bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of interoperator variance in shunt fraction calculation after transcolonic scintigraphy for diagnosis of portosystemic shunts in dogs and cats
Authors: Samii Valerie F. , Kyles Andrew E. , Long Craig D. , Mellema Linda M. , Pollard Rachel E. , Kass Philip H. , Hornof William J.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine interoperator variance in shunt fraction calculation.

Design—Case series.

Sample Population—101 transrectal portoscintigraphic studies.

Procedure—Results of dynamic portoscintigraphic studies were reviewed by 4 radiologists without knowledge of signalment, history, or medical profile. Results were judged to be negative or positive on the basis of the dynamic scan. Composite images were formulated, and hand-drawn regions of interest were determined for the heart and liver. Time-activity curves were generated, time-zero points were selected, curves were integrated during a 10-second interval, and shunt fractions were calculated.

Results—Radiologists were in agreement regarding positive versus negative results for 99 of 101 studies. Interoperator variance in shunt fraction calculation ranged from 0.4 to 59.6%. For 51 studies with positive results, variance ranged from 2.5 to 59.6% (mean ± SD, 22.8 ± 14.5%); differences among reviewers were significant. For 48 studies with negative results, variance in shunt fraction ranged from 0.4 to 25.9% (mean, 5.3 ± 5.8%); significant differences among reviewers were not detected. Shunt fraction calculations were not exactly reproducible among radiologists in 94 and 100% of studies with negative or positive results, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that shunt fraction values are not reproducible among operators. Range in variability was greater in studies with positive results. This factor may be of particular clinical importance in reassessment of patients after incomplete shunt ligation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1116–1119)
Hyperglycemia in dogs and cats with head trauma: 122 cases (1997–1999)
Authors: Syring Rebecca S. , Otto Cynthia M. , Drobatz Kenneth J.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine whether hyperglycemia is
associated with head trauma in dogs and cats and
whether the degree of hyperglycemia corresponds to
severity of neurologic injury or outcome.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—52 dogs and 70 cats with head trauma and
122 age- and species-matched control dogs and cats.

Procedure—Severity of head trauma was classified
as mild, moderate, or severe. Blood glucose concentrations
recorded within 1 hour after admission were
compared between case and control animals and
among groups when case animals were grouped on
the basis of severity of head trauma or outcome.

Results—Blood glucose concentration was significantly
associated with severity of head trauma in
dogs and cats and was significantly higher in dogs
and cats with head trauma than in the control animals.
However, blood glucose concentration was not
associated with outcome.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that dogs and cats with head trauma may have
hyperglycemia and that degree of hyperglycemia was
associated with severity of head trauma. However,
degree of hyperglycemia was not associated with
outcome for dogs and cats with head trauma.
Because hyperglycemia can potentiate neurologic
injury, iatrogenic hyperglycemia should be avoided in
patients with head trauma. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2001;218:1124–1129)
Comparison of tibial plateau angles in dogs with and without cranial cruciate ligament injuries
Authors: Morris Ethan , Lipowitz Alan J.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To measure and compare tibial plateau angles (TPA) of dogs with cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) injuries and dogs without CrCL injuries.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—87 dogs.

Procedure—Stifle joints were measured from lateral radiographic views to determine TPA in 3 groups: group-1 dogs had CrCL injuries, group-1a dogs, a subgroup of group 1, had 1 unaffected stifle joint, and group-2 dogs had no CrCL injuries. Age, sex, breed, body weight, limb injured, and TPA were recorded for each dog.

Results—56 stifle joints were measured in group-1 dogs; mean TPA was 23.76°, and mean age and weight were 5.7 years and 37.91 kg (83.4 lb), respectively. Fourteen stifle joints were measured in group-1a dogs; mean TPA was 24.71°, and mean age and weight were 5.6 years and 38.06 kg (83.8 lb), respectively. Sixty stifle joints were measured in group-2 dogs; mean TPA was 18.10°, and mean age and weight of these dogs were 4.83 years and 35.85 kg (79 lb), respectively. The most common breeds included Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Rottweiler. The TPA of dogs in group 1 and group 1a were significantly greater than the TPA of dogs in group 2.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Dogs with CrCL injuries have a significantly greater TPA than dogs without CrCL injury. With further investigation, a normal TPA can be determined. In the future, TPA measurements may be used to screen dogs suspected of being susceptible to CrCL injury. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:363–366)
Effect of vaccination on experimental infection with Bordetella bronchiseptica in dogs
Authors: Ellis John A. , Haines Deborah M. , West Keith H. , Burr J. Hilty , Dayton Arthur , Townsend Hugh G. G. , Kanara Edward W. , Konoby Carrie , Crichlow Ann , Martin Karen , Headrick Garland
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine comparative efficacy of vaccines administered IM and intranasally, used alone or sequentially, to protect puppies from infection withBordetella bronchisepticaand determine whether systemic or mucosal antibody response correlated with protection.

Design—Randomized controlled trial.

Animals—50 specific-pathogen-free Beagle puppies.

