bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of storage time and temperature on pH, specific gravity, and crystal formation in urine samples from dogs and cats
Authors: Albasan Hasan , Lulich Jody P. , Osborne Carl A. , Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol , Ulrich Lisa K. , Carpenter Kathleen A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine effects of storage temperature
and time on pH and specific gravity of and number
and size of crystals in urine samples from dogs
and cats.

Design—Randomized complete block design.

Animals—31 dogs and 8 cats.

Procedure—Aliquots of each urine sample were analyzed
within 60 minutes of collection or after storage
at room or refrigeration temperatures (20 vs 6°C [68
vs 43°F]) for 6 or 24 hours.

Results—Crystals formed in samples from 11 of 39
(28%) animals. Calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals
formed in vitro in samples from 1 cat and 8 dogs.
Magnesium ammonium phosphate (MAP) crystals
formed in vitro in samples from 2 dogs. Compared
with aliquots stored at room temperature, refrigeration
increased the number and size of crystals that
formed in vitro; however, the increase in number and
size of MAP crystals in stored urine samples was not
significant. Increased storage time and decreased
storage temperature were associated with a significant
increase in number of CaOx crystals formed.
Greater numbers of crystals formed in urine aliquots
stored for 24 hours than in aliquots stored for 6
hours. Storage time and temperature did not have a
significant effect on pH or specific gravity.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Urine samples
should be analyzed within 60 minutes of collection to
minimize temperature- and time-dependent effects on
in vitro crystal formation. Presence of crystals observed
in stored samples should be validated by reevaluation of
fresh urine. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:176–179)
Surgical and postoperative complications associated with tibial plateau leveling osteotomy in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture: 397 cases (1998–2001)
Authors: Pacchiana Philip D. , Morris Ethan , Gillings Sarah L. , Jessen Carl R. , Lipowitz Alan J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify surgical and postoperative complications of tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) in dogs with rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) and compare their incidence with those reported in the literature for other commonly performed CCL stabilization procedures.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—346 dogs undergoing 397 TPLO procedures.

Procedure—Medical records of dogs undergoing 563 consecutive TPLO procedures were reviewed. Complications were recorded and assigned to groups on the basis of the period during which the complication was observed.

Results—397 TPLOs met the criteria for inclusion in the study. Complications (n = 136) were recorded in 113 of the 397 (28%) procedures. Multiple complications developed in 10 dogs. In 19 dogs, a second surgery was performed to manage complications. Development of a complication after surgery was not associated with age or body weight of the dog, tibial plateau angle prior to stifle joint surgery, or experience of the surgeon. Factors significantly associated with complications were breed and performance of an arthrotomy concomitantly with TPLO.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—TPLO was associated with development of numerous complications, some of which required surgical correction. Most complications resolved with nonsurgical treatment. Several complications were unique to the TPLO procedure because of the surgical technique and implants required. Although TPLO was associated with a greater number of complications than other CCL stabilization methods, the incidence of major complications was similar. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:184–193)
Use of a test for proteins induced by vitamin K absence or antagonism in diagnosis of anticoagulant poisoning in dogs: 325 cases (1987–1997)
Authors: Mount Michael E. , Kim Brian U. , Kass Philip H.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine usefulness of the test for proteins induced by vitamin K absence or antagonism (PIVKA) to identify anticoagulant-poisoned dogs, compared with one-stage prothrombin time (OSPT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) tests.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—325 dogs.

Procedure—Comparisons of results of PIVKA, OSPT, and APTT measurements in dogs with anticoagulant poisoning, hepatic disease, disseminated intravascular coagulation, other blood-related disorders, immune-mediated diseases, or other chronic and acute diseases were performed. Median, quartile, and range values were determined.

Results—PIVKA tests with a 150-second critical value had > 98% specificity and > 90% sensitivity for diagnosis of anticoagulant poisoning versus > 99% specificity and > 79% sensitivity with a 300-second critical value. Comparison of PIVKA values among diagnostic groups revealed significant differences between dogs with anticoagulant poisoning and all other groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The PIVKA test with a 150-second critical value is diagnostically useful for distinguishing anticoagulant poisoning from other coagulopathies. Severe liver disease can cause false-positive results. Administration of vitamin K1or early evaluation (within a few hours of ingesting anticoagulant) may cause false-negative results. Dogs with PIVKA test values > 150 seconds and clinical signs of anticoagulant poisoning can confidently be considered to have anticoagulant poisoning because of the high test sensitivity and specificity. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:194–198)
Case-control study of late-term abortions associated with mare reproductive loss syndrome in central Kentucky
Authors: Cohen Noah D. , Carey Vincent J. , Donahue James G. , Seahorn Janyce L. , Donahoe Judith K. , Williams Deborah M. , Harrison Lenn R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify factors associated with abortions
of mares during late gestation attributed to mare
reproductive loss syndrome (MRLS).

Design—Case-control study.

Animals—282 broodmares from 62 farms in central
Kentucky, including 137 mares that had late-term
abortions (LTAs) associated with MRLS, 98
mares from the same farms that did not abort, and
48 mares that aborted from causes other than
MRLS.

