bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of copper and iron on neutrophil function and humoral immunity of gestating beef cattle
Authors: Niederman Caroline N. , Blodgett Dennis , Eversole Dan , Schurig Gerhardt G. , Thatcher Craig D.
Published: December 2023

Eighty gestating beef cattle were used to determine the effect of trace mineral salt mixtures containing copper (Cu) and iron (Fe) on selected immune functions and factors affecting copper bioavailability. Pastured cattle were randomly assigned to receive one of the following combinations of Cu and Fe in the free-choice trace mineral salt: (1) 0 mg of Cu/0 mg of Fe/kg of trace mineral salt, (2) 1,600 mg of Cu (CuSO4)/3,000 mg of Fe/kg of trace mineral salt, (3) 1,600 mg of Cu (CuSO4)/0 mg of Fe/kg of trace mineral salt, and (4) 1,600 mg of Cu (CuCO3)/3,000 mg of Fe/kg of trace mineral salt. Total Cu/Fe consumption (from trace mineral salt) was 2/678, 193/1,050, 162/553, and 202/1,140 mg/head/d, respectively, for the 4 groups. After a 1-month period of acclimation and also on day 28 of the 36-day study, copper concentrations in serum were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in group 1 than in groups 3 and 4. Serum copper concentrations did not increase with time for any group, whereas hepatic copper concentrations increased significantly (P < 0.05) with time for all groups except group 1. Hepatic iron concentrations were similar among groups at the time of the initial and final hepatic biopsies on days 0 and 28, respectively. Hepatic iron concentrations increased significantly (P < 0.05) with time in groups 3 and 4.

Humoral response to chicken γ-globulin was high but did not differ among groups on any of the days analyzed. Neutrophil function tests, consisting of hydrogen peroxide production, phagocytosis of latex particles, calcium uptake, and superoxide production, were different only for phagocytosis among groups; the percentage of neutrophils phagocytizing latex beads was significantly (P < 0.05) lower for group 2 than the other groups. A similar reduction in phagocytosis was prevented by the omission of additional Fe from the trace mineral salt (groups 1 and 3) or use of CuCO3 (group 4).
Enteroplication for the prevention of intussusception recurrence in dogs: 31 cases (1978–1992)
Authors: Oakes Matt G. , Lewis Daniel D. , Hosgood Giselle , Beale Brian S.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 31 dogs that had undergone surgery for correction of intussusception during a 14-year period were reviewed. Enteroplication was performed on 9 dogs during the initial surgery, and intussusception did not recur in any of these dogs. Intussusceptions recurred in 6 of 22 dogs without enteroplication. Five of these dogs had undergone resection of the primary lesion and anastomosis and 1 dog had undergone manual reduction of the intussusception. Intussusceptions recurred proximal to the initial lesion in 4 dogs, and at the same site in 2 dogs. Enteroplication was performed in 4 dogs following surgical correction of recurrence of an intussusception, and further recurrences were not seen in any of these dogs. Enteroplication did not cause any apparent adverse effects and decreased the probability of recurrence of intussusception in these dogs.
Peritonitis associated with Actinobacillus equuli in horses: 15 cases (1982–1992)
Authors: Golland Lorraine C. , Hodgson David R. , Hodgson Jennifer L. , Brownlow Margaret A. , Hutchins David R. , Rawlinson Robert J. , Collins Mark B. , McClintock Stephen A. , Raisis Anthea L.
Published: December 2023

Peritonitis attributable to Actinobacillus equuli was diagnosed in 15 horses examined at the veterinary center between 1982 and 1992. In 13 horses, historical findings included acute onset of mild to severe signs of abdominal pain, lethargy, and inappetence. Two other horses had a history of weight loss for 3 to 6 weeks prior to examination. Diagnosis was based on the physical signs and laboratory findings, including results of peritoneal fluid analysis (gross characteristics, total protein, total and differential nucleated cell counts, and morphologic findings) and culture of A equuli. Actinobacillus equuli was consistently susceptible in vitro to penicillin, trimethoprim/sulfadiazine, and aminoglycosides. All horses in the study had marked clinical improvement within 24 to 48 hours of commencing antibiotic and supportive treatment. Antibiotic treatment was continued for variable periods, depending on the horse, but ranged from 5 to 21 days. In 11 horses for which follow-up information was available, long-term response to treatment was excellent, with horses returning to original activity.
Urinary α-amylase and serum macroamylase activities in dogs with proteinuria
Authors: Corazza Michele , Tognetti Rosalba , Guidi Grazia , Buonaccorsi Alfredo
Published: December 2023