Procedure—In 2 replicates of 25 dogs each, 14-weekold puppies that were vaccinated against canine distemper virus and parvovirus were vaccinated againstB bronchisepticavia intranasal, IM, intranasal-IM, or IMintranasal administration or were unvaccinated controls. Puppies were challenge exposed via aerosol administration ofB bronchiseptica2 weeks after final vaccination. Clinical variables and systemic and mucosal antibody responses were monitored for 10 days after challenge exposure. Puppies in replicate 1 were necropsied for histologic and immunohistochemical studies.

Results—Control puppies that were seronegative before challenge exposure developed paroxysmal coughing, signs of depression, anorexia, and fever. Vaccinated puppies (either vaccine) that were seronegative before challenge exposure had fewer clinical signs. Puppies that received both vaccines had the least severe clinical signs and fewest lesions in the respiratory tract. Vaccinated dogs had significantly higher concentrations ofB bronchiseptica-reactive antibodies in serum saliva before and after challenge. Antibody concentrations were negatively correlated with bacterial growth in nasal cavity and pharyngeal samples after challenge exposure.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Parenterally and intranasally administered vaccines containingB bronchisepticamay provide substantial protection from clinical signs of respiratory tract disease associated with infection by this bacterium. Administration of both types of vaccines in sequence afforded the greatest degree of protection against disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:367–375)
Idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension in dogs: 33 cases (1982–1998)
Authors: Bunch Susan E. , Johnson Susan E. , Cullen John M.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To describe clinical signs, diagnostic findings, and outcome in dogs with idiopathic intrahepatic portal hypertension.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—33 dogs.

Procedure—Medical records of dogs with portal hypertension of intra-abdominal origin were reviewed. Dogs with intra-abdominal portal hypertension of vascular causes or with hepatic histopathologic changes consistent with severe diffuse hepatobiliary disease were excluded. History and results of physical examination, clinicopathologic tests, diagnostic imaging studies, histologic examination, and treatment were summarized. Outcome was determined in 26 dogs.

Results—Dogs were referred most often because of ascites, intermittent vomiting or diarrhea, and polydipsia of several months' duration. Microcytosis, high serum alkaline phosphatase and alanine transaminase activities, hepatic dysfunction, urine specific gravity ≤ 1.021, and abdominal transudate were the predominant clinicopathologic features. Microhepatia, abdominal effusion, and multiple anomalous venous anastomoses were the major findings of diagnostic imaging. Hepatic histopathologic changes were consistent with idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension and were indistinguishable from those of dogs with surgically created portocaval anastomosis. Outcome was determined for 19 dogs released from hospital; 13 dogs remained healthy with mostly palliative treatment for periods of 5 months to 9 years.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The clinical signs, clinicopathologic test results, portal pressure, and gross appearance of the liver of dogs with idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension may be identical to those of dogs with cirrhosis; therefore liver biopsy is crucial. Because the prognosis for idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension is generally favorable, owners of affected dogs should be discouraged from choosing euthanasia. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000; 218:392–399)
Effect of oral administration of excessive iron in adult ponies
Authors: Pearson Erwin G. , Andreasen Claire B.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To evaluate the potential of excess dietary iron to cause hepatic lesions similar to those described in horses with suspected iron toxicosis or hemochromatosis.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—6 adult male ponies.

Procedure—4 ponies received 50 mg of iron/kg (22.7 mg/lb) of body weight each day by oral administration of ferrous sulfate, which contained 20% elemental iron; 2 ponies received only the carrier (applesauce). Complete blood counts, serum biochemical analyses, and hepatic tissue biopsies were performed, and serum iron concentrations were measured. Blood and tissue samples were obtained at days 0 and 2, and at the end of weeks 1, 3, 6, and 8 after administration of iron was initiated. Treatment was discontinued after 8 weeks, and hepatic iron concentrations were measured at 28 weeks.

Results—Hepatic iron concentrations, serum iron concentrations, percentage saturation of transferrin, and serum ferritin concentrations were increased, compared with baseline and control concentrations, by week 8. Adverse clinical signs or histologic lesions in the liver were not detected in any ponies. At 28 weeks, hepatic iron concentrations had decreased.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Histologic lesions were not seen in the hepatic biopsy specimens obtained from the ponies treated with ferrous sulfate. It was concluded that it would be unlikely for iron toxicosis to develop in adult ponies or horses during a period of < 8 weeks when food or water contained increased amounts of iron. It is suspected that previous reports of hepatopathies in animals with hemosiderin accumulation may represent a primary hepatopathy with secondary hemosiderin accumulation, especially if the only source of iron is via oral consumption. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218: 400–404)
Association between dietary factors and calcium oxalate and magnesium ammonium phosphate urolithiasis in cats
Authors: Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol , Osborne Carl A. , Lulich Jody P. , Pusoonthornthum Rosama , Kirk Claudia A. , Ulrich Lisa K. , Koehler Lori A. , Carpenter Kathleen A. , Swanson Laurie L.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To identify dietary factors associated with the increase in occurrence of calcium oxalate (CaOx) uroliths and the decrease in occurrence of magnesium ammonium phosphate (MAP) uroliths in cats.

Design—Case-control study.

Animals—173 cats with CaOx uroliths, 290 cats with MAP uroliths, and 827 cats without any urinary tract diseases.