Procedure—Farm managers were interviewed to
obtain data on a wide range of management practices
and environmental exposures for the mares. Data for
case and control horses were compared to identify
risk factors for a mare having a MRLS-associated LTA
(MRLS-LTA).

Results—Several factors increased the risk of mares
having MRLS-LTAs, including increased amount of
time at pasture, less time in a stall, feeding concentrate
on the ground, higher proportion of diet derived
from grazing pasture, being fed in pasture exclusively
during the 4-week period prior to abortion, access to
pasture after midnight during the 4-week period prior
to abortion, and drinking from a water trough or not
having access to water buckets or automatic waterers.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Analysis indicates
that exposure to pasture predisposed mares to
having MRLS-LTAs and stillborn foals. Methods for
limiting exposure to pasture (keeping mares in stalls
longer) during environmental conditions similar to
those seen in 2001 should reduce the risk of mares
having MRLS-LTAs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:199–209)
Case-control study of early-term abortions (early fetal losses) associated with mare reproductive loss syndrome in central Kentucky
Authors: Cohen Noah D. , Donahue James G. , Carey Vincent J. , Seahorn Janyce L. , Piercy Donna , Donahoe Judith K. , Williams Deborah M. , Brown II Stuart E. , Riddle Thomas W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify factors associated with abortions
during early gestation classified as mare reproductive
loss syndrome (MRLS).

Design—Case-control study.

Animals—324 broodmares from 43 farms in central
Kentucky, including 121 mares from 25 farms that
had early-term abortions (ETAs) associated with
MRLS (case horses), 120 mares from the same farms
but that did not abort, and 83 mares from 18 farms
that were not severely impacted by MRLS.

Procedure—Farm managers were interviewed to
obtain data on various management practices and
environmental exposures for the mares. Data for case
and control horses were compared to identify risk factors
for mares having MRLS-associated ETAs.

Results—Several factors increased the risk of MRLS-associated
ETAs, including feeding hay in pasture,
greater than usual amounts of white clover in pastures,
more eastern tent caterpillars in pastures, abortion
during a previous pregnancy, and sighting deer or
elk on the premises.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Analysis indicates
that certain characteristics of pastures predisposed
mares to MRLS-associated ETAs. Methods for
limiting exposure to pasture (keeping mares in stalls
longer) during environmental conditions similar to
those of 2001 (ie, sudden freezing in mid-April following
warmer-than-usual springtime temperatures and
larger-than-usual numbers of eastern tent caterpillars
in and around pastures) should reduce the risk of
mares having MRLS-associated ETAs. It was not possible
to determine whether exposure to white clover
or caterpillars were causal factors for MRLS or were
merely indicators of unusual environmental conditions
that resulted in exposure of mares to a toxic or infectious
agent. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:210–217)
Association between initial systolic blood pressure and risk of developing a uremic crisis or of dying in dogs with chronic renal failure
Authors: Jacob Frédéric , Polzin David J. , Osborne Carl A. , Neaton James D. , Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol , Allen Timothy A. , Kirk Claudia A. , Swanson Laurie L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether high systolic blood
pressure (SBP) at the time of initial diagnosis of
chronic renal failure in dogs was associated with
increased risk of uremic crisis, risk of dying, or rate of
decline in renal function.

Design—Prospective cohort study.

Animals—45 dogs with spontaneous chronic renal
failure.

Procedure—Dogs were assigned to 1 of 3 groups on
the basis of initial SBP (high, intermediate, low);
Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards methods
were used to estimate the association between SBP
and development of a uremic crisis and death. The
reciprocal of serum creatinine concentration was
used as an estimate of renal function.

Results—Dogs in the high SBP group were more
likely to develop a uremic crisis and to die than were
dogs in the other groups, and the risks of developing
a uremic crisis and of dying increased significantly as
SBP increased. A greater decrease in renal function
was observed in dogs in the high SBP group.
Retinopathy and hypertensive encephalopathy were
detected in 3 of 14 dogs with SBP ≥ 180 mm Hg.
Systolic blood pressure remained high in 10 of 11
dogs treated with antihypertensive drugs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested
that initial high SBP in dogs with chronic renal
failure was associated with increased risk of developing
a uremic crisis and of dying. Further studies are
required to determine whether there is a cause-and-effect
relationship between high SBP and progressive
renal injury and to identify the risks and benefits of
antihypertensive drug treatment. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:322–329)
Case-control study of factors associated with excessive proportions of early fetal losses associated with mare reproductive loss syndrome in central Kentucky during 2001
Authors: Dwyer Roberta M. , Garber Lindsey P. , Traub-Dargatz Josie L. , Meade Barry J. , Powell David , Pavlick Michael P. , Kane Albert J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify factors associated with excessive proportions of early fetal losses associated with mare reproductive loss syndrome in central Kentucky during 2001.

Design—Case-control study.

Procedure—Questionnaires were used to collect information on farm-, pasture-, and individual animallevel factors purportedly associated with mare reproductive loss syndrome. Data were collected for 133 farms (97 with excessive proportions of early fetal losses and 36 control farms) representing 6,576 mares.

