bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of pneumonia in foals caused by Rhodococcus equi with farm soil geochemistry
Authors: Martens Ronald J. , Cohen Noah D. , Chaffin M. Keith , Waskom Jeffery S.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To quantify and compare geochemical factors in surface soils from horse-breeding farms with horses with pneumonia caused byRhodococcus equi(affected farms) and horse-breeding farms with no history of pneumonia caused byR equi(unaffected farms).

Sample Population—Soil from 24R equi-affected farms and 21 unaffected farms.

Procedure—Equine veterinary practitioners throughout Texas submitted surface soil samples from areas most frequented by foals, onR equiaffected and unaffected horse-breeding farms in their practice. Soil samples were assayed for the following factors: pH, salinity, nitrate, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, sulfur, zinc, iron, manganese, and copper. Median values for all factors were recorded, and differences between affected and unaffected farms were compared.

Results—Significant differences in soil factors were not detected between affected and unaffected farms; hence, there was no association between those factors andR equidisease status of the farms.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—The surface soil factors monitored in this study were not significant risk factors for pneumonia caused byR equi. As such, it is not possible to determine whether foals on a given farm are at increased risk of developing disease caused byR equion the basis of these factors. Data do not support altering surface soil for factors examined, such as alkalinization by applying lime, as viable control strategies forR equi. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:95–98)
Effect of dietary insoluble fiber on control of glycemia in cats with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus
Authors: Nelson Richard W. , Scott-Moncrieff J. Catharine , Feldman Edward C. , DeVries-Concannon Susan E. , Kass Philip H. , Davenport Deborah J. , Kiernan Christine T. , Neal Larry A.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate effects of dietary insoluble fiber on control of glycemia in cats with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus.

Design—Randomized controlled crossover trial.

Animals—16 cats with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus.

Procedure—Cats were fed a diet high in insoluble fiber (HF) containing 12% cellulose (dry-matter basis) or a diet low in insoluble fiber (LF) for 24 weeks; they were fed the other diet for the subsequent 24 weeks. Caloric intake and insulin treatment were adjusted to maintain stable body weight and control of glycemia, respectively. Cats were allowed an adaption period of 6 weeks after initiation of a diet, after which control of glycemia was evaluated at 6-week intervals for 18 weeks. Variables assessed included serum glucose concentration measured during the preprandial state, blood glycated hemoglobin concentration, serum glucose concentration measured at 2-hour intervals for 12 hours beginning at the time of the morning insulin injection, 12-hour mean serum glucose concentration, and mean fluctuation in serum glucose concentration from the 12-hour mean serum glucose concentration.

Results—Mean daily caloric intake, body weight, or daily insulin dosage did not differ significantly between cats when fed HF and LF diets. Mean preprandial serum glucose concentration, most postprandial serum glucose concentrations, and the 12-hour mean serum glucose concentration were significantly lower when cats consumed the HF diet, compared with values when cats consumed the LF diet.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These results support feeding a commercially available diet containing approximately 12% insoluble fiber (dry-matter basis) to cats with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1082–1088)
Laryngeal paralysis in cats: 16 cases (1990–1999)
Authors: Schachter Sara , Norris Carol R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical signs, physical examination findings, radiographic features, and concurrent diseases in cats with laryngeal paralysis, as well as evaluate the outcome of medical or surgical management.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—16 cats.

Procedure—Medical records from January 1990 to April 1999 were examined for cats with laryngeal paralysis. Signalment, clinical signs, physical examination findings, cervical and thoracic radiographic findings, laryngeal examination results, and clinical outcome were reviewed.

Results—No breed or sex predilection was identified in 16 cats with laryngeal paralysis. The most common clinical signs included tachypnea or dyspnea, dysphagia, weight loss, change in vocalization, coughing, and lethargy. Clinical signs were evident for a median of 245 days. Airway obstruction was apparent on cervical and thoracic radiographic views in 9 cats. Examination of the larynx revealed bilateral laryngeal paralysis in 12 cats and unilateral laryngeal paralysis in 4 cats. The 4 cats with unilateral disease were managed with medical treatment, and 3 of these had acceptable long-term outcomes. Seven of 12 cats with bilateral paralysis underwent surgery; procedures performed included left arytenoid tie back, bilateral arytenoid tie back and ventriculocordectomy, and partial left arytenoidectomy. One cat was euthanatized as a result of complications from surgery.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Laryngeal paralysis is an uncommon cause of airway obstruction in cats. Cats with less severe clinical signs (often with unilateral paralysis) may be successfully managed with medical treatment, whereas cats with severe airway obstruction (often with bilateral paralysis) may benefit from surgical intervention.(J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1100–1103)
Sexual harassment in the veterinary academic environment
Authors: MacAllister Carolynn T. , Guglick MaryAnn , Dale Joanna
Published: December 2005

Objective—To survey faculty and house officers of clinical departments of colleges of veterinary medicine (CVM) to identify characteristics of sexual harassment (SH) in the veterinary academic environment, to report the opinions of survey respondents on how SH is being handled, and to determine how the process can be improved at veterinary academic institutions.