Activities of urinary α-amylase and serum macroamylase; concentrations of serum creatinine, immunocomplexes, and urinary protein; and patterns of proteinuria were determined in 35 dogs with proteinuria. Urinary α-amylase activity ranged from 37 to 4,031 U/L. Macroamylasemia was detected in 77.14% of dogs and the percentage of α-amylase precipitated ranged from 4.68 to 61.63. Serum α-amylase activity after immunoglobulin precipitation ranged from 654 to 6,390 U/L in 51.42% of the dogs; the values were higher than the reference limits. Concentrations of serum creatinine and immunocomplexes were higher than reference limits for 25.71 and 60% of dogs, respectively. Urinary protein concentrations ranged from 0.1 to 8.9 g/L· All the patterns of proteinuria were represented. Linear regression indicated correlations between urinary α-amylase activities, serum creatinine concentrations (P < 0.01), and concentration of immunocomplexes (P < 0.05). Mann-Whitney test indicated significantly higher urinary α-amylase activity (P < 0.02) and percentage of α-amylase precipitated (P < 0.05) in dogs with renal insufficiency.
New technique and management guidelines for percutaneous nonendoscopic tube gastrostomy
Authors: Mauterer John V. , Abood Sarah K. , Buffington C. A. , Smeak Daniel D.
Published: December 2023

A percutaneous nonendoscopic gastrostomy tube placement device and a new technique for nonendoscopic gastric feeding tube placement were developed for use in animais weighing < 15 kg. After a successful experimental trial in 7 cats, the tube placement device was used in 8 clinical animals (7 cats and 1 dog). All gastrostomy feeding tubes were placed on the first attempt within 10 minutes. Position of the tube was evaluated by endoscopy in 14 of 15, by radiography in 4 of 15, and by celiotomy and necropsy in 2 of 15 animals, respectively. Placement was comparable to the percutaneous endoscopic technique in all but 1 cat. In this animal, the tube had to be placed exiting the skin in a caudoventral location because of severe panniculitis. Complications related to the use of the tube placement device were not observed. Complications related to gastrostomy tube management developed in 5 of 15 animals. The prevalence of clinically important or life-threatening complications (peritonitis or premature removal) was 3 of 15.
Evaluation of serum estradiol concentrations in alopecic ferrets with adrenal gland tumors
Authors: Wagner Robert A. , Dorn David P.
Published: December 2023

Seventeen ferrets were examined because of progressive bilaterally symmetric alopecia that was nonpruritic. Dermatologic and endocrinologic testing were used to determine the cause of the alopecia. Resting cortisol, testosterone, and thyroxin concentrations and results of acth stimulation tests were found to be within reference range limits established for this species. High serum estradiol concentrations were found to be a reliable indicator of adrenal cortical neoplasia in these ferrets.
Effect of exogenous prostaglandin F2α in clinically normal postparturient dairy cows with a palpable corpus luteum
Authors: Gay John M. , Upham G. Lynn
Published: December 2023

In 228 clinically normal cows with a palpable corpus luteum 20 to 40 days after parturition and a mean 305-day mature equivalent milk production of 8,970 kg, prostaglandin F2α was administered in a randomized, controlled clinical trial to determine whether such treatment enhanced their subsequent reproductive performance. Although the treatment reduced median time to first breeding by 4.5 days (P = 0.0025) from 57.0 days, median time to conception was not significantly different between the treatment and nontreated control group (87.0 vs 88.5 days) and conception rate by 110 days after parturition was not significantly different (64.7 vs 69.6%). Use of prostaglandin was associated with a significant (P = 0.0459) decrease in conception rate at first breeding from 42.0 to 29.3%. This study suggested that prostaglandin treatment of cows with a normal reproductive tract and a palpable corpus luteum at a median of 25 days after parturition does not enhance their reproductive performance and thus is not cost-effective.
Evaluation of prognostic factors for dogs with synovial sarcoma: 36 cases (1986–1991)
Authors: Vail David M. , Powers Barbara E. , Getzy David M. , Morrison Wallace B. , McEntee Margaret C. , O’Keefe Deborah A. , Norris Alan M. , Withrow Stephen J.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 36 dogs with synovial sarcoma confirmed by microscopic examination of h&e-stained sections of tissue were selected for retrospective analysis from dogs admitted between 1986 and 1991 to participating institutions of the Veterinary Cooperative Oncology Group. Metastasis was evident at the time of diagnosis in 8 (22%) dogs, and 15 (41%) dogs ultimately developed metastatic tumors. Median survival time for all dogs, as determined by lije-table analysis, was 17 months. For dogs that were subsequently treated and became tumor free, the median disease-free interval was 30 months. Nine dogs had previously had localized excision attempted, but all had recurrence of the tumor locally (median, 4.5 months). Of 29 dogs that underwent amputation, including the 9 with localized recurrence, 2 had tumor recurrence on the amputation stump. Most dogs had survival time and disease-free interval of > 36 months after amputation. Four dogs that had received chemotherapy for tumors of advanced clinical stages did not respond to treatment. One dog that had received locally applied radiotherapy after localized excision did not have evidence of tumor recurrence 2 years after radiotherapy. Clinical stage, histologic grade, and a positive result for tests that used cytokeratin immunohistochemical staining significantly (P < 0.05) influenced survival time and disease-free interval. Analysis of data for the study reported here suggested that histologic criteria can be an excellent predictor of dogs that are likely to have tumor recurrence after amputation and that would most likely benefit from aggressive treatment with adjuvants.
Surgeons’ preferences in treating cranial cruciate ligament ruptures in dogs
Authors: Korvick Donna L. , Johnson Ann L. , Schaeffer David J.
Published: December 2023

