lactations (lactation 2 and through 60 days of lactation 3) was used to determine the incidence of subclinical infection. In addition, data were collected to determine whether the groups differed in milk production, butterfat production, postmilking and test-day somatic cell counts, and reproductive efficiency. Total milk production and butterfat production over the 2 lactation periods did not vary significantly between the groups. Also, the groups did not differ in calving-to-conception interval, duration of lactation, calving interval, and calving-to-first service interval. Cows with imd were significantly less likely to develop clinical mastitis (5% vs 13%) than control cows. The imd did not appear to affect subclinical infection rates (minor pathogens only) except at day 300 of lactation 2 and at day 10 of lactation 3, when prevalence was greater in the cows with imd. The minor pathogens were predominately (80%) coagulase-negative staphylococci. It was unusual to have coagulase-negative staphylococci in the same quarter at 2 consecutive samplings, prompting the speculation that during lactation, the duration of coagulase-negative staphylococci infection is short (resolves without intervention). However, new infections developed in other quarters, thus maintaining a consistent quarter prevalence throughout the lactation. The imd induced a significant increase in postmilking somatic cell count, compared with results from control cows, and test-day somatic cell count had a more modest increase in cows with imd, compared with previous studies.
Comparison of enzyme-labeled immunosorbent assay and particle concentration fluorescence immunoassay with standard serologic methods and bacteriologic culture for detection of Brucella sp-infected cows in herds with brucellosis
Authors: Nicoletti Paul , Tanya Vincent
Published: December 2023

Bacteriologic culture of udder secretions and card, rivanol, and complement fixation tests for detection of brucellosis were performed on samples from 828 cows vaccinated with strain 19 in herds with brucellosis. An elisa and a particle concentration fluorescence immunoassay were performed on sera from 560 and 569 cows, respectively.

A field strain of Brucella abortus or strain 19 was isolated from 278 cows. The elisa and the card test had high sensitivity, but low specificity.

Data suggested that there is no advantage to using primary binding assays rather than the simple buffered antigen agglutination procedures to detect cows infected with a field strain of B abortus.
Scintigraphic evaluation of fractures of the distal phalanx in horses: 27 cases (1979-1988)
Authors: Keegan Kevin G. , Twardock A. Robert , Losonsky John M. , Baker Gordon J.
Published: December 2023

Retrospective radiographic and scintigraphic analyses were performed on 27 fractures of the distal phalanx in 25 horses. Location of 99mtechnetium methylene diphosphonate (99mTc-mdp) uptake was compared with fracture line location as seen on radiography. Intensity (intense, moderate, mild) and pattern (focal, diffuse) of 99mTc-mdp uptake was recorded and compared with duration of fracture. Nine horses were monitored during convalescence by obtaining additional scintigraphic views 3 to 68 months after injury.

Palmar scintigraphic views had evidence of focal areas of increased 99mTc-mdp uptake that corresponded to fracture line location as seen on radiography. Lateral scintigraphic views had evidence of diffuse increased uptake. There was a significant (P < 0.01) association between duration of fracture and intensity of uptake, with fractures < 3 months in duration more likely to have intense focal uptake. All fractures < 10 days in duration had intense focal uptake. As fracture age increased, 99mTc-mdp uptake became less intense and more diffuse. Three fractures not evident on radiography had evidence of 99mTc-mdp uptake on scintigraphy. Stall rest resulted in decreased 99mTc-mdp uptake in 6 of 9 horses, but increased uptake was still visible in all horses between 4 and 25 months after injury. The only scintigraphic view without evidence of increased uptake was that obtained from a horse reexamined 68 months after injury.