Procedure—On the basis of lists obtained from 25 CVM, a survey was mailed to 1,294 academic veterinarians. Four hundred seventy-eight completed surveys were returned.

Results—The prevalence of SH in the population of respondents was 31%. Nonphysical forms of SH were reported 6 times as often as physical forms of harassment, with the most common type reported being offensive sexual comments and unwanted attention. Fear of reprisal was the most prevalent reason cited by respondents for not confronting the harasser. Survey respondents rated the following as very important to improve the system of dealing with SH at their academic institution: guarantee of protection from retaliation, assurance of confidentiality, clear explanation of what will happen to you, and a clearer definition of SH.

Conclusion—A clear definition of SH is the first step in preventing SH. Other cited steps include professional development programs to educate the academic population as to what constitutes SH, inform the entire academic population what the institution's SH policy is, and enforce this policy with sensitivity, fairness, confidentiality, and quick resolve to protect the victim. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1406–1409)
Evaluation of a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for detection of Borrelia burgdorferi exposure in dogs
Authors: Sheets James T. , Rossi Cynthia A. , Kearney Brian J. , Moore George E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the effectiveness of a commercially available ELISA kit for detecting antibodies againstBorrelia burgdorferiindogs.

Sample Population—Banked sera from 440 military working dogs were used for serologic analyses.

Procedure—Serum samples were analyzed for antibodies againstB burgdorferiby use of a commercially available ELISA and subsequently by western blot analysis as a confirmatory test.

Results—Results from the ELISA indicated that 89 (20%) samples were positive for exposure toB burgdorferior canine Lyme disease vaccine, and 351 (80%) were negative. Follow-up testing by western blot analysis indicated that results for 109 (25%) samples were positive and 331 (75%) were negative for exposure. All samples that had positive results on the ELISA also had positive results on western blot analysis (true positives). Of the 351 samples that had negative results on the ELISA, only 331 had negative results on western blot analysis (true negatives). The remaining 20 samples had positive results on western blot analysis. By use of a standard 2 X 2 table, it was determined that the ELISA had a sensitivity of 82%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100%, and negative predictive value of 94%.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—The commercial ELISA kit evaluated in this study appeared to lack adequate sensitivity for detecting all potential cases of borreliosis in dogs. The ELISA was also unable to discriminate natural exposure from exposure attributable to vaccination, which could complicate interpretation of positive results and treatment of dogs with clinical signs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1418–1422)
Comparison of absorptive capacities of original and modified Schirmer tear test strips in dogs
Authors: van der Woerdt Alexandra , Adamcak Alexandra
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare in vitro and in vivo absorptive
capacities of modified Schirmer tear test strips with
those of original strips, and to establish reference values
for use with the modified strips.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—100 dogs.

Procedure—In vitro absorptive capacity was determined
by immersing strips in an irrigating solution for
15 seconds and recording amount of wetting. In vivo
absorptive capacity was determined by placing an original
Schirmer tear test strip in 1 eye and a modified
strip in the other eye of 50 dogs with normal or abnormal
tear production. Time required to wet 10 mm of
each strip was recorded. Measurements were repeated
30 minutes later after reversing which strip was
placed in the left or right eye. Reference values (mean
± SD) were determined by recording the time required
to wet 10 mm of the modified strip in 50 healthy dogs.

Results—Amount of wetting was significantly less
and time required to wet 10 mm was significantly
greater for the modified strip, compared with the original
strip. Reference values determined for the modified
strip were 32 ± 11 seconds in the right eye, 33 ±
11 seconds in the left eye, and 32 ± 10 seconds in
both eyes.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Absorptive
capacities of the original and modified Schirmer tear
test strips were significantly different. Reference values
determined for 1 strip should not be used for the
other strip. (J Am Vet Assoc 2000;216:1576–1577)
Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid from dogs and cats after 24 and 48 hours of storage
Authors: Bienzle Dorothee , McDonnell John J. , Stanton James B.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare differential cell counts and
cell characteristics of CSF samples analyzed immediately
or after storage for 24 and 48 hours at 4 C with
and without the addition of autologous serum.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—36 dogs and 6 cats.

Procedure—CSF samples were collected from the
cerebellomedullary cistern and divided into 250-μl
aliquots. Slides of CSF samples were prepared by use
of cytocentrifugation immediately and after 24 and 48
hours of storage with addition of autologous serum
(final concentrations, 11 and 29%). Differential cell
counts and number of unrecognizable cells were
compared among preparations.

Results—Significant differences in the differential
cell counts were not detected among samples analyzed
before or after storage. Although the number of
unrecognizable cells increased with storage time,
this did not result in a significant effect on cell distribution
or diagnosis. Cells in CSF samples stored with
11% serum more closely resembled cells in fresh
samples than did cells in samples stored with 29%
serum.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—CSF samples
collected at veterinary clinics remote from a diagnostic
laboratory or during nonoperational hours may be
preserved through the addition of autologous serum.
Evaluation of such samples is likely to result in an
accurate diagnosis for at least 48 hours after collection.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2000;216:1761–1764)
Association between postoperative outcome and results of magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography in working dogs with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis
Authors: Jones Jeryl C. , Banfield Catherine M. , Ward Daniel L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether results of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) are associated with postoperative outcome in working dogs with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis.