Procedure—Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed.

Results—Cats fed diets low in sodium or potassium or formulated to maximize urine acidity had an increased risk of developing CaOx uroliths but a decreased risk of developing MAP uroliths. Additionally, compared with the lowest contents, diets with the highest moisture or protein contents and with moderate magnesium, phosphorus, or calcium contents were associated with decreased risk of CaOx urolith formation. In contrast, diets with moderate fat or carbohydrate contents were associated with increased risk of CaOx urolith formation. Diets with the highest magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, chloride, or fiber contents and moderate protein content were associated with increased risk of MAP urolith formation. On the other hand, diets with the highest fat content were associated with decreased risk of MAP urolith formation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that diets formulated to contain higher protein, sodium, potassium, moisture, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium contents and with decreased urine acidifying potential may minimize formation of CaOx uroliths in cats. Diets formulated to contain higher fat content and lower protein and potassium contents and with increased urine acidifying potential may minimize formation of MAP uroliths. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:1228–1237)
Association between cancer chemotherapy and canine distemper virus, canine parvovirus, and rabies virus antibody titers in tumor-bearing dogs
Authors: Henry Carolyn J. , McCaw Dudley L. , Brock Kenny V. , Stoker Aaron M. , Tyler Jeff W. , Tate Deborah J. , Higginbotham Mary Lynn
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine the association between cancer chemotherapy and serum canine distemper virus (CDV), canine parvovirus (CPV), and rabies virus antibody titers in tumor-bearing dogs.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—21 client-owned dogs with various malignancies and 16 client-owned dogs with lymphoma.

Procedure—In study A, serum antibody titers were measured by use of hemagglutination inhibition (CPV titers) or serum neutralization (CDV titers) before and at least 1 month after initiation of chemotherapy. Baseline values were compared with values obtained from a control population of 122 healthy dogs seen for routine revaccination. Titers were considered protective at ≥ 1:96 for CDV and ≥ 1:80 for CPV.

In study B, serum IgG titers were measured by use of immunofluorescent assay (CDV and CPV titers) and rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test (RFFIT, rabies titers) at baseline and again at weeks 5, 8, and 24 of a standard chemotherapy protocol for treatment of lymphoma. An IgG titer of ≥ 1:50 was considered protective for CPV and CDV. An RFFIT titer of ≥ 0.5 U/ml was considered protective for rabies virus.

Results—Significant changes were not detected in CDV, CPV, and rabies virus titers following chemotherapy in tumor-bearing dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that established immunity to CDV, CPV, and rabies virus from previous vaccination is not significantly compromised by standard chemotherapy used to treat tumor-bearing dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:1238–1241)
Comparison of three radiographic methods for diagnosis of hip dysplasia in eight-month-old dogs
Authors: Lust George , Todhunter Rory J. , Erb Hollis N. , Dykes Nathan L. , Williams Alma J. , Burton-Wurster Nancy I. , Farese James P.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To compare the accuracy of the extended- hip radiographic (EHR) score, the distraction index (DI), and the dorsolateral subluxation (DLS) score for identifying hip dysplasia in dogs at 8 months of age.

Design—Cohort study

Animals—129 Labrador Retrievers, Greyhounds, and Labrador Retriever-Greyhound crossbreds.

Procedure—Radiography was performed when dogs were 8 months of age. Dogs were euthanatized at 8 to 36 months of age; hip dysplasia was diagnosed at the time of necropsy on the basis of results of a gross examination of the articular cartilage of the hip joints for signs of osteoarthritis.

Results—The EHR score, DI, and DLS score at 8 months of age were all significantly correlated with degree of cartilage degeneration at necropsy. Sensitivity and specificity of using EHR score at 8 months of age to diagnose hip dysplasia (scores > 3 were considered abnormal) were 38 and 96%, respectively; sensitivity and specificity of using DI (values > 0.7 were considered abnormal) were 50 and 89%; and sensitivity and specificity of using DLS score (scores ≤ 55% were considered abnormal) were 83 and 84%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that specificities of the 3 methods for diagnosing hip dysplasia in dogs at 8 months of age were similar. However, the DLS score had higher sensitivity, indicating that there were fewer false-negative results. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:1242–1246)
Clinical and microbiologic findings in dogs with bronchoscopically diagnosed tracheal collapse: 37 cases (1990–1995)
Authors: Johnson Lynelle R. , Fales William H.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To investigate the role of bacteria in bronchoscopically diagnosed tracheal collapse in dogs by evaluating qualitative results of bacteriologic cultures.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—37 dogs with tracheal collapse.

Procedure—Clinical records for dogs with tracheal collapse confirmed with bronchoscopy were reviewed. A protected catheter brush was used to obtain samples for bacteriologic culture from the large airways.