To characterize veterinary surgeons’ preferences in diagnostic, surgical, and postoperative management of cranial cruciate ligament ruptures in dogs, 175 surgeons, including American College of Veterinary Surgeons diplomates, surgery specialty-practice veterinarians, university surgeons, and surgery residents, were surveyed. Their experience with stifle surgery was evenly distributed from 1 to > 21 years. Approximately 70% (118/175) of surgeons treated 3 to 9 dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture each month. In diagnosis, 98% (172/175) of the surgeons used a cranial drawer test with the stifle joint at 140° of flexion. Stifle radiography was performed by 53% (93/175) of surgeons for acute and by 81% (141/175) of surgeons for chronic cases. In repair of cranial cruciate ligament ruptures, 32% (56/175) of surgeons did not use intra-articular procedures, whereas 8% (14/175) of surgeons did not use extra-articular procedures. Surgical preferences depended on dog size (P < 0.05). For small dogs (ie, < 11 kg), 80% (140/175) of surgeons used extra-articular methods, and 14% (24/175) used intra-articular methods. For medium dogs (ie, 11 to 29 kg), 52% (91/175) of surgeons used extraarticular and 43% (75/175) used intra-articular methods. For large dogs (ie, > 29 kg), surgeons’ preferences depended on the injury’s duration (P < 0.05). For large dogs with acute injuries, 39% (68/175) preferred extra-articular and 55% (96/175) preferred intra-articular, whereas in chronic cases, 52% (91/175) preferred extra-articular and 42% (73/175) preferred intra-articular. The most common extra-articular method was placement of a suture from the lateral fabella to a hole drilled in the tibial tuberosity. Nylon and polypropylene were the most common sutures used for extra-articular repairs. Placement of fascia lata over the lateral femoral condyle (over-the-top technique) was the most common intra-articular method. Seventy percent (83/119) of surgeons used sutures to attach the graft, whereas 30% (36/119) used a screw and spiked washer. In general, surgeons combined more surgical procedures for extra-articular repairs and fewer for intra-articular repairs. Most surgeons immobilized the affected joint for ≤ 3 weeks following surgery, however, 23% (52/224) of bandaging choices were to opt for no joint immobilization. Following surgery, house confinement and restricted activity for ≤ 12 weeks was preferred by 87% (152/175) of surgeons.
Sonographic findings in horses with mediastinal lymphosarcoma: 13 cases (1985–1992)
Authors: Garber Jenifer L. , Reef Virginia B. , Reimer Johanna M.
Published: December 2023

Sonographic findings correlated with necropsy findings in 8 of 9 horses in which the cranial portion of the mediastinum was evaluated by use of both methods. Cranial mediastinal masses were imaged as multilobular and homogeneously hypoechoic; a complex echogenic pattern was observed with necrosis within the mass. Pleural effusion was a common finding in horses with mediastinal lymphosarcoma. Cytologic evaluation of pleural fluid samples was useful in diagnosis of lymphosarcoma in 10 of 12 horses that had thoracentesis. Sonographic examination of the thorax and cranial portion of the mediastinum can aid in the diagnosis of mediastinal lymphosarcoma in horses. Such examination should be performed in horses with clinical signs of cranial vena cava obstruction in which pleural effusion is detected, or when thoracic lymphosarcoma is suspected.
Rabies surveillance in the United States during 1993
Authors: Krebs John W. , Strine Tara W. , Smith Jean S. , Rupprecht Charles E. , Childs James E.
Published: December 2023