Design—Prospective cohort study.

Animals—12 dogs treated surgically for degenerative lumbosacral stenosis.

Procedure—Procedure—The lumbosacral vertebral column was examined before surgery by use of MRI and CT and after surgery by use of CT. Outcome, based on performance in standardized training exercises, was assessed 6 months after decompressive surgery. Associations between imaging results and postoperative outcome were determined by use of a Fisher exact test and logistic regression.

Results—None of the dogs were able to perform their duties before surgery. By 6 months after surgery, 8 of 12 dogs had been returned to full active duty. Nerve tissue compression was effectively localized by use of CT and MRI. Significant associations between results of imaging studies and postoperative outcome were not identified.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Surgical intervention is justified in high-performance working dogs with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis. However, results of imaging studies may be less important than clinical or surgical factors for predicting outcome in affected dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1769–1774)
Development of glaucoma after cataract surgery in dogs: 220 cases (1987–1998)
Authors: Biros Daniel J. , Gelatt Kirk N. , Brooks Dennis E. , Kubilis Paul S. , Andrew Stacy E. , Strubbe D. Todd , Whigham Heidi M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To examine postoperative ocular hypertension (POH) and other variables as predictors of the risk of developing glaucoma after cataract surgery in dogs.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—220 dogs that had cataract surgery.

Procedure—Medical records of 220 dogs (346 eyes) that had extracapsular cataract removal or phacoemulsification of cataracts were reviewed. With respect to glaucoma development, 8 variables were analyzed, which included development of POH, breed, sex, age at time of surgery, eye (right vs left), phacoemulsification time, intraocular lens (IOL) placement (yes or no), and stage of cataract development. Eyes developed glaucoma within 6 or 12 months of surgery or did not have signs of glaucoma at least 6 or 12 months after cataract surgery.

Results—Of 346 eyes, 58 (16.8%) developed glaucoma after surgery. At 6 months, 32 of 206 (15.5%) eyes examined had glaucoma; at 12 months, 44 of 153 (28.8%) eyes examined had glaucoma. Median follow-up time was 5.8 months (range, 0.1 to 48 months). Mixed-breed dogs were at a significantly lower risk for glaucoma, compared with other breeds. Eyes with IOL placement were at a significantly lower risk for glaucoma, compared with eyes without IOL placement. Eyes with hypermature cataracts were at a significantly higher risk for glaucoma, compared with eyes with mature or immature cataracts.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Multiple factors appear to contribute to the onset of glaucoma in dogs after cataract surgery. Complications prohibiting IOL placement during cataract surgery may lead to a high risk of glaucoma development. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1780–1786)
Clinical, bacteriologic, serologic, and pathologic features of infections with atypical Taylorella equigenitalis in mares
Authors: Katz Jonathan B. , Evans Lawrence E. , Hutto David L. , Schroeder-Tucker Linda C. , Carew Ann M. , Donahue J. Michael , Hirsh Dwight C.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To characterize clinical, serologic, bacteriologic,
cytologic, and pathologic endometrial responses
of mares to 2 donkey-origin atypical bacterial isolates
resembling Taylorella equigenitalis.

Design—Prospective in vivo study.

Animals—10 healthy mares.

Procedure—Mares in estrus (2/group) were inoculated
by intrauterine infusion with 2 isolates of classic T
equigenitalis or 2 isolates of atypical Taylorella sp or
were sham-inoculated. Bacteriologic, serologic, clinical,
uterine, cytologic, and pathologic endometrial
responses were assessed 4, 11, 21, 35, and 63 days
after inoculation and on day 111 in mares with positive
culture results on day 63.

Results—One atypical isolate failed to cause infection.
The second atypical isolate and both classic T
equigenitalis isolates induced similar transient metritis
and cervicitis. Both classic isolates and 1 atypical
isolate induced anti-T equigenitalis complement-fixing
antibodies detectable at day 11. Classic isolates and
an atypical isolate provoked intense neutrophilic
endometritis followed by a resolving, subacute, neutrophilic-mononuclear endometrial response. The
atypical isolate and classic isolates were recovered
from the uterus, clitoral fossa, or clitoral sinus of one
or both exposed mares for as long as 111 days.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Atypical
Taylorella sp infections should be considered as a differential
diagnosis of equine infertility in US-origin
mares, even those not exposed to stallions from
countries where contagious equine metritis occurs.
The origins and prevalence of atypical Taylorella sp
infection in US horses and donkeys are undetermined.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2000;216:1945–1948)
Pneumothorax in horses: 40 cases (1980–1997)
Authors: Boy Mary G. , Sweeney Corinne R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To characterize pneumothorax in horses and to describe clinical signs, diagnostic testing, and clinical outcome of horses with pneumothorax.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—40 horses.

Procedure—Medical records of horses with pneumothorax were reviewed to obtain information on signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnostic testing, treatment, and clinical outcome.