Results—Results of bacterial culture were negative for 5 of 29 dogs. For 24 dogs, 1 (n = 10), 2 (6), or ≥ 3 (8) species of bacteria were isolated.Pseudomonasspp were isolated most frequently (17/29), and a singlePseudomonassp grew in 7 samples. Other bacteria includedEnterobacterspp (4/29),Citrobacterspp (3/29), andMoraxellaspp,Klebsiellaspp,Bordetellaspp, orAcinetobacterspp (2/29 dogs each). Anaerobic and aerobic cultures yielded positive results in samples from 2 dogs. Cytologic results were available for 13 dogs with positive results of bacteriologic culture; epithelial cells were reported most commonly. Five samples had a small number of neutrophils; bacteria were identified cytologically in 2 of 5 samples that contained neutrophils. Bacteria were also seen in 2 samples that lacked inflammatory cells.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Bacteria are commonly isolated from samples obtained via airway brushing in dogs with tracheal collapse; however, in the absence of cytologic confirmation of inflammation or infection, an association between bacteria and clinical signs of tracheal collapse cannot be established. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:1247–1250)
Feeding practices associated with colic in horses
Authors: Hudson Jason M. , Cohen Noah D. , Gibbs Pete G. , Thompson James A.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine whether specific feeding practices were associated with development of colic in horses.

Design—Prospective matched case-control study.

Animals—364 horses examined by veterinarians in private practice in Texas because of colic (cases; n = 182) or any other reason (controls; 182).

Procedure—Participating veterinarians were sent forms at the beginning of the study to collect information on signalment, feeding management practices, farm management practices, and preventive medical treatments. Case and control horses were compared by use of conditional logistic regression to identify factors associated with colic.

Results—Risk factors for colic were a recent change in batch of hay, decreased exposure to pasture, a recent change in type of grain or concentrate fed, feeding > 2.7 kg (6 lb) of oats/d, feeding hay from round bales, and Thoroughbred breed. Recent anthelmintic administration decreased the risk of colic.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that certain changes in diet (eg, change in batch of hay, change in type of grain or concentrate, feeding hay from round bales) and management (eg, decreased availability of pasture) increase the risk of colic in horses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:1419–1425)
Descriptive epidemiology of postnatal bovine viral diarrhea virus infection in intensively managed dairy heifers
Authors: Rush Donald M. , Thurmond Mark C. , Muñoz-Zanzi Claudia A. , Hietala Sharon K.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To evaluate risk of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection between birth and 9 months of age for dairy replacement heifers raised under typical dry-lot management conditions.

Design—Longitudinal observational study.

Animals—446 calves.

Procedure—Calves were randomly selected from 2 dairies that used killed and modified-live BVDV vaccines. Repeated serologic and BVDV polymerase chain reaction assays were used to estimate risk of BVDV infection in calves of various ages (1 to 60 days; 61 to 100 days; 101 days to 9 months) and to estimate overall infection rate by 9 months of age.

Results—Risk of BVDV infection increased with age (maximum risk, 150 to 260 days). Proportion of calves infected with BVDV by 9 months of age was higher for dairy A (0.665), compared with dairy B (0.357). Percentage infected with BVDV type I did not differ between dairy A (18.2%) and dairy B (15.2%), whereas percentage infected with BVDV type II for dairy A (50%) was twice that for dairy B (21%). Between 210 and 220 days of age, infection with BVDV regardless of type was > 1.3%/d on dairy A and 0.5%/d on dairy B.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Under drylot conditions, a considerable amount of BVDV infection may occur before 9 months of age. Risk of infection increases with age. Although dairies may appear to have similar management practices, there can be considerably different risks of BVDV infection among dairies. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:1426–1431)
Serum total thyroxine, total triiodothyronine, free thyroxine, and thyrotropin concentrations in dogs with nonthyroidal disease
Authors: Kantrowitz Lawrence B. , Peterson Mark E. , Melián Carlos , Nichols Rhett
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine whether nonthyroidal disease of various causes and severity is associated with abnormalities in baseline serum concentrations of total thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), free T4, or thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH]) in dogs believed to be euthyroid.

Design—Case-control study.

Animals—223 dogs with confirmed nonthyroidal diseases and presumptive normal thyroid function, and 150 clinically normal dogs.

Procedure—Serum total T4, total T3, free T4, and TSH concentrations were measured in dogs with confirmed nonthyroidal disease. Reference ranges for hormone concentrations were established on the basis of results from 150 clinically normal dogs.

Results—In dogs with nonthyroidal disease, median serum concentrations of total T4, total T3, and free T4were significantly lower than those in clinically normal dogs. Median serum TSH concentration in sick dogs was significantly greater than that of clinically normal dogs. When stratified by severity of disease (ie, mild, moderate, and severe), dogs with severe disease had low serum concentrations of total T4, total T3, or free T4more commonly than did dogs with mild disease. In contrast, serum TSH concentrations were more likely to remain within the reference range regardless of severity of disease.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate that serum total T4, free T4, and total T3concentrations may be low (ie, in the hypothyroid range) in dogs with moderate to severe nonthyroidal disease. Serum TSH concentrations are more likely to remain within the reference range in sick dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:765–769)
Use of closed-suction drains to treat generalized peritonitis in dogs and cats: 40 cases (1997–1999)
Authors: Mueller Maureen G. , Ludwig Lori L. , Barton Linda J.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine outcome of dogs and cats with generalized peritonitis treated by means of closed-suction drainage.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—30 dogs and 10 cats with generalized peritonitis.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed, and information on signalment, clinicopathologic abnormalities, contamination source, results of microbial culture, surgical procedure performed, postoperative management, complications, and outcome was obtained.