Results—Factors significantly associated with an increased risk of excessive early fetal losses were exposure to moderate to high concentrations of Eastern tent caterpillars, exposure to cherry trees, farm size ≥ 50 broodmares, being bred during February 2001, and frequent exposure to waterfowl. Feeding hay to mares outside was associated with a decreased risk of excessive proportions of early fetal losses. Pasture composition and management factors were not significantly different between affected and control pastures. Individual animal-level factors were investigated on 6 farms representing 340 mares, and age, parity, and pre- and postbreeding treatments were not significantly associated with risk of early fetal loss.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that limiting exposure to Eastern tent caterpillars and cherry trees and feeding hay to mares outside may help decrease the risk of excessive proportions of early fetal losses associated with mare reproductive loss syndrome. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222: 613–619)
Efficacy and safety of once versus twice daily administration of methimazole in cats with hyperthyroidism
Authors: Trepanier Lauren A. , Hoffman Stacey B. , Kroll Mandy , Rodan Ilona , Challoner Laura
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether once daily administration of methimazole was as effective and safe as twice daily administration in cats with hyperthyroidism.

Design—Randomized, nonblinded, clinical trial.

Animals—40 cats with newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism.

Procedure—Cats were randomly assigned to receive 5 mg of methimazole, PO, once daily (n = 25) or 2.5 mg of methimazole, PO, twice daily (15). A complete physical examination, including measurement of body weight; CBC; serum biochemical analyses, including measurement of serum thyroxine concentration; and urinalysis were performed, and blood pressure was measured before and 2 and 4 weeks after initiation of treatment.

Results—Serum thyroxine concentration was significantly higher in cats given methimazole once daily, compared with cats given methimazole twice daily, 2 weeks (3.7 vs 2.0 μg/dL) and 4 weeks (3.2 vs 1.7 μg/dL) after initiation of treatment. In addition, the proportion of cats that were euthyroid after 2 weeks of treatment was lower for cats receiving methimazole once daily (54%) than for cats receiving methimazole twice daily (87%). Percentages of cats with adverse effects (primarily gastrointestinal tract upset and facial pruritus) were not significantly different between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that once daily administration of methimazole was not as effective as twice daily administration in cats with hyperthyroidism and cannot be recommended for routine use. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003; 222:954–958)
Cutaneous and ocular habronemiasis in horses: 63 cases (1988–2002)
Authors: Pusterla Nicola , Watson Johanna L. , Wilson W. David , Affolter Verena K. , Spier Sharon J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To describe clinical manifestations of cutaneous and ocular habronemiasis in horses and evaluate outcome of treatment.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—63 horses.

Procedure—The diagnosis was made on the basis of history, clinical signs, and identification of calcified concretions (sulfur granules) in lesions. Histologic examination of biopsy specimens was used to confirm the diagnosis. Case horses were compared with a control population of 12,720 horses examined during the same period.

Results—Arabians, gray horses, and horses with diluted coat colors were overrepresented; Thoroughbreds were underrepresented. Lesions were identified most often during the summer and early fall. The medial canthus of the eye, male genitalia, third eyelid, and distal portions of the extremities were the most commonly affected locations. Twenty-five lesions were biopsied, and results of histologic examination were consistent with a diagnosis of habronemiasis. However, nematode larvae were seen in only 11 (44%) biopsy specimens. Treatment consisted of surgical removal (7 horses) or medical treatment (56) consisting of debulking granulation tissue and topical, intralesional, or systemic treatment with corticosteroids. All horses were treated with ivermectin.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that cutaneous and ocular habronemiasis should be considered when examining a horse during the summer months with a proliferative, moist, granulomatous lesion. Treatment should be aimed at decreasing the size of the lesion, reducing inflammation, and preventing recurrence. In general, the prognosis was good, and healing occurred within a few weeks. Fly control and regular deworming with ivermectin are recommended to reduce the incidence of habronemiasis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222: 978–982)
Clinicopathologic and radiographic features and etiologic agents in cats with histologically confirmed infectious pneumonia: 39 cases (1991–2000)
Authors: Macdonald Ellen S. , Norris Carol R. , Berghaus Roy B. , Griffey Stephen M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine clinicopathologic and radiographic features and etiologic agents in cats that died as a result of infectious pneumonia.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—39 cats.

Procedure—Medical records of cats in which infectious pneumonia was confirmed by histologic examination of necropsy specimens were reviewed. Signalment, clinical signs, and results of a CBC, viral serologic tests, and thoracic radiography were evaluated. Infectious agents were classified as bacterial, viral, fungal, protozoal, or parasitic. Histologic features (severity, duration, anatomic location, and distribution) were analyzed.