Results—Horses developed pneumothorax secondary to pleuropneumonia (17 horses), open wounds of the thorax (9), closed trauma to the thorax (7), surgery on the upper portion of the respiratory tract (3), and surgery involving the thoracic cavity (1); 3 horses had pneumothorax of unknown cause. Clinical signs included tachypnea, dyspnea, cyanosis, lack of lung sounds on auscultation of the dorsal aspect of the thorax, fever, tachycardia, signs of depression or anxiousness, and cough. Radiography and ultrasonography were useful to definitively diagnose pneumothorax. Pneumothorax was bilateral in 47.5% (19/40) and unilateral in 42.5% (17/40) of horses; designation of unilateral versus bilateral was not recorded in the remaining 4 horses. Horses with pneumothorax secondary to pleuropneumonia more commonly had unilateral pneumothorax (64.7% for unilateral vs 29.4% for bilateral; not specified for 1 horse). Horses with pneumothorax secondary to pleuropneumonia were less likely to survive than horses with pneumothorax secondary to other causes (35.3 vs 69.6% survived, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Pleuropneumonia is an important cause of pneumothorax in horses. Classic clinical signs of pneumothorax may not be evident. Radiography, ultrasonography, or both may be required for diagnosis. Prognosis for survival is better for horses with pneumothorax not associated with pleuropneumonia. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1955–1959)
Relative cost-effectiveness of treatment of feedlot calves with ivermectin versus treatment with a combination of fenbendazole, permethrin, and fenthion
Authors: Guichon P. Timothy , Jim G. Kee , Booker Calvin W. , Schunicht Oliver C. , Wildman Brian K. , Brown Jay R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare growth performance, animal
health characteristics, and carcass characteristics of
feedlot calves treated with ivermectin topically with that
of feedlot calves treated with a combination of fenbendazole
orally and permethrin and fenthion topically.

Design—Clinical trial.

Animals—14,184 British crossbred steer calves
(mean weight, 286 kg [630 lb]) in 30 pens at a commercial
feedlot in Nebraska.

Procedure—On arrival at the feedlot, calves were randomly
assigned to be treated with ivermectin topically
or with a combination of fenbendazole orally and
permethrin and fenthion topically (control). At the
time of assignment to treatment groups, fecal samples
were collected from 5% of the calves. Growth
performance, carcass characteristics, and health information
were recorded.

Results—Geometric mean fecal egg counts at the
time of arrival at the feedlot were not significantly different
between groups. Final weight, weight gain,
average daily gain, and the dry matter intake-to-gain
ratio were significantly improved for calves in the ivermectin
group. The percentage of carcasses classified
as quality grade choice was higher for the ivermectin
group than the control group; however, the percentage
of carcasses classified as yield grade 1 and the
dressing percentage were higher for the control
group than for the ivermectin group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that topical administration of ivermectin to feedlot
calves is relatively more cost-effective than administration
of a combination of fenbendazole orally and
permethrin and fenthion topically. (J Am Vet Med
Assoc 2000;216:1965–1969)
Vertebral scale system to measure heart size in radiographs of cats
Authors: Litster Annette L. , Buchanan James W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine absolute and relative heart size in clinically normal cats by correlating heart size and selected skeletal structures.

Design— Prospective radiographic study.

Animals—100 cats that did not have thoracic radiographic abnormalities.

Procedure—Standardized measurements of the long and short axes of the heart, midthoracic vertebrae, and other structures were made. Measurements were recorded in millimeters and number of thoracic vertebral lengths spanned by each dimension, measured caudally from T4 in a lateral radiograph. The long- and short-axis measurements of the heart, expressed in vertebral lengths, were added to yield vertebral heart size.

Results—Mean ± SD vertebral heart size in lateral radiographs was 7.5 ± 0.3 vertebrae. The long-axis dimension correlated with the length of 3 sternebrae, measured from S2 to S4. The cardiac short-axis dimension correlated moderately with the length of 3.2 vertebrae, measured from T4 to T6. The cardiac short-axis dimension in ventrodorsal radiographs was 3.4 ± 0.25 vertebrae.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The vertebral heart-size method is easy to use, allows objective assessment of heart size, and may be helpful in determining cardiomegaly and comparing heart size in sequential radiographs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:210–214)
Effect of insulin dosage on glycemic response in dogs with diabetes mellitus: 221 cases (1993–1998)
Authors: Hess Rebecka S. , Ward Cynthia R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate glycemic response to insulin treatment in dogs with diabetes mellitus.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—221 dogs with diabetes mellitus.

Procedure—Type and dosage of insulin used, minimum and maximum blood glucose concentrations, time of blood glucose concentration nadir, and optimal duration of action of insulin were determined on the basis of data obtained prior to initial examination at the teaching hospital (127 dogs), at the time of initial examination (212 dogs), at the time a second follow- up blood glucose curve was performed (59 dogs), and at the time of clinical control of diabetes mellitus (83 dogs).