In 1993, 49 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico reported 9,495 cases of rabies in nonhuman animals and 3 cases in human beings to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Greater than 93% (8,889 cases) were wild animals, whereas 6.4% (606 cases) were domestic species. The total number of reported cases increased 9.9% over that of 1992 (8,645 cases), with most of the increase resulting from continued spread of rabies in raccoons (37.1% increase in reported cases over 1992). The 2 epizootics of rabies in raccoons (Northeastern/mid-Atlantic and Southeastern regions) approach convergence in North Carolina (106 cases of rabies in 1993, compared with 49 in 1992). Maine, Rhode Island, and Vetmont remained the only New England states without reported cases associated with the raccoon variant of the rabies virus. New York reported 2,747 cases of rabies, the largest number of cases ever reported during a single year by any state. Increases in reported cases of rabies in Texas and 8 other geographically dispersed states were attributed mainly to larger numbers of reported cases of rabies in bats. Texas reported 71 of the 74 cases in coyotes during 1993 (70 of 75 cases in 1992). Nationally, reported cases of rabies in dogs (130) and cattle (130) each decreased by 29% in 1993, whereas cats (291 cases in 1993, compared with 290 in 1992) continued to be the domestic animal most frequently reported rabid. Twenty-two states and Puerto Rico reported decreases in rabies in animals in 1993, compared with 20 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico in 1992. Hawaii was the only state that did not report a case of rabies in 1993.
Evaluation of factors associated with postoperative ileus in horses: 31 cases (1990–1992)
Authors: Blikslager Anthony T. , Bowman Karl F. , Levine Jay F. , Bristol David G. , Roberts Malcolm C.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of horses that underwent surgical treatment for colic between 1990 and 1992 were reviewed. Horses with a pulse rate of ≥ 60 beats/min or signs of abdominal pain, which were also accompanied by a volume of > 2 L of material that refluxed from the stomach during the postoperative period (excluding horses with anterior enteritis), comprised the postoperative ileus (poi) group. Horses that had < 2 L of material reflux during the postoperative period and survived > 3 days after surgery comprised the reference population. The association of preoperative and intraoperative clinical variables with development of poi was evaluated by use of logistic regression analysis.

Of 148 horses, 117 were assigned to the reference population, and 31 (21%) developed poi. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine that pcv, pulse rate, type and location of lesion detected during surgery, and serum glucose concentration were the most important variables associated with development of poi. Time of recovery from anesthesia to development of poi was 0.5 to 120 hours (median, 13 hours). Duration of poi was 1 to 7 days (median, 1 day). Four of 31 (13%) horses with poi died. Of 148 horses, only 10 (7%) died; however, 4 of the 10 (40%) deaths in the short-term postoperative period were attributable to poi.
Detection of platelet-bound and serum platelet-bindable antibodies for diagnosis of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in dogs
Authors: Lewis David C. , Meyers Kenneth M. , Callan M. Beth , Bücheler Jörg , Giger Urs
Published: December 2023

The sensitivity and specificity of 2 antibody tests for diagnosis of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (itp) in dogs were investigated prospectively. An elisa to detect antibodies bound to the surface of platelets from affected dogs (direct test) was performed in 34 dogs with a clinical diagnosis of itp and in 21 dogs with thrombocytopenia attributable to other causes. An elisa to detect platelet-bindable antibodies in serum from affected dogs (indirect test) was performed in 32 dogs with itp and in 15 dogs with other causes of thrombocytopenia. The direct test was positive in 32 of 34 dogs with itp (sensitivity, 94%) and negative in 13 of 21 dogs with other causes of thrombocytopenia (specificity, 62%). Positive direct test results were obtained in 2 dogs with systemic lupus erythematosus, and in 1 dog each with concurrent Ehrlichia canis and Babesia canis infections, dirofilariasis, myelodysplasia, disseminated intravascular coagulation (of unknown cause), and thrombocytopenia subsequent to administration of trimethoprim/sulfadiazine, as well as in 1 dog with thrombocytopenia 14 days after a whole blood transfusion. The indirect test had positive results in 11 of 32 dogs with itp (sensitivity, 34%) and negative results in 12 of 15 dogs with other causes of thrombocytopenia (specificity, 80%). Positive indirect test results were obtained in 1 dog each with systemic lupus erythematosus, concurrent E canis and B canis infections, and thrombocytopenia subsequent to administration of trimethoprim/sulfadiazine. Detection of platelet-bound antibodies was more sensitive than detection of serumplatelet bindable antibodies in confirming a diagnosis of itp in dogs. Neither test was specific for itp. Therefore, a negative test result for platelet-bound antibodies in dogs with thrombocytopenia is helpful in excluding itp as a cause of thrombocytopenia; however, a positive test result is not specific for itp, and other causes of immune-mediated thrombocytopenia must be excluded to establish a diagnosis of itp.
Concordance of ultrasonographic and physical findings in cattle with an umbilical mass or suspected to have infection of the umbilical cord remnants: 32 cases (1987-1989)
Authors: Staller Gregory S. , Tulleners Eric P. , Reef Virginia B. , Spencer Pamela A.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 32 cattle treated for umbilical abnormalities that had undergone ultrasonographic examination of the umbilicus followed by umbilical resection or postmortem examination were reviewed. Thirty of the cattle were between 6 and 240 days old (mean, 73 days); the remaining 2 cattle were a 3-year-old bull and a 5-year-old cow. Thirty (94%) animals had external evidence of infection associated with the umbilicus. Two calves did not have external signs of infection; 1 had an abscess of the urachus and the other was found to be normal.