Results—Clinical signs referable to the respiratory tract were not detected in 14 of 39 (36%) cats, and results of a CBC (4/18 cats) and radiography (3/13) were unremarkable. Sixteen of 39 (41%) cats lacked clinical signs of systemic illness. Etiologic agents identified included bacteria (n = 21), viruses (11), fungi (6), protozoa (2), and parasites (1). Cats with clinical signs related to the respiratory tract (19/24 [79%] cats) were more likely to have severe histologic changes than cats without signs related to the respiratory system (6/14). Twenty-nine of 38 (76%) cats had histologic evidence of systemic disease, whereas the remaining cats had lesions limited to the respiratory tract.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Infectious pneumonia is uncommon in cats. Cats with infectious pneumonia may lack clinical signs and have unremarkable results for a CBC and thoracic radiography, yet frequently have systemic infections. Therefore, clinicians should maintain an index of suspicion for pneumonia and evaluate the respiratory tract when infection is detected in other organ systems. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:1142–1150)
Patterns of mycoplasma shedding in the milk of dairy cows with intramammary mycoplasma infection
Authors: Biddle Mary K. , Fox Larry K. , Hancock Dale D.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine patterns of mycoplasma
shedding in the milk of dairy cows with intramammary
mycoplasma infection.

Design—Prospective clinical trial.

Animals—10 Holstein cows with intramammary
mycoplasma infection.

Procedure—Milk samples were collected from each
cow daily for 28 days and plated on mycoplasma agar
to evaluate shedding patterns. To determine whether
enrichment improved recovery of organisms, some
samples were also inoculated in mycoplasma enrichment
medium and incubated for 4 days prior to plating.
Somatic cell count (SCC) was determined in samples
collected weekly.

Results—Mycoplasma organisms were not isolated
from 81 of 280 (29%) composite milk samples, but
> 106 colonies/mL were obtained from 151 (54%).
Similarly, mycoplasma organisms were not isolated
from 433 of 1,008 (43%) quarter milk samples, but
> 106 colonies/mL were obtained from 392 (39%). For
71 of 104 (68%) samples, mycoplasma organisms
were isolated both following direct plating and following
enrichment; for 24 of 104 (23%), mycoplasma
organisms were isolated only following enrichment;
and for 9 of 104 (9%), mycoplasma organisms were
isolated only after direct plating. There was a linear
correlation between logarithm of the SCC and logarithm
of the number of colony-forming units of
mycoplasma per milliliter of milk for composite and
quarter milk samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Shedding of
organisms was inconsistent in dairy cows with intramammary
mycoplasma infection, increasing the risk
of misdiagnosis if multiple milk samples are not tested.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;223:1163–1166).
Usefulness, completeness, and accuracy of Web sites providing information on osteoarthritis in dogs
Authors: Jehn Carl T. , Perzak Deborah E. , Cook James L. , Johnston Spencer A. , Todhunter Rory J. , Budsberg Steven C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the quality of information
regarding osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs currently available
on the World Wide Web.

Design—Survey study.

Procedure—5 search engines were searched with
the keywords "dog," "degenerative joint disease,"
"canine," and "osteoarthritis," and the first 50 sites
listed by each search engine were analyzed. Unique
Web site addresses were distributed to 3 diplomates
of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, who
provided a standardized evaluation of each site.

Results—30 unique Web sites were evaluated.
Twenty (66%) provided information consistent with
conventional knowledge as outlined in textbooks and
peer-reviewed literature, 8 (27%) provided experimental
or anecdotal information in addition to conventional
knowledge, and 2 (7%) provided misleading information.
Mean scores for overall usefulness of the information
provided in regard to clinical features of and
treatment for OA were 1.3 and 1.5, respectively (1 =
information of minimal use; 5 = very useful information).
Twenty-three (77%) sites encouraged pet owners
to seek the advice of a veterinarian. Twenty-three
(77%) sites were given overall quality scores < 2, and
7 (23%) were given scores between 2 and 3 (1 = site
was counterproductive; 5 = site was very valuable).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that the quality of information currently available
on the Web that addresses OA in dogs is questionable.
Although most of the sites conveyed some conventional
information with reasonable accuracy, the
information was incomplete, of minimal use, and
often considered counterproductive. (J Am Vet Med
Assoc 2003;223:1272–1275)
Multicenter case-control study of risk factors associated with development of vaccine-associated sarcomas in cats
Authors: Kass Philip H. , Spangler William L. , Hendrick Mattie J. , McGill Lawrence D. , Esplin D. Glen , Lester Sally , Slater Margaret , Meyer E. Kathryn , Boucher Faith , Peters Erika M. , Gobar Glenna G. , Htoo Thurein , Decile Kendra
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether particular vaccine brands, other injectable medications, customary vaccination practices, or various host factors were associated with the formation of vaccine-associated sarcomas in cats.

Design—Prospective multicenter case-control study.

Animals—Cats in the United States and Canada with soft tissue sarcomas or basal cell tumors.

Procedure—Veterinarians submitting biopsy specimens from cats with a confirmed diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma or basal cell tumor were contacted for patient medical history. Time window statistical analyses were used in conjunction with various assumptions about case definitions.