Results—Prior to examination, 69 of 127 dogs (54%) received 1 SC insulin injection daily. Thirty-one dogs (24%) received a high dose of insulin (ie, > 1.5 U/kg [0.7 U/lb] of body weight); 27 of these dogs (87%) received 1 injection/d. Eleven of 16 dogs (69%) that were hypoglycemic (blood glucose concentration < 80 mg/dl) also received 1 injection/d. However, optimal duration of action of insulin was > 12 hours in only 5 of 83 dogs (6%) evaluated at the time diabetes mellitus was clinically controlled. At that time, only 1 dog (1%) received a high dose of insulin, and the dog received 2 injections/d. Moreover, 8 of 10 dogs (80%) with hypoglycemia received 1 injection/d.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Most dogs with diabetes mellitus are clinically regulated with 2 daily insulin injections. Administration of a high dose of insulin or development of hypoglycemia may be more common in diabetic dogs that receive insulin once daily, compared with dogs that receive insulin twice daily. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:217–221)
Mortality rates and causes of death among emaciated cats
Authors: Doria-Rose V. Paul , Scarlett Janet M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine mortality rates and causes of death for thin (ie, lean or emaciated) cats and, if mortality rates were high, to determine factors associated with risk that cats would be thin.

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—1,138 cats examined at 27 private veterinary practices in the northeastern United States.

Procedure—Body condition of the cats was scored (emaciated, lean, optimally lean, optimal, heavy, obese) between 1991 and 1992. Follow-up information on whether cats had developed any illnesses, whether cats had died, and, if cats had died, cause of death was obtained between 1994 and 1996. Mortality risk for emaciated cats was estimated, using cats in optimal condition as the reference group.

Results—Survival curves for emaciated cats were significantly lower than those for cats of other body conditions. Compared with cats in optimal condition, emaciated cats were 4.4 times as likely to die during the follow-up period. However, after adjusting for age and excluding cats that died within 1 year after body condition was scored, emaciated cats were no longer significantly more likely to die. Emaciated cats were more likely to die of an unknown cause than were cats of optimal condition. Risk factors for emaciated body condition included preexisting illness, age, and Siamese breed.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that emaciated cats had a significantly higher risk of death, compared with cats in optimal body condition. Serious illness and advancing age accounted for much, and perhaps all, of this increased risk of death. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:347–351)
Treatment and outcome of dogs with leptospirosis: 36 cases (1990–1998)
Authors: Adin Christopher A. , Cowgill Larry D.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To characterize serologic and clinical features and outcome of dogs with leptospirosis that were treated conservatively (ie, medical management alone) or with hemodialysis.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—36 dogs with leptospirosis.

Procedure—History; results of physical examinations, ultrasonography, and serologic, hematologic, and serum biochemical analyses; time to resolution of azotemia; and outcome were obtained from medical records. Dogs were treated conservatively (n = 22) or with hemodialysis (14).

Results—Between 1990 and 1998, amount of rainfall was positively correlated with number of cases of leptospirosis identified per year. Serum antibodies against 6Leptospiraserovars were measured, and titers were highest toLeptospira pomonain16 (44%) dogs,L bratislavain 9 (25%) dogs, andL hardjoin 1 (3%) dog. Eight (22%) dogs had equally high titers toL pomonaandL bratislava, 1 (3%) had equally high titers toL grippotyphosaandL canicola, and 1 (3%) had high titers toL grippotyphosa,L pomona,L canicola, andL bratislava. During initial evaluation, all dogs were azotemic. Thirty (83%) dogs survived, including 12 of 14 (86%) dogs treated with hemodialysis and 18 of 22 (82%) treated conservatively. Serum creatinine concentration was similar in both groups after resolution of clinical signs.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Infection withL pomonaandL bratislavawas recognized as a cause of leptospirosis in dogs, and resulted in development of acute renal failure with various degrees of azotemia. Prognosis for dogs with mild to moderate azotemia was good with conservative treatment, whereas treatment with hemodialysis appeared to improve prognosis for dogs with severe azotemia. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:371–375)
Intrathoracic and concurrent orthopedic injury associated with traumatic rib fracture in cats: 75 cases (1980–1998)
Authors: Kraje Brian J. , Kraje Amy Clare , Rohrbach Barton W. , Anderson Kelly A. , Marks Steven L. , Macintire Douglass K.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To characterize rib, intrathoracic, and concurrent
orthopedic injuries, and prognosis associated
with traumatic rib fracture in cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—75 cats.

Procedure—Medical records from January 1980 to
August 1998 were examined for cats with traumatic
rib fracture. Signalment, cause of trauma, interval
from trauma to evaluation at a veterinary teaching
hospital, referral status and date, method of diagnosis,
duration of hospitalization, number and location of
rib fractures, presence of flail chest, costal cartilage
involvement, intrathoracic and concurrent orthopedic
injury, and clinical outcome were reviewed.

Results—Median age was 3 years. Twenty-five
(58%) cats with reported cause of trauma were
injured by interaction with another animal. Fortyseven
(78%) cats that were treated survived. Cats
that died had a median duration of hospitalization of
< 1 day. Ten (13%) cats had flail chest. Sixty-five
(87%) cats had intrathoracic injury (median, 2
injuries). Nine (100%) cats without detected intrathoracic
injury that were treated survived. Thirty-five
(47%) cats had concurrent orthopedic injury. Cats
with flail chest, pleural effusion, or diaphragmatic
hernia were significantly more likely to die than cats
without each injury.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Traumatic rib
fracture in cats is associated with intrathoracic and
concurrent orthopedic injury. Aggressive treatment of
cats with traumatic rib fracture is warranted, because
the prognosis is generally favorable. Diagnosis and
treatment of intrathoracic injury associated with traumatic
rib fracture in cats should precede management
of concurrent orthopedic injury. ( J Am Vet Med
Assoc 2000;216:51–54)
Types and doses of injectable medications given to periparturient sows
Authors: Straw Barbara E. , Bush Eric J. , Dewey Catherine E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine types and doses of
injectable medications given to periparturient sows
and reasons for administering those medications, and
to compare medication practices among farms of different
sizes.