Two-dimensional real-time ultrasonography was used to identify abnormal umbilical cord remnants. Ultrasonographic results were most reliable for the urachus, and the urachus was the most commonly affected internal umbilical cord remnant. Statistical agreement between ultrasonographic and physical (surgical or postmortem) findings was good to excellent for all umbilical structures. Intra-abdominal adhesions were found at surgery in 47% of animals with umbilical abnormalities; however, adhesions were not detected ultrasonographically.
Vertebral scale system to measure canine heart size in radiographs
Authors: Buchanan James W. , Bücheler Jörg
Published: December 2023

A method for measuring canine heart size in radiographs was developed on the basis that there is a good correlation between heart size and body length regardless of the conformation of the thorax. The lengths of the long and short axes of the heart of 100 clinically normal dogs were determined with calipers, and the dimensions were scaled against the length of vertebrae dorsal to the heart beginning with T4. The sum of the long and short axes of the heart expressed as vertebral heart size was 9.7 ± 0.5 vertebrae. The differences between dogs with a wide or deep thorax, males and females, and right or left lateral recumbency were not significant. The caudal vena cava was 0.75 vertebrae ± 0.13 in comparison to the length of the vertebra over the tracheal bifurcation.
Contamination and infection of fractures resulting from gunshot trauma in dogs: 20 cases (1987-1992)
Authors: Doherty Maria A. , Smith Mark M.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 20 dogs with gunshot fractures were reviewed to determine the prevalence of preoperative contamination and postoperative osteomyelitis. Fractures were repaired primarily by application of a bone plate (n = 16) or external fixator (n = 2) in buttress fashion or application of interfragmentary screws and pins (n = 2). In 17 dogs, an autogenous bone graft was also used. Results of bacteriologic culture of swab specimens obtained intraoperatively for 15 of the 16 dogs that received antimicrobials preoperatively and for all 4 dogs that did not receive antimicrobials preoperatively were negative. Three dogs developed osteomyelitis at 6, 8, and 10 weeks following surgery; for all 3, results of bacteriologic culture of specimens obtained intraoperatively had been negative. Fracture healing was uncomplicated in the remaining dogs (mean follow-up time, 23 months; range, 2 to 58 months). Despite the potential for contamination associated with gunshot trauma, results indicated a low prevalence of preoperative fracture contamination and postoperative osteomyelitis. These results imply either a low contamination rate or treatable contamination of the perifracture area.
Case-control study of the association between various management factors and development of colic in horses
Authors: Cohen Noah D. , Matejka Patti L. , Honnas Clifford M. , Hooper R. Neil
Published: December 2023

The association between various management factors and development of colic was studied in 821 horses treated for colic and 821 control horses treated for noncolic emergencies by practicing veterinarians in Texas between Oct 1, 1991 and Dec 31, 1992. History of previous colic and history of previous abdominal surgery were found to be significantly associated with colic. Change in stabling conditions during the 2 weeks prior to the time of examination, recent change in diet, and recent change in level of activity significantly increased the risk for development of colic. Changes in activity level, diet, and stabling conditions were identified as potentially alterable risk factors for colic. Logistic regression was used to adjust for the effects of all variables found to be significantly associated with colic by means of univariate analysis, and only history of previous colic, history of previous abdominal surgery, and history of recent change in diet remained significantly associated with colic. Results of this study indicate that a proportion of colic cases might be prevented by minimizing changes in management practices.
Transection of the accessory ligament of the superficial digital flexor muscle for the treatment of superficial digital flexor tendinitis in Standardbreds: 40 cases (1988-1992)
Authors: Hawkins Jan F. , Ross Michael W.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 40 racing Standardbreds with superficial digital flexor tendinitis that underwent transection of the accessory ligament of the superficial digital flexor (sdf) muscle (superior check desmotomy) were reviewed. Surgery was performed bilaterally in 32 horses and unilaterally in 8. Concurrent palmar annular desmotomy was performed in 8 horses in which tendinitis involved the distal metacarpal region and confinement of the deep and sdf tendons by the annular ligament was suspected.