Results—No single vaccine brand or manufacturer within antigen class was found to be associated with sarcoma formation. Factors related to vaccine administration were also not associated with sarcoma development, with the possible exception of vaccine temperature prior to injection. Two injectable medications (long-acting penicillin and methyl prednisolone acetate) were administered to case cats more frequently than to control cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Findings do not support the hypotheses that specific brands or types of vaccine within antigen class, vaccine practices such as reuse of syringes, concomitant viral infection, history of trauma, or residence either increase or decrease the risk of vaccineassociated sarcoma formation in cats. There was evidence to suggest that certain long-acting injectable medications may also be associated with sarcoma formation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:1283–1292)
Prevalence of lameness among dairy cattle in Wisconsin as a function of housing type and stall surface
Authors: Cook Nigel B.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the prevalence of lameness as a function of season (summer vs winter), housing type (free stalls vs tie stalls), and stall surface (sand vs any other surface) among lactating dairy cows in Wisconsin.

Design—Epidemiologic survey.

Animals—3,621 lactating dairy cows in 30 herds.

Procedure—Herds were visited once during the summer and once during the winter, and a locomotion score ranging from 1 (no gait abnormality) to 4 (severe lameness) was assigned to all lactating cows. Cows with a score of 3 or 4 were considered to be clinically lame.

Results—Mean ± SD herd lameness prevalence was 21.1 ± 10.5% during the summer and 23.9 ± 10.7% during the winter; these values were significantly different. During the winter, mean prevalence of lameness in free-stall herds with non-sand stall surfaces (33.7%) was significantly higher than prevalences in free-stall herds with sand stall surfaces (21.2%), tiestall herds with non-sand stall surfaces (21.7%), and tie-stall herds with sand stall surfaces (12.1%).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the prevalence of lameness among dairy cattle in Wisconsin is higher than previously thought and that lameness prevalence is associated with season, housing type, and stall surface. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:1324–1328)
Potential pathogens in feces from unweaned llamas and alpacas with diarrhea
Authors: Cebra Christopher K. , Mattson Donald E. , Baker Rocky J. , Sonn Robert J. , Dearing Peggy L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify potential pathogens in feces from llama and alpaca crias with diarrhea.

Design—Prospective observational study.

Animals—45 unweaned crias with diarrhea.

Procedure—Fecal samples were evaluated forEimeriaspp,Giardiaspp,Cryptosporidiumspp, enteric viruses, andSalmonellaspp. A questionnaire yielded information concerning herd management and presence of other affected camelids.

Results—28 crias were ≤ 31 days old, 11 were 32 to 62 days old, and 6 were 63 to 210 days old. Potential pathogens were isolated from feces from 32 of the 45 crias. A total of 39 potential pathogens were obtained, including coronavirus (n = 19 crias; 42%),Giardiaspp (8; 18%),Eimeriaspp (6; 13%),Cryptosporidiumspp (4; 9%), rotavirus (1; 2%), and nematode ova (1; 2%).Salmonellaspp were not isolated. Most crias from which potential pathogens were isolated were identified during outbreaks of diarrhea involving other camelids, although only coronavirus was isolated from crias identified during outbreaks involving adult camelids. Coronavirus was detected throughout the year, whereas protozoa were most commonly isolated during the fall and winter.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that a variety of potential pathogens may be isolated from young crias with diarrhea. Many crias shed coronavirus, which may also have been affecting older camelids. Protozoa were isolated most often during wetter months, suggesting that crias born during these months may have greater exposure to protozoal pathogens. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223: 1806–1808)
Diagnostic quality of percutaneous kidney biopsy specimens obtained with laparoscopy versus ultrasound guidance in dogs
Authors: Rawlings Clarence A. , Diamond Halise , Howerth Elizabeth W. , Neuwirth Lisa , Canalis Chanda
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare diagnostic quality of percutaneous kidney biopsy specimens obtained with laparoscopy versus ultrasound guidance in dogs and compare diagnostic quality of specimens obtained with 14- versus 18-gauge biopsy needles.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—10 healthy dogs.

Procedure—In each dog, 2 biopsy specimens were obtained from each kidney, 1 with a 14-gauge biopsy needle and 1 with an 18-gauge biopsy needle. Biopsy specimens were obtained from 1 kidney by means of ultrasound guidance and from the contralateral kidney by means of direct viewing during laparoscopy. Number of glomeruli, quality of the biopsy specimen, proportion of specimens that contained muscle tissue, and proportion of specimens with fragmentation or crushing were determined.

Results—Mean ± SD number of glomeruli (32.6 ± 11.0) in laparoscopic, 14-gauge biopsy specimens was significantly higher than mean number of glomeruli in ultrasound-guided, 14-gauge specimens; mean number of glomeruli in ultrasound-guided, 18-gauge specimens; and mean number of glomeruli in laparoscopic, 18-gauge specimens. All 10 laparoscopic, 14-gauge biopsy specimens were classified as excellent. The proportion of 18-gauge biopsy specimens with crushing or fragmentation was significantly higher than the proportion of 14-gauge specimens. One of the kidneys biopsied with ultrasound guidance had a large amount of hemorrhage. Hemorrhage was modest and transient following laparoscopic biopsy.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that excellent-quality renal biopsy specimens with large numbers of glomeruli can be obtained with 14-gauge, double-spring-activated biopsy needles during laparoscopy. Renal biopsy specimens obtained with 18-gauge biopsy needles frequently had few glomeruli and often were crushed or fragmented, increasing the difficulty in making an accurate diagnosis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:317–321)
Use of a plate-rod construct and principles of biological osteosynthesis for repair of diaphyseal fractures in dogs and cats: 47 cases (1994–2001)
Authors: Reems Michael R. , Beale Brian S. , Hulse Don A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine outcome for dogs and cats with diaphyseal fractures in which a plate-rod construct was used for fracture repair.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—35 dogs and 12 cats.