Design—Survey.

Sample Population—301 farms; 231,016 periparturient
sows.

Procedure—A survey was used to obtain information
regarding medications given to sows during the farrowing
period. State and federal veterinary medical
officers completed surveys during their final interview
with producers who had participated in the National
Animal Health Monitoring System's (NAHMS) Swine
95 study. Data were summarized and treatment regimens
compared among farms of different sizes.

Results—More than a third of the sows received
medications during the farrowing period. The most
common reasons for administering medications were
routine preventive treatment and treatment of dystocia,
uterine discharge, and poor appetite. The most
commonly used medications for treatment of sick
sows were oxytocin, procaine penicillin G, and B vitamins.
A high percentage of medications were either
not indicated for the specific condition or used at
greater or less than the approved dose. In general,
treatment rates and medications used did not differ
among farms of different sizes.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Better treatment
protocols are needed to provide more appropriate
treatment of sick sows. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2000;216:510–515)
Risk factors for disease associated with influenza virus infections during three epidemics in horses
Authors: Morley Paul S. , Townsend Hugh G. G. , Bogdan Jaret R. , Haines Deborah M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify risk factors associated with respiratory tract disease in horses during 3 epidemics caused by influenza virus infections.

Design—Cross-sectional and prospective longitudinal observational studies.

Animals—1,163 horses stabled at a Thoroughbred racetrack.

Procedure—Investigations were conducted during a 3-year period. An epidemic of respiratory tract disease caused by influenza virus infections was identified in each year. Routine observations and physical examinations were used to classify horses' disease status. Data were analyzed to identify factors associated with development of disease.

Results—Results were quite similar among the epidemics. Concentrations of serum antibodies against influenza virus and age were strongly associated with risk of disease; young horses and those with low antibody concentrations had the highest risk of disease. Calculation of population attributable fractions suggested that respiratory tract disease would have been prevented in 25% of affected horses if all horses had high serum antibody concentrations prior to exposure. However, recent history of vaccination was not associated with reduction in disease risk. Exercise ponies had greater risk of disease than racehorses, which was likely attributable to frequent horse-to-horse contact.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Particular attention should be paid to young horses, those with low serum antibody concentrations, and horses that have frequent contact with other horses when designing and implementing control programs for respiratory tract disease caused by influenza virus infections. It appears that control programs should not rely on the efficacy of commercial vaccines to substantially reduce the risk of disease caused by influenza virus infections. (JAm Vet Med Assoc2000;216:545–550)
Evaluation of assays for determination of passive transfer status in neonatal llamas and alpacas
Authors: Weaver Dusty M. , Tyler Jeff W. , Marion Richard S. , Wallace Laurie M. , Nagy Jesse K. , Holle Julie M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate several practice-adapted assays for determination of passive transfer status in crias.

Animals—24 llama and 9 alpaca crias.

Design—Prospective study.

Procedure—Serum IgG concentration was measured by use of a radial immunodiffusion assay when crias were 45 to 51 hours old. Results were compared with serum γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity, serum total protein, albumin, globulin, and total solids concentrations, and results of commercially available and traditional sodium sulfite turbidity (SST) tests.

Results—Mean (± SD) serum IgG concentration was 1,762 ± 1,153 mg/dl. On the basis of a threshold value of 1,000 mg of IgG/dl at 48 hours of age, 5 of 33 (15.15%) crias had failure of passive transfer. Serum total solids, protein, and globulin concentrations were significantly associated with serum IgG concentration, whereas serum GGT activity and serum albumin concentration were not. Serum IgG concentrations were significantly different among crias with negative, 2+, and 3+ scores on the traditional SST test. Serum IgG concentrations were not significantly different between crias with negative and 100 mg/dl scores or 100 and 300 mg/dl scores on the commercially available SST test. However, all other comparisons between crias with different scores revealed significant differences. Sensitivity and specificity ranged between 0 and 1, depending on the test and endpoint selected.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—The commercially available SST test and determination of serum total protein and globulin concentrations are suitable methods for assessing passive transfer status in llama and alpaca crias. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:559–563)
Prevalence of enteric zoonotic organisms in cats
Authors: Hill Steven L. , Cheney John M. , Taton-Allen Glenda F. , Reif John S. , Bruns Christa , Lappin Michael R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine prevalence of enteric zoonotic organisms in cats in north-central Colorado.

Design—Prospective study.

Sample Population—Serum and fecal samples from 87 cats with diarrhea, 106 cats without diarrhea, and 12 cats for which fecal consistency was unknown.