Results—The gastrointestinal tract was the most common source of contamination. Abdominal fluid collected from 34 patients at the time of surgery was submitted for bacterial culture; results were positive for 28 (82%). The most commonly isolated organism wasEscherichia coli. Postoperative complications included anemia (n = 21), hypoproteinemia (21), vomiting (9), edema (7), and diarrhea (5). Total solids concentration did not decrease during the first 48 hours after surgery, and all drains remained functional until removal. Twenty-eight patients survived to the time of discharge; 8 of the 12 animals that died did so within 18 hours after surgery. The only factor significantly different between patients that survived and patients that died was postoperative systolic blood pressure. Factors that were not significantly associated with outcome included detection of bacteria in the abdominal fluid, number of organisms cultured from the abdominal fluid, selection of antimicrobials for empiric treatment, and source of contamination.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that closed-suction drainage may be a useful method for treating generalized peritonitis in dogs and cats. No clinically important complications were associated with their use. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:789–794)
Serum and vitreous humor antibody titers in and isolation of Leptospira interrogans from horses with recurrent uveitis
Authors: Wollanke Bettina , Rohrbach Barton W. , Gerhards Hartmut
Published: July 2006

Objective—To measure antibody titers againstLeptospira interrogansin serum and vitreous humor and determine the prevalence ofL interrogansin vitreous humor of horses with recurrent uveitis.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—242 horses (270 eyes) with recurrent uveitis undergoing vitrectomy and 39 control horses (54 eyes) without any history or clinical signs of recurrent uveitis undergoing euthanasia or enucleation for unrelated reasons.

Procedure—Serum and vitreous humor were tested for antibodies against 13 serovars ofL interrogans. Vitreous humor was submitted for leptospiral culture; isolates were typed to the serogroup level.

Results—Leptospira interroganswas isolated from vitreous humor from 120/229 (52%) horses (126/252 [50%] eyes) with recurrent uveitis but was not isolated from vitreous humor from 36 eyes of 21 control horses. Duration of recurrent uveitis was ≥ 1 year for 45 of the 120 (38%) horses from which the organism was isolated. Geometric mean antibody titers againstL interrogansin the vitreous humor and serum of horses with recurrent uveitis were 1:1,332 and 1:186, respectively. Only 91 of 120 (76%) horses from which the organism was isolated had a 4-fold or greater difference between serum and vitreous humor antibody titers.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that persistent ocular infection withL interrogansis common in horses with recurrent uveitis. A 4- fold increase in vitreous humor versus serum antibody titers may not be a sensitive test for the diagnosis ofL interrogans-induced recurrent uveitis. We hypothesize that the immune component of recurrent uveitis can be directly induced and maintained by persistent infection of the eye withL interrogans. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:795–800)
Multilocation trial of ceftiofur for treatment of postpartum cows with fever
Authors: Zhou Chun , Boucher Joseph F. , Dame Kenneth J. , Moreira Modesto , Graham Randy , Nantel Jacques , Zuidhof Sjoert , Arfi Laurent , Flores Rogelio , Neubauer Gary , Olson Jerry
Published: July 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effect of ceftiofur for treatment of postpartum cows with fever.

Design—Multilocation randomized complete block design trial.

Animals—330 cows.

Procedure—Cows with rectal temperature ≥ 39.5 C (103.1 F) during the first 10 postpartum days were randomly assigned to a treatment (ceftiofur; 1 mg/kg [0.45 mg/lb] of body weight daily for 3 days) or untreated control group. Cure (no additional or alternative antimicrobial treatment used, rectal temperature < 39.5 C, and no other concurrent clinical signs of disease when evaluated at 9 or 10 days after enrollment), milk production, and rectal temperature were evaluated.

Results—Ceftiofur-treated cows were significantly more likely to be cured than control cows (56.0 vs 28.9%, respectively), with an odds ratio of 3.14 when vaginal discharge (a factor with moderate interaction with treatment) was present at enrollment. Among cows that had an abnormal calving (a significant interaction factor), treated cows had first milking yield 2.27 kg (5 lb) greater than control cows. Treated cows had a significantly greater reduction in rectal temperature (1.19 C [2.14 F]), compared with control cows (1.04 C [1.87 F]).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Parenteral administration of ceftiofur significantly improved cure rate, milk yield, and rectal temperature in postpartum cows with fever and vaginal discharge or dystocia. These findings provide information to determine appropriate treatment for postpartum cows, which for years has been debated in the dairy industry. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:805–808)
Clinical evaluation of dietary modification for treatment of spontaneous chronic renal failure in dogs
Authors: Jacob Frédéric , Polzin David J. , Osborne Carl A. , Allen Timothy A. , Kirk Claudia A. , Neaton James D. , Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol , Swanson Laurie L.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine whether a diet used for dogs with renal failure (renal food [RF]) was superior to an adult maintenance food (MF) in minimizing uremic crises and mortality rate in dogs with spontaneous chronic renal failure.