Procedures—Medical records and radiographs were reviewed to obtain information concerning signalment, fracture severity, construct design, time to radiographic union, complications, and outcome. Clients were contacted by telephone to obtain information on complications, limb usage, and overall satisfaction with the procedure.

Results—31 femoral, 9 humeral, and 7 tibial fractures were assessed. Thirteen fractures consisted of 2 fragments, 22 consisted of 3 to 5 fragments, and 12 consisted of > 5 fragments. Forty-six of 47 (98%) fractures reached union. Mean ± SD times to radiographic union were 7.5 ± 2.7 weeks for the dogs and 4.8 ± 1.3 weeks for the cats. There were 4 short-term, minor complications and 15 long-term complications (2 major and 13 minor). Owners of 21 of 30 dogs (70%) and 9 of 12 cats reported that their animals had normal limb function. Twenty-six of 28 dog owners (93%) and 12 of 12 cat owners indicated that they were satisfied with results of the procedure. As surgery time increased, time to union also increased. Time to union for fractures with > 5 fragments was significantly shorter than time to union for fractures with ≤ 5 fragments.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that plate-rod constructs can successfully be used for repair of diaphyseal fractures of a wide range of severity in dogs and cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:330–335)
Economic implications of bovine leukemia virus infection in mid-Atlantic dairy herds
Authors: Rhodes J. Kelly , Pelzer Kevin D. , Johnson Yvette J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the baseline costs of bovine leukemia virus (BLV) infection, including costs of clinical disease and subclinical infection, in a dairy herd representative of the mid-Atlantic region and compare these costs with the cost of a test-and-manage BLV control program.

Design—Stochastic spreadsheet model.

Sample Population—A commercial Holstein dairy herd with 100 milking cows.

Procedures—A spreadsheet model was developed. The overall cost of infection included the cost of clinical disease (ie, lymphosarcoma [LS]) and the effects of subclinical infection on milk production and premature culling. Model input values and distributions were designed to reflect economic conditions in the mid-Atlantic region. Relative costs of infection and control were calculated for infection prevalences of 20, 50, and 80%.

Results—Estimated mean cost to the producer per case of LS was $412; for a herd with a 50% prevalence of BLV infection, annual incidence of LS was 0.66. Mean annual cost of subclinical infection at a 50% prevalence of infection was $6,406. Mean annual cost of a test-and-manage control program was $1,765. The cost of clinical disease and subclinical infection varied substantially with the prevalence of infection, whereas the cost of control varied with herd size.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that a basic BLV control program may be economically beneficial in herds in which the prevalence of BLV infection is ≥ 12.5%. Farm-specific considerations may factor prominently when weighing the costs and benefits of an individual BLV control program. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:346–352)
Surgical management of adrenal gland tumors with and without associated tumor thrombi in dogs: 40 cases (1994–2001)
Authors: Kyles Andrew E. , Feldman Edward C. , Cock Hilde E. V. De , Kass Philip H. , Mathews Kyle G. , Hardie Elizabeth M. , Nelson Richard W. , Ilkiw Janet E. , Gregory Clare R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare pathologic findings and results of adrenalectomy for adrenal gland tumors in dogs with and without vena caval tumor thrombi.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—40 dogs with adrenal gland tumors.

Procedure—Medical records were examined. An exact logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate associations between tumor type or right-sided versus left-sided tumor involvement and development of caval tumor thrombi and associations between tumor thrombi, tumor type, or right- versus left-sided location and perioperative complications and mortality rate. Survival was compared between dogs with and without tumor thrombi.

Results—Caval thrombi were detected in 25% of dogs, including 3 of 28 (11%) dogs with an adrenocortical tumor and 6 of 11 dogs with a pheochromocytoma. A caval tumor thrombus was detected in 6 of 17 right-sided and 4 of 20 left-sided tumors. Sensitivity and specificity of abdominal ultrasonography for detection of caval thrombi were 80 and 90%, respectively. Intraoperative and postoperative complications developed in 15 and 51% of dogs, respectively. The mortality rate was 22%. There were no significant differences in perioperative morbidity and mortality rates between dogs with and without tumor thrombi.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Caval thrombi associated with adrenal gland tumors are amenable to adrenalectomy and thrombectomy without significantly increased perioperative morbidity and mortality rates, assuming the surgeon is experienced in appropriate techniques. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223: 654–662)
Comparison of prices paid for feeder calves sold at conventional auctions versus special auctions of vaccinated or conditioned calves in Ontario
Authors: Macartney Joanne E. , Bateman Kenneth G. , Ribble Carl S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether vaccinated or conditioned feeder calves sold through special auctions in Ontario commanded a premium, compared with feeder calves sold at conventional auctions, and whether various physical characteristics of the calves were associated with the sale price.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—14,037 calves sold through conventional and special auctions at the Keady Livestock Market during the fall of 1999 and 2000.