Follow-up information was obtained for 32 horses, by telephone, and racing results were available for 39 horses (1 horse is currently in training, but had a qualifying race prior to surgery). Tendinitis recurred in 8 of 32 (25%) horses that returned to training. Thirty-five of 38 (92%) horses started at least 1 race after surgery. Mean ± sd time between surgery and first race was 237 ± 86 days. Overall, 33 of 38 horses completed 5 or more races after surgery; however, sdf tendinitis recurred in 6, and treatment was, therefore, considered to be successful in 27 horses. Horses started a median of 18 races after surgery. Median amount of money won per start after surgery (median, $418; range, $0 to $4,626) was significantly less than median amount won per start before surgery (median, $1,155; range, $0 to $14,603). Inflammation of the interosseous muscle (Suspensory ligament) developed in 5 horses with bilateral sdf tendinitis and in 2 horses with unilateral sdf tendinitis. All horses with inflammation of the interosseous muscle had undergone bilateral superior check desmotomy.
Large colon impaction in horses: 147 cases (1985-1991)
Authors: Dabareiner Robin M. , White Nathaniel A.
Published: December 2023

Medical records from all horses with large colon impaction admitted between 1985 and 1991 were examined. Large colon impaction was diagnosed in 147 of 1,100 (13.4%) horses with colic. One hundred thirty horses were admitted for further evaluation of acute onset of abdominal pain after having been examined and treated by referring veterinarians, and 17 horses that were hospitalized for unrelated medical problems developed large colon impaction. Female horses (92/ 147; 62.6%) were more commonly affected than males. The age ranged from 1 to 29 years (median, 7.1 years). Mean duration of clinical signs of abdominal pain prior to referral was 32 hours. At admittance, signs of abdominal pain were not detectable in 70/147 (48%) horses, and were mild in 50 34%), moderate in 16 (11%), and severe in 11 (7%). Heart rate ranged from 30 to 86 beats/min (median, 44 beats/min), and most horses had a decrease in gastrointestinal sounds. Transrectal palpation was used to identify the impaction location as being the pelvic flexure in 103 (70.1%) horses, colon on the left side in 30 (20.4%) horses, and colon on the right side in 14 (9.5%) horses. All 147 horses received fluids iv and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or sedatives, including flunixin meglumine (124 horses, 84.3%) xylazine hydrochloride (81, 55%), butorphanol (6, 0.04%), and detomidine hydrochloride (9, 0.04%). Duration of medical treatment required to resolve the impaction ranged from 1 to 6 days (mean, 2 days). In addition to medical treatment, 24 (16.3%) horses also required surgery.

Analysis of results of examinations performed at the time of admission revealed significant (P < 0.05) differences for heart rate, respiratory rate, number of wbc, blood lactate concentration, and total protein concentration in peritoneal fluid between horses that lived vs horses that died or were euthanatized. Horses that had surgery had a significantly (P < 0.05) higher fatality rate. Long-term survival rate was higher (P $ 0.05) for horses treated medically.

Most horses with large colon impaction can be treated medically, and those horses have a good prognosis. Surgery usually is not necessary and may pose additional risks because of the possibility of bowel rupture during the operation.
Reactivity to intradermal injections of extracts of house dust and housedust mite in healthy dogs and dogs suspected of being atopic
Authors: Codner Ellen C. , Tinker Mary Kay
Published: December 2023

Fifty dogs underwent intradermal allergy testing with housedust mite and house dust extracts, using concentrations recommended by the manufacturer. Twelve dogs (group I) were healthy dogs obtained from a pound; 12 dogs (group II) were healthy, privately owned dogs; 15 dogs (group III) were suspected of being atopic and had had multiple positive reactions to intradermal injections of allergens of specific trees, weeds, grasses, or molds; and 11 dogs (group IV) were suspected of being atopic, but only had had positive reactions to intradermal injections of housedust mite, house dust, and flea antigen extracts. Use of the concentrations of housedust mite and house dust extracts currently recommended for intradermal allergy testing resulted in false-positive reactions in 14 of 24 (58%) and 12 of 24 (50%) healthy dogs tested, respectively. Differences in number of dogs with positive reactions or grade of reaction to housedust mite or house dust allergens were not detected between groups of healthy dogs (groups I vs II), between groups of suspected atopic dogs (groups III vs IV), or between healthy dogs and dogs suspected of being atopic (groups I and II vs III and IV). Therefore, clinical importance of positive results of intradermal allergy testing of house dust or housedust mite allergens was equivocal for dogs suspected of being atopic.

Threshold concentrations for intradermal allergy testing were determined in 24 healthy dogs (group I and II) by intradermal administration of 5 dilutions each of housedust mite extract and house dust extract. Positive test results to various concentrations of housedust mite extract were observed in 22 dogs at 1:1,000 wiv, 14 dogs at 1:5,000 wiv, 5 dogs at 1:10,000 ww, 4 dogs at 1:25,000 wv, and 1 dog at 1:50,000 ww. Positive test results to various concentrations of house dust extract were observed in 21 dogs at 500 protein nitrogen units (pnu)/ml, 12 dogs at 100 pnu/ml, and 3 dogs at 50 pnu/ml, but none of the dogs had positive results at 20 and 10 pnu/ml, respectively.