Design—Double-masked, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Animals—38 dogs with spontaneous chronic renal failure.

Procedure—Dogs were randomly assigned to a group fed adult MF or a group fed RF and evaluated for up to 24 months. The 2 groups were of similar clinical, biochemical, and hematologic status. The effects of diets on uremic crises and mortality rate were compared. Changes in renal function were evaluated by use of serial evaluation of serum creatinine concentrations and reciprocal of serum creatinine concentrations.

Results—Compared with the MF, the RF had a beneficial effect regarding uremic crises and mortality rate in dogs with mild and moderate renal failure. Dogs fed the RF had a slower decline in renal function, compared with dogs fed the MF.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Dietary modifications are beneficial in minimizing extrarenal manifestations of uremia and mortality rate in dogs with mild and moderate spontaneous chronic renal failure. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that delay in development of uremic crises and associated mortality rate in dogs fed RF was associated, at least in part, with reduction in rate of progression of renal failure. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220: 1163–1170)
Interobserver variation among histopathologic evaluations of intestinal tissues from dogs and cats
Authors: Willard Michael D. , Jergens Albert E. , Duncan Robert B. , Leib Michael S. , McCracken Malcolm D. , DeNovo Robert C. , Helman Rowland G. , Slater Margaret R. , Harbison Jacque L.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine whether substantial interobserver variation exists among diagnostic pathologists for descriptions of intestinal mucosal cell populations and whether histopathologic descriptions accurately predict when a patient does not have clinically evident intestinal disease.

Design—Comparative survey.

Sample Population—14 histologic slides of duodenal, ileal, or colonic tissue from 10 dogs and 3 cats.

Procedure—Each histologic slide was evaluated independently by 5 pathologists at 4 institutions. Pathologists, who had no knowledge of the tissues' origin, indicated whether slides were adequate for histologic evaluation and whether the tissue was normal or abnormal. They also identified the main infiltrating cell type in specimens that were considered abnormal, and whether infiltrates were mild, moderate, severe, or neoplastic.

Results—Quality of all slides was considered adequate or superior by at least 4 of the 5 pathologists. For intensity of mucosal cellular infiltrates, there was uniformity of opinion for 1 slide, near-uniformity for 6 slides, and nonuniformity for 7 slides. Five dogs did not have clinical evidence of intestinal disease, yet the pathologists' descriptions indicated that their intestinal tissue specimens were abnormal.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Substantial interobserver variation was detected. Standardization of pathologic descriptions of intestinal tissue is necessary for meaningful comparisons with published articles. Clinicians must be cautious about correlating clinical signs and histopathologic descriptions of intestinal biopsy specimens. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1177–1182)
Diagnosis, surgical treatment, and performance after unilateral castration in breeding bulls: 21 cases (1989–1999)
Authors: Ivany Jennifer M. , Anderson David E. , Ayars William H. , Monke Donald R. , Wittum Thomas E. , Hull Bruce L. , Frazer Grant , St-Jean Guy
Published: July 2006

Objective—To evaluate signalment, surgical treatment, postoperative complications, and future breeding success or semen production in a group of bulls with naturally occurring disease of the scrotum or testis.

Study design—Retrospective study.

Animals—21 bulls that underwent unilateral castration after evaluation for scrotal swelling.

Procedure—A computer-assisted search of medical records at 2 veterinary teaching hospitals was performed. Historical, diagnostic, surgical, and follow-up data were collected and analyzed for those bulls with scrotal swelling that underwent unilateral castration.

Results—Four of 5 pasture breeding bulls and 9 of 10 semen collection-center bulls successfully bred cows or produced viable semen within 6 months of surgery. Fourteen of 21 surgical procedures were performed after induction of general anesthesia. Sixty-six percent of procedures were performed as open castrations. Seventy-one percent of bulls developed postoperative complications, most of which were mild swellings. Unilateral castration returned 13 of 15 bulls with unilateral disease of the scrotum or testis to productive service by 6 months after surgery.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Unilateral castration is an effective treatment for unilateral disease of the scrotum or testis in bulls, allowing return to reproductive function. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002; 220:1198–1202)
Evaluation of an in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for quantitative measurement of serum total thyroxine concentration in dogs and cats
Authors: Lurye Jill C. , Behrend Ellen N. , Kemppainen Robert J.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To compare serum total thyroxine (T4) concentrations obtained with an in-house ELISA and a validated radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Design—Laboratory trial.

Sample Population—50 canine and 50 feline serum samples submitted for measurement of total T4concentration with the RIA; samples were selected to represent a wide range of concentrations (< 6 to 167 nmol/L).

Procedure—Results of the ELISA and RIA were compared by calculating correlation coefficients, examining linearity, determining bias and precision, and evaluating clinical interpretations.