Procedure—Calves were observed as they were sold by lot in the auction ring. Lot characteristics and the price received for each lot were recorded. Multivariate analysis was used to estimate the effect of lot characteristics and sale type on price.

Results—Information was recorded for 2,601 calf lots. Multivariate analysis indicated that various lot characteristics were associated with sale price, with 68% of the variation explained by the model. Overall, lots sold at special auctions received a premium of $0.06/lb (Canadian dollars), compared with lots sold at conventional auctions. However, the premium varied with mean body weight of the lot and year. In addition, frame size, breed, body condition score, uniformity of the lot, weaning status, mean body weight, lot size, sex, year, and sale type were significantly related to sale price.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that producers selling calves at special auctions at this market received a premium, compared with producers selling calves at conventional auctions. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:670–676)
Accuracy and precision of a point-of-care hemoglobinometer for measuring hemoglobin concentration and estimating packed cell volume in horses
Authors: Chevalier Helene , Posner Lysa P. , Ludders John W. , French Tracy W. , Erb Hollis N. , Gleed Robin D.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine accuracy and precision of a point-of-care hemoglobinometer for measuring hemoglobin concentration and estimating PCV in horses.

Design—Prospective trial.

Animals—55 horses.

Procedure—Blood samples were obtained from 43 horses examined at a veterinary teaching hospital. Hemoglobin concentration was measured with the hemoglobinometer and by means of the standard cyanmethemoglobin method; PCV was measured by centrifugation. Blood samples were also obtained from 12 healthy horses, and PCV of aliquots of these samples was altered to approximately 5 to 80% by removing or adding plasma. Hemoglobin concentration and PCV were then measured.

Results—For samples from the clinic patients, hemoglobin concentrations obtained with the hemoglobinometer were less than concentrations obtained with the cyanmethemoglobin method; however, there was a linear relationship between concentrations obtained with the 2 methods. Breed, sex, body weight, and duration of sample storage did not significantly affect the difference between hemoglobin concentrations obtained with the 2 methods. There was a significant linear relationship between PCV and hemoglobinometer hemoglobin concentration (PCV = [2.83 X hemoglobin concentration] − 0.62). For samples from the healthy horses, a substantial negative bias was evident with the hemoglobinometer when hemoglobin concentration exceeded 16 g/dL.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that this hemoglobinometer is reasonably accurate and precise when used to measure hemoglobin concentration in blood samples from horses with a hemoglobin concentration < 16 g/dL. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:78–83)
Prophylactic use of decoquinate for infections with Cryptosporidium parvum in experimentally challenged neonatal calves
Authors: Moore Dale A. , Atwill E. Robert , Kirk John H. , Brahmbhatt Dipa , Alonso Laura Herrera , Hou Lingling , Singer Matthew D. , Miller Tracy D.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effect of daily oral administration of decoquinate to neonatal calves experimentally challenged with various numbers ofCryptosporidium parvumoocysts.

Design—Clinical trial.

Animals—75 calves.

Procedure—Calves were purchased from a commercial dairy during a 5-week period. Calves were housed in individual hutches and fed milk replacer with or without decoquinate (2 mg/kg [0.9 mg/lb per day]). Calves were randomly assigned to treatment and 1 of 5 challenge groups (0, 50, 100, 1000, or 10,000C parvumoocysts in 60 mL of saline [0.9% NaCl] solution administered PO on the day after arrival). Calves were maintained in the study for as long as 28 days. Calves were clinically assessed for diarrhea and dehydration. Fecal samples were submitted for oocyst enumeration 3 times each week.

Results—Treatment did not affect number of days to first watery feces (diarrhea), number of days to first oocyst shedding, or duration of diarrhea or oocyst shedding. Duration of oocyst shedding was significantly associated with challenge dose of oocysts administered to calves and number of days to first oocyst shedding. Duration of diarrhea and number of days to first oocyst shedding were significantly associated with week of arrival and number of days to first watery diarrhea.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Daily treatment with decoquinate at the dosage used in this study did not affect oocyst shedding or clinical signs associated with cryptosporidiosis. However, there was an indication that if the number of oocysts calves received could be reduced, then the duration of oocyst shedding and, hence, environmental loading ofC parvumoocysts could be reduced. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:839–845)
Demographic and clinical characteristics of geriatric horses: 467 cases (1989–1999)
Authors: Brosnahan Margaret M. , Paradis Mary Rose
Published: January 2006

Objective—To describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of a population of geriatric horses.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—467 horses that were ≥ 20 years of age.

Procedure—Medical records of 539 geriatric horses that were evaluated at a university large animal hospital between 1989 and 1999 were reviewed. Data collected included signalment, reason for evaluation, specific diagnoses, surgical procedures, inpatient or outpatient care, duration of hospitalization, and outcome.