Threshold concentrations for housedust mite (1:50,000 w/v) and house dust (20 pnu/ml) extracts were subsequently used for intradermal allergy testing of 9 dogs (group V) that were considered to be atopic and that had had multiple positive test results after intradermal injection of specific allergens. Positive reactions to intradermal injections of threshold concentrations of housedust mite and house dust extracts were observed in 6 of 9 and 7 of 9 atopic dogs, respectively. Analysis of the results was suggestive that house dust and housedust mite extracts can be properly diluted to threshold concentrations for intradermal allergy testing without adversely affecting their diagnostic value. Lower concentrations of housedust mite and house dust extracts than are currently recommended should be used for intradermal allergy testing to avoid false-positive results.
Zoonotic hantaviruses: New concerns for the United States
Authors: Weigler Benjamin J.
Published: December 2023

Hantaviruses have emerged as agents of significant morbidity and mortality in human beings. These pathogens are maintained in nature as not clinically apparent, persistent infections in rodent reservoirs, varying with each virus, and are shed via rodent feces, urine, and salivary excretions. Human exposure to hantaviruses principally occurs through the respiratory tract route and is focal and discontinuous, paralleling the distribution of virus in reservoir species and the likelihood of human-rodent interactions. Prior to 1993, hantaviruses were established etiologic agents of human febrile nephropathies and hematologic abnormalities on several continents, exclusive of North America. An episode of severe respiratory tract illness developed in association with a group of novel hantaviruses in the United States during 1993-1994, resulting in at least 98 confirmed cases of disease from 21 states and 51 deaths. Current evidence suggests that hantaviruses of zoonotic potential have long existed across widespread areas of the United States but have gone un-recognized.
Effect of penicillin or penicillin and dexamethasone in cattle with infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Allen Larry J. , George Lisle W. , Willits Neil H.
Published: December 2023

To evaluate the efficacy of penicillin or penicillin and dexamethasone for treatment of infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis, 6- to 8-month-old beef heifers with clinical signs of infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups: penicillin only, penicillin and dexamethasone, or control. Cattle assigned to the penicillin group (n = 18) were treated with 3 daily subconjunctival injections of procaine penicillin G. Cattle assigned to the penicillin/ dexamethasone group (n = 13) were treated with 3 daily subconjunctival injections of procaine penicillin G and dexamethasone sodium phosphate. Control cattle (n = 14) were not treated. Healing times and frequency of recurrence for corneal ulcers; severity, diameter, and surface area measurements of corneal ulcers; and clinical scores did not differ among the 3 groups. Frequency of Moraxella bovis isolation from specimens of ocular secretions from ulcerated and nonulcerated eyes was similar in all groups. Minimum inhibitory concentration of penicillin G for 95 of the 102 tested M bovis isolates was 0.3 U/ml, and for 7 others was 0.03 U/ml. When first and last specimens from 42 of 45 calves with isolation of M bovis on serial microbial cultures were compared, the susceptibility of each last isolate was similar to that of the corresponding first isolate.
Results of ophthalmic examinations of 29 alpacas
Authors: Gelatt Kirk N. , Martinic Gerardo B. Otzen , Flaneig Jose Leal , Schein Oliver D. , Muñoz Beatriz , West Sheila K. , Duncan Donald D. , Nethercott James R. , Koren Hillel S.
Published: December 2023

Analysis of the results of ophthalmic examinations of 29 alpacas (Lama pacos) revealed a direct relationship among coat color, iris color, and ocular fundus pigmentation. Alpacas with light-pigmented coats had iris color that included combinations of gray, blue, and brown, and had reduced pigmentation of the ocular fundi. Alpacas with dark coats had brown irides and pigmented ocular fundi. Eleven alpacas had evidence of ophthalmic conditions, including bilateral conjunctivitis (1); formation of a superficial corneal scar (1); formation of posterior synechiae and anterior cataracts (4); development of a deep corneal scar with anterior synechiae, buphthalmia, a subluxated lens, and cataracts (1); development of focal incipient primary cataracts (2); formation of vitreous opacities (1); and development of a unilateral optic nerve coloboma (1).
Comparison of the efficacies of three heartworm preventives against experimentally induced infections with Ancylostoma caninum and Toxocara canis in pups
Authors: Reinemeyer Craig R. , Faulkner Charles T. , Assadi-Rad Amir M. , Burr J. Hilty , Patton Sharon
Published: December 2023

Forty 11- to 12-week-old helminth-naive Beagles were categorized by sex and weight and randomly assigned to 4 treatment groups (group 1, ivermectin/ pyrantel pamoate; group 2, milbemycin oxime; group 3, untreated control; group 4, diethylcarbamazine/ oxibendazole). Each pup was inoculated po with approximately 100 infective Ancylostoma caninum larvae and 100 larvated Toxocara canis eggs on day 0, and repeatedly at 7-day intervals thereafter until day 56. Administration of anthelmintics also began on day 0, and subsequent treatments were administered according to label recommendations at 30-day intervals (groups 1 and 2) or daily (group 4) for a period of 90 consecutive days.