Procedures—Samples were obtained from clientowned cats and cats at a humane society shelter. Serum was assayed for feline leukemia virus antigen and antibodies against feline immunodeficiency virus, IgM antibodies againstToxoplasma gondii, and IgG antibodies againstT gondiiandCryptosporidium parvum. Microscopic examination of unstained feces was performed after centrifugation in a zinc sulfate solution, thin fecal smears were stained with acid fast stain and examined forC parvum, and bacteriologic culture of feces was used to detect aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.

Results—Enteric zoonotic organisms were detected in feces from 27 of 206 (13.1%) cats and includedC parvum(5.4%),Giardiaspp (2.4%), Toxocara cati (3.9%),Salmonella entericaserotype Typhimurium (1.0%), andCampylobacter jejuni(1.0%); each organism was detected in samples from cats with and without diarrhea. Although differences between groups were not significant, a higher proportion of shelter cats (18.2%) had enteric zoonotic organisms than client-owned cats (10.1%).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Enteric zoonotic organisms were detected in feces of 13.1% of cats, suggesting that cats, particularly those in homes of immunocompromised humans, should be evaluated for enteric zoonotic organisms. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:687–692)
Clinical and pathologic findings in donkeys with hypothermia: 10 cases (1988–1998)
Authors: Stephen Jennifer O. , Baptiste Keith E. , Townsend Hugh G. G.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To describe clinical signs and clinicopathologic
findings in donkeys with hypothermia.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—10 hypothermic donkeys.

Procedure—Information on signalment, history,
physical examination findings, results of diagnostic
tests, treatments, and necropsy findings was extracted
from medical records of all donkeys with hypothermia
between 1988 and 1998 and compared with information
from medical records of all normothermic donkeys
and hypothermic horses admitted to the hospital
during the same period.

Results—Donkeys were more likely to be hypothermic
than horses. The mean age of hypothermic donkeys
was 6 years (range, 7 months to 11 years), compared
with 4.2 years (range, < 1 month to 15 years)
for normothermic donkeys; this difference was not
significant. Ten of 12 horses with hypothermia were
neonates; there were no hypothermic neonatal donkeys.
At admission, 7 of 8 hypothermic donkeys were
in good body condition and all hypothermic donkeys
were weak. Six hypothermic donkeys were able to
maintain sternal recumbency, 1 remained in lateral
recumbency, and 3 were able to stand. Of the 10
hypothermic donkeys, 2 survived, 1 died, and 7 were
euthanatized. Histologically, the thyroid glands from 4
of 5 hypothermic donkeys appeared abnormal and
were similar to those of foals with hypothyroidism.
During the months that hypothermic donkeys were
admitted, there was not a significant difference in
environmental temperatures on days of admission
between hypothermic and normothermic donkeys.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Hypothermia
is a problem in donkeys during cold winter months,
and may not be secondary to other diseases or related
to diet or management. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2000;216:725–729)
Results of hematologic analyses and prevalence of physiologic leukopenia in Belgian Tervuren
Authors: Greenfield Cathy L. , Messick Joanne B. , Solter Philip F. , Schaeffer David J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine reference ranges for results of hematologic analyses of healthy Belgian Tervuren, to compare results of hematologic analyses for healthy Belgian Tervuren with results for healthy dogs of other breeds, and to determine prevalence of physiologic leukopenia in Belgian Tervuren.

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—180 healthy Belgian Tervuren and 63 healthy dogs of other breeds.

Procedure—Blood samples were analyzed by use of an automated device. Reference ranges were calculated for Belgian Tervuren by use of standard methods.

Results—Total WBC counts of Belgian Tervuren ranged from 2.61 to 16.90 X 103/µl. Mean WBC count of Belgian Tervuren (mean ± SEM, 7.04 ± 0.16 X 103/µl) was significantly lower than mean count for control dogs. Significantly more Belgian Tervuren (65/180; 36%) than control dogs (2/63; 3%) had WBC counts < 6.00 X 103/µl. Percentage of Belgian Tervuren with WBC count < 6.00 X 103/µl was low for dogs ≤ 2 years old, increased sharply for dogs between 2 and 4 years old, and was approximately 65% for dogs > 4 years old. Neutrophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts were significantly lower, and RBC count, hematocrit, and eosinophil fraction were significantly higher in Belgian Tervuren than in control dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that physiologic leukopenia, resulting from low numbers of neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, may be a typical finding in a large percentage of healthy Belgian Tervuren and is not of clinical importance in otherwise healthy dogs. Healthy Belgian Tervuren may also have RBC counts and hematocrits higher than expected for healthy dogs.(J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:866–871)
Predictors of owner response to companion animal death in 177 clients from 14 practices in Ontario
Authors: Adams Cindy L. , Bonnett Brenda N. , Meek Alan H.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify predictors of grief and client
desires and needs as they relate to pet death.

Design—Cross-sectional mail survey.

Sample Population—177 clients, from 14 randomly
selected veterinary practices, whose cat or dog died
between 6 and 43 days prior to returning the completed
questionnaire.