Results—Correlation coefficients for results of the 2 methods were 0.84 for the canine samples and 0.59 for the feline samples. Examination of bias plots revealed large variations in ELISA results, compared with RIA results. For the feline samples, the ELISA consistently overestimated total T4concentration obtained with the RIA. When results of the 2 methods were categorized (low, borderline low, normal, borderline high, or high), results were discordant for 24 (48%) and 29 (58%) of the canine samples and for 18 (36%) and 28 (56%) of the feline samples (depending on whether borderline high ELISA results were considered normal or high). Reliance on results of the ELISA would have led to inappropriate clinical decisions for 31 (62%) canine samples and 25 (50%) feline samples. The ELISA coefficients of variation for the pooled canine and feline samples were 18 and 28%, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Substantial discrepancies between ELISA and RIA results for T4concentrations were detected. Thus, we concluded that the in-house ELISA kit was not accurate for determining serum total T4concentrations in dogs and cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:243–249)
Use of enrofloxacin for treatment of large-form Haemobartonella felis in experimentally infected cats
Authors: Dowers Kristy L. , Olver Christine , Radecki Steven V. , Lappin Michael R.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To compare treatment with enrofloxacin and doxycycline with no treatment in cats experimentally infected withHaemobartonella felis.

Design—Prospective case-control study.

Animals—16 cats.

Procedure—Cats were inoculated with large-formH felisfrom a chronically infected donor. Cats were assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups: doxycycline (5 mg/kg [2.3 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h), low-dose enrofloxacin (5 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h), high-dose enrofloxacin (10 mg/kg [4.5 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h), and an untreated control group. Clinical signs, Hct, blood smears, and a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay were used to monitor progression of the infection.

Results—All cats were confirmed to be infected withH felisvia blood smear evaluations and PCR assay results. Treatment had no effect on Hct during the intratreatment period, but Hct values were significantly greater in the low-dose enrofloxacin group, compared with the control group, during the posttreatment period. During the intratreatment period,H felisorganism counts per 1,000 RBC in the doxycycline treatment and the high-dose enrofloxacin treatment groups decreased at a significantly faster rate than those in the control group. In the posttreatment period, organism counts in the doxycycline treatment group and the low- and high-dose enrofloxacin groups decreased at significantly faster rates than counts in the control group. There was no significant effect of treatment on the number of positive PCR assay results. Two cats treated with enrofloxacin and 1 cat treated with doxycycline completely cleared theH felisorganism despite presumed immunosuppression caused by glucocorticoids.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results support the hypothesis that enrofloxacin has anti-H feliseffects. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:250–253)
Correlation between severity of clinical signs and motor evoked potentials after transcranial magnetic stimulation in large-breed dogs with cervical spinal cord disease
Authors: Poma Roberto , Parent Joane M. , Holmberg David L. , Partlow Gary D. , Monteith Gabrielle , Sylvestre Anne M.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To evaluate use of transcranial magnetic motor evoked potentials for assessment of the functional integrity of the cervical spinal cord in largebreed dogs with cervical spinal cord disease.

Design—Randomized, controlled, masked study.

Animals—10 healthy large-breed control dogs and 25 large-breed dogs with cervical spinal cord diseases.

Procedure—Affected dogs were allocated to 3 groups on the basis of neurologic status: signs of neck pain alone, ambulatory with ataxia in all limbs, or nonambulatory. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was performed on each dog with the same standard technique. Motor evoked potentials (MEP) were recorded from electrodes inserted in the tibialis cranialis muscle. Following the procedure, each dog was anesthetized and cervical radiography, CSF analysis, and cervical myelography were performed. The MEP latencies and amplitudes were correlated with neurologic status of the dogs after correction for neuronal path length.

Results—Mean MEP latencies and amplitudes were significantly different between control dogs and dogs in each of the 3 neurologic categories, but were not significantly different among dogs in the 3 neurologic categories. A linear association was evident between MEP latencies and amplitudes and severity of neurologic deficits; the more severe the neurologic deficits, the more prolonged the latencies and the more decreased the amplitudes.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Transcranial magnetic MEP are useful to assess severity of cervical spinal cord disease in large-breed dogs. Impairment of the functional integrity of the cervical spinal cord was found even in dogs with neck pain alone. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:60–64)
Measurement of the cardiac silhouette in psittacines
Authors: Straub Jens , Pees Michael , Krautwald-Junghanns Maria-E.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine reference values for size of
the radiographic cardiac silhouette in healthy adult
medium-sized psittacines.

Design—Prospective case series.

Animals—46 African grey parrots (Psittacus erythacus),
7 Senegal parrots (Poicephalus senegalis), and
6 orange-winged Amazon parrots (Amazona amazonica).

Procedure—Birds were anesthetized, and ventrodorsal
radiographic projections were obtained. Maximum
width of the cardiac silhouette, width of the thorax at
the level of the maximum width of the cardiac silhouette,
and width of the coracoid were measured on the
radiographs. Sternum length was directly measured
on individual birds. Results of physical examination,
electrocardiography, and echocardiography were normal
in all birds.