Results—467 horses met the criteria for inclusion in the study. Horses that were ≥ 20 years of age comprised 2.2 and 12.5% of horses evaluated during 1989 and 1999, respectively. Pony breeds were significantly overrepresented in the ≥ 30-years-of-age group. Gastrointestinal tract, musculoskeletal, and respiratory tract problems were most frequently reported. Colic was the most common clinical sign, followed by lameness. Diagnoses made most frequently included pituitary dysfunction, strangulating lipoma of the small intestine, laminitis, heaves, large colon impaction, and gastric ulcers. Pituitary dysfunction was significantly more prevalent in horses that were > 30 years of age. Laminitis was significantly associated with the presence of pituitary dysfunction.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—It was difficult to assess association of age with illnesses identified in these horses. Demographic data and information regarding common diseases of horses that are ≥ 20 years of age are limited but will become increasingly important as this geriatric population increases. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:93–98)
Assessment of clinical characteristics, management practices, and activities of geriatric horses
Authors: Brosnahan Margaret M. , Paradis Mary Rose
Published: January 2006

Objective—To describe the demographic and clinical characteristics, management practices, and owner perception of a population of geriatric horses, and to compare these data with findings in a group of younger horses.

Design—Original study.

Animals—218 horses.

Procedure—Data were collected via a survey tool from owners of 165 horses that were > 20 years of age and 53 horses that were < 20 years of age.

Results—Compared with young horses, the geriatric group included a significantly greater number of ponies; geriatric horses were also more likely to have a history of colic, dental disease, tumors, lameness, and pituitary disease, but not laminitis, diarrhea, allergies, respiratory tract disease, thyroid disease, or fractures. Horses that had participated in Western equestrian disciplines were more likely to have a history of lameness. Among old horses, those with pituitary dysfunction were more likely to have a history of laminitis than those without pituitary dysfunction. Geriatric horses were more likely to have long hair and shedding abnormalities than were younger horses. Owners perceived their horses as old at approximately 22 years of age. In horses older than 16.5 years of age, age was a negative factor in the purchase of horses.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Geriatric and young horses share some similar health problems, but old horses have distinct health problems and veterinary medical requirements. The management and athletic history of horses may influence health as they age. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:99–103)
Use of a self-expanding occluding stent for nonsurgical closure of patent ductus arteriosus in dogs
Authors: Sisson David
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the clinical application of a catheter-delivered, self-expanding occluding stent for closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in dogs.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—23 client-owned dogs weighing at least 3 kg (6.6 lb).

Procedure—Dogs were evaluated by physical examination, electrocardiography, thoracic radiography, and 2-dimensional, M-mode, spectral and color-flow Doppler echocardiography to confirm the diagnosis and obtain baseline measures. Shunt severity and ductal size and anatomy were established by means of angiography. With fluoroscopic guidance, the occluding stent, attached to a delivery cable, was maneuvered though the right side of the heart into the ductus via a prepositioned introducer sheath. After angiographic verification of appropriate stent placement, the delivery cable was detached, and the introducer sheath was withdrawn. Closure of the PDA was evaluated by means of angiography 15 minutes after stent deployment and by echocardiography 1 and 3 months after the procedure.

Results—There were no operative deaths. There were 2 deployment failures, both attributable to avoidable operator errors. Angiography performed after stent deployment indicated PDA closure in 13 of 20 (65%) dogs. There were 2 postoperative deaths in dogs with heart failure; both deaths were thought to be unrelated to use of the occluding stent. Complete PDA closure, determined by Doppler color-flow echocardiography, was evident in 17 of 19 dogs within 3 months and in 1 additional dog within 1 year of stent deployment, resulting in closure in 18 of 19 dogs completing the study protocol.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that a catheter-delivered occluding stent can be used successfully to close PDAs in dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:999–1005)
Evaluation of the effect of cephalexin and enrofloxacin on clinical laboratory measurements of urine glucose in dogs
Authors: Rees Christine A. , Boothe Dawn M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effects of cephalexin
and enrofloxacin on results of 4 commercially available
urine glucose tests in dogs.

Animals—6 healthy adult female dogs.

Procedure—In a crossover design, cephalexin (22 and
44 mg/kg [10 and 20 mg/lb], PO, q 8 h) or enrofloxacin (5
and 10 mg/kg [2.3 and 4.5 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h) was administered
to dogs for 1 day. Urine samples were tested for
glucose at 0, 6, and 24 hours after drug administration.
In vitro, dextrose was added to pooled glucose-negative
canine urine samples containing either no antimicrobial
or known concentrations of either antimicrobial; urine
samples were then tested for glucose.

Results—In vivo, false-positive results were obtained
by use of a tablet test in the presence of both antimicrobials
and by use of a strip test in the presence of
cephalexin. In vitro, false-positive results were
obtained with the tablet test at the highest urine concentration
of cephalexin (2,400 μg/mL) and with a
strip test at the highest concentration of enrofloxacin
(600 μg/mL). Enrofloxacin in urine samples containing
dextrose caused the urine glucose tests to underestimate
urine glucose concentration.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cephalexin
and enrofloxacin at dosages used in clinical practice
may result in false-positive or false-negative urine glucose
results, and care should be taken when using
urine as a basis for identifying or monitoring diabetic
animals. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2004;224:1455–1458)