Procedure—Veterinary practices were contacted
weekly to obtain the names of clients whose pets
had died until approximately 200 clients were identified.
Clients were contacted by telephone, and a
questionnaire designed to measure grief associated
with pet death was mailed to those willing to participate
within 1 to 14 days of their pet's death. The questionnaire
measured potential correlates and modifiers
of grief and included three outcome measures:
social/emotional and physical consequences, thought
processes, and despair. Demographic data were also
collected.

Results—Approximately 30% of participants experienced
severe grief. The most prominent risk factors
for grief included level of attachment, euthanasia,
societal attitudes toward pet death, and professional
support from the veterinary team.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Bivariate and
multivariate analyses highlighted the impact owners'
attitudes about euthanasia and professional intervention
by the veterinary team had on reactions to pet
death. Owners' perceptions of societal attitudes, also
a predictor of grief, indicate that grief for pets is different
than grief associated with other losses. (J Am
Vet Med Assoc 2000;217:1303–1309)
Complications and outcomes associated with use of gastrostomy tubes for nutritional management of dogs with renal failure: 56 cases (1994–1999)
Authors: Elliott Denise A. , Riel Darlene L. , Rogers Quinton R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate complications and outcomes associated with use of gastrostomy tubes in dogs with renal failure.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—56 dogs.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed for dogs with renal failure that were treated by use of gastrostomy tubes.

Results—Mean ± SD BUN concentration was 134 ± 79 mg/dl and mean serum creatinine concentration was 9.0 ± 3.8 mg/dl. Low-profile gastrostomy tubes were used for initial placement in 10 dogs, and traditional gastrostomy tubes were used in 46 dogs. Mild stoma-site complications included discharge, swelling, erythema, and signs of pain in 26 (46%) of dogs. Twenty-six gastrostomy tubes were replaced in 15 dogs; 11 were replaced because of patient removal, 6 were replaced because of tube wear, and 3 were replaced for other reasons. Six tubes were replaced by low-profile gastrostomy tubes. Gastrostomy tubes were used for 65 ± 91 days (range, 1 to 438 days). Eight dogs gained weight, 11 did not change weight, and 17 lost weight; information was not available for 20 dogs. Three dogs were euthanatized because they removed their gastrostomy tubes, 2 were euthanatized because of evidence of tube migration, and 1 died of peritonitis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Gastrostomy tubes appear to be safe and effective for improving nutritional status of dogs with renal failure. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;217:1337–1342)
Removal of large fragments of the extensor process of the distal phalanx via arthrotomy in horses: 14 cases (1992–1998)
Authors: Dechant Julie E. , Trotter Gayle W. , Stashak Ted S. , Hendrickson Dean A.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the outcome of horses with large fragments of the extensor process of the distal phalanx that were removed by use of arthrotomy.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—14 horses with large fragments of the extensor process of the distal phalanx.

Procedure—Medical records for horses with large fragments of the extensor process that were removed by use of arthrotomy were reviewed. Data retrieved from medical records included signalment, use of horse, affected limb, lameness history, lameness examination findings, radiographic findings, surgical technique, and outcome. Follow-up evaluation was obtained by telephone interview.

Results—Most affected horses were < 5 years old and had a history of chronic lameness. Lameness grade ranged from 1/5 to 4/5. Fragments involved 20 to 45% of the dorsopalmar articular surface of the distal phalanx. Eight of 14 horses had a successful outcome. Outcome was not associated with age, duration or severity of lameness, or fragment size.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Despite involvement of a large portion of the articular surface and use of arthrotomy, joint instability and permanent soft tissue injury was not a problem in most horses. Outcome may be improved by selection of horses with lameness of < 2 years' duration and careful management after surgery. A fair prognosis may be anticipated for removal of large fragments of the extensor process via arthrotomy. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000; 217:1351–1355)
Association of serologic status for Neospora caninum with postweaning weight gain and carcass measurements in beef calves
Authors: Barling Kerry S. , McNeill John W. , Thompson James A. , Paschal Joe C. , McCollum III F. Ted , Craig Thomas M. , Adams L. Garry
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the seroprevalence forNeospora caninumin a population of beef calves in a feedlot and the association of serologic status with postweaning weight gain and carcass measurements.

Design—Longitudinal observational study.

Animals—1,009 weaned beef steers from 92 herds.

Procedure—Samples were obtained from all steers at time of arrival at a feedlot. Serologic status forNeosporaspp was determined, using an agglutination test. Results of serologic testing were compared with calf growth and carcass data, using multivariate regression with generalized estimating equations.

Results—Of 1,009 calves, 131 (12.98%) were seropositive, and 54 of 92 (58.7%) consignments had ≥ 1 seropositive calf. Median within-consignment prevalence for consignments in which there was ≥ 1 seropositive calf was 20%. Seropositive status was associated with significant reductions in average daily gain, live body weight at slaughter, and hot carcass weight and an increase in ribeye area-to-hot carcass weight ratio. Seropositive status also was associated with significant increases in cost of treatment and significant reductions in income. Sick seropositive calves had the highest cost of treatment. An economic loss of $15.62/calf was projected for seropositive calves.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Significant reductions in postweaning weight gain, carcass weight, and economic return were associated with detection of antibodies toN caninumin beef calves in a feedlot. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;217: 1356–1360)