Results—Mean cardiac silhouette width-to-sternum
length ratio was 38%, mean cardiac silhouette widthto-
thorax width ratio was 55%, and mean cardiac silhouette
width-to-coracoid width ratio was 600%.
Width of the cardiac silhouette was strongly correlated
with length of the sternum, width of the coracoid,
and width of the thorax. No significant differences
between species were detected.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that in healthy adult medium-sized psittacines,
the cardiac silhouette on a ventrodorsal radiographic
projection should be 35 to 41% of the length of the
sternum, 51 to 61% of the width of the thorax, and
545 to 672% of the width of the coracoid. (J Am Vet
Med Assoc 2002;221:76–79)
Use of a hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying solution in cats: 72 cases (1998–2000)
Authors: Gibson Gillian R. , Callan Mary Beth , Hoffman Victoria , Giger Urs
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine clinical features and outcome associated with use of a hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying (HBOC) solution in cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—72 cats.

Procedure—Medical records of cats that received an HBOC solution were reviewed.

Results—The most common clinical signs and physical examination findings prior to infusion of the HBOC solution were associated with anemia; vomiting, neurologic signs, and respiratory abnormalities were also detected. The HBOC solution was given as a supportive measure in treatment of anemia in 70 cats, most often because compatible blood was not readily available. There were 80 separate HBOC solution infusion events (mean dose, 14.6 ml/kg [6.6 mg/lb]; mean rate of infusion, 4.8 ml/kg [2.2 ml/lb] per hour). Improvements in 37 of 43 of the more closely monitored cats included increased rectal temperature, blood hemoglobin concentration, blood pressure, appetite, and activity. Adverse events in 44 cats included pulmonary edema (n = 8), pleural effusion (21), mucous membrane discoloration (21), pigmenturia (11), vomiting (4), and neurologic abnormalities (4). Twenty-three cats were discharged from the hospital, and 49 cats died or were euthanatized. Necropsy examination of 23 cats did not reveal evidence of renal or hepatic toxicosis associated with HBOC administration.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although administration of an HBOC solution may provide temporary support to anemic cats, the development of pulmonary edema or pleural effusion potentially associated with rapid infusion rate and large volume of infusion of the HBOC solution should be investigated further before use of the solution can be recommended in cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:96–102)
Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia in cats: 34 cases (1991–2001)
Authors: Schmiedt Chad W. , Tobias Karen M. , Stevenson M. A. McCrackin
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine whether signalment, duration of hernia, clinical signs, contents of hernia, CBC and serum biochemical abnormalities, concurrent injuries, perioperative treatment and administration of analgesics, results of intraoperative anesthetic monitoring data, or level of training of the veterinarian performing the herniorrhaphy was associated with mortality rate after surgical repair of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia in cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—34 cats.

Procedure—Review of medical records and a telephone follow-up with owners and referring veterinarians were performed.

Results—Mean age of affected cats was 3.6 years; cats that survived to the time of discharge were significantly younger than cats that died or were euthanatized. Tachypnea was the most common clinical sign at hospital admission; cats that survived to the time of discharge had significantly higher respiratory rates than cats that died or were euthanatized after surgery. Postoperative complications developed in 50% of cats; tachypnea and dyspnea were most common. Mortality rate was not associated with duration of hernia or results of preoperative CBC and serum biochemical analyses, but was significantly associated with concurrent injuries. Mortality rate was not associated with hernia contents, intraoperative use of positive inotropes or corticosteroids, episodes of hypotension or severe hypoxia during anesthesia, or level of training of the veterinarian performing the surgery.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cats that are older or have low to mildly increased respiratory rates and concurrent injuries are more likely to die after surgical repair of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:1237–1240)
West Nile Virus encephalomyelitis in horses: 46 cases (2001)
Authors: Porter Michael B. , Long Maureen T. , Getman Liberty M. , Giguère Steeve , MacKay Robert J. , Lester Guy D. , Alleman A. Richard , Wamsley Heather L. , Franklin Robert P. , Jacks Stephanie , Buergelt Claus D. , Detrisac Carol J.
Published: July 2006

Objective—To determine signalment, clinical findings,
results of diagnostic testing, outcome, and postmortem
findings in horses with West Nile virus
(WNV) encephalomyelitis.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—46 horses with WNV encephalomyelitis.

Procedure—Clinical data were extracted from medical
records of affected horses.

Results—On the basis of clinical signs and results of
serologic testing, WNV encephalomyelitis was diagnosed
in 46 of 56 horses with CNS signs. Significantly
more males than females were affected. Increased
rectal temperature, weakness or ataxia, and muscle
fasciculations were the most common clinical signs.
Paresis was more common than ataxia, although both
could be asymmetrical and multifocal. Supportive
treatment included anti-inflammatory medications,
fluids, antimicrobials, and slinging of recumbent horses.
Results of the IgM capture ELISA and the plaque
reduction neutralization test provided a diagnosis in
43 horses, and only results of the plaque reduction
neutralization test were positive in 3 horses. Mortality
rate was 30%, and 71% of recumbent horses were
euthanatized. One horse that had received 2 vaccinations
for WNV developed the disease and was euthanatized.
Follow-up communications with 19 owners
revealed that most horses had residual deficits at 1
month after release from the hospital; abnormalities
were resolved in all but 2 horses by 12 months after
release.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Our findings
were similar to those of previous WNV outbreaks in
horses but provided additional clinical details from
monitored hospitalized horses. Diagnostic testing is
essential to diagnosis, treatment is supportive, and
recovery rate of discharged ambulatory horses is
< 100%. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:1241–1247)