Body weight and A caninum and T canis fecal egg counts were measured at weekly intervals, and clinical observations of health status were conducted twice daily. Pups were euthanatized on day 90, and total gastrointestinal worm burdens were determined.

Compared with the mean A caninum egg counts of group-3 control pups, egg counts in group-1 pups were significantly (P ≤ 0.0001) lower on every sampling date from day 28 to 90, egg counts of group-2 pups were significantly (P ≤ 0.0001) lower on sampling days 35, 42, 49, 63, 70, 77, and 84, and were consistently the highest of all treated groups, and egg counts of group-4 pups were significantly (P ≤ 0.0001) lower on every sampling date from day 14 to day 90, and were consistently the lowest of all treated groups. Compared with mean A caninum egg counts of group-3 pups, egg counts in group-1 and group-2 pups were lower by 97.8 and 90.8%, respectively. Numbers of adult hookworms recovered at necropsy were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) lower by 99.4, 83.9, and 99.9% in groups 1, 2, and 4, respectively.

Patent T canis infections were detected in 11 of 40 pups and only 5 adult worms were recovered from 4 pups at necropsy. These findings were attributed to age resistance to T canis by maturing pups rather than to a primary pharmacologic effect.

This study identified substantial differences in the quantities of hookworm eggs in experimentally infected pups receiving ivermectin/pyrantel, milbemycin oxime, or diethylcarbamazine/oxibendazole at label dosages, but the observed performance of all products was consistent with their respective label indications.
Seizure classification in dogs from a nonreferral-based population
Authors: Podell Michael , Fenner William R. , Powers Jean D.
Published: December 2023

On initial evaluation for onset of seizure disorders at nonreferral veterinary practices, 50 previously healthy dogs were enrolled in a study to determine the probability of identifying a specific cause for the seizures. Treatment was not administered prior to entry of dogs in the study. On the basis of antemortem and postmortem test results, 22 dogs (44%) were classified as having primary epileptic seizures (pes; idiopathic or without identifiable cause), 23 (46%) had secondary epileptic seizures (ses; identifiable intracranial cause), and 5 (10%) had reactive epileptic seizures (res; metabolic or transient noxious cause). Forty-one dogs (82%) had 2 or more seizures before evaluation, with 37 (90%) of these dogs classified as having epilepsy on the basis of an underlying chronic brain disorder. For these 41 dogs, 17 (41%) had pes, 20 (49%) had ses, and 4 (10%) had res. Among the 9 dogs (18%) with nonrecurring seizures, 5 had pes, 3 had ses, and 1 had res. Generalized seizures were the most common first-observed seizure type associated with all etiologic classifications in all dogs with recurring and nonrecurring seizures.

Diagnosis of ses was statistically more probable when the dog was less than 1 or more than 7 years old at the first seizure, when the first seizure was a partial seizure, or when the first seizure occurred between midnight and 8 am. A diagnosis of res was statistically more probable only when the interval between the first and second seizure was brief (≤ 4 weeks). A diagnosis of pes was statistically more probable when the dog was between 1 and 5 years of age at the first seizure, when the dog was a large breed (> 15 kg), when the seizure occurred between 8 am and midnight, or when the interval between the first and second seizure was long (> 4 weeks).
Use of facilitated ankylosis in the treatment of septic arthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint in cattle: 12 cases (1987-1992)
Authors: Desrochers André , St-Jean Guy , Anderson David E.
Published: December 2023

Medical records were reviewed for 12 cattle with septic arthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint that were treated by use of facilitated ankylosis. Information on signalment, clinical signs, digit affected, radiographic findings, and type and duration of treatment were compiled. Owners were contacted for information about the convalescent period, reasons for culling, productivity, and outcome. Outcome was classified as successful or unsuccessful on the basis of lameness, growth pattern, and whether the cattle were subsequently productive. Cause of the septic arthritis was unknown in 9 of 12 (75%) cattle. Eleven of 12 (92%) cattle represented beef breeds. Cattle were lame for a mean of 5.3 weeks before admission. In 8 of 12 (67%) cattle, a trephine was used in the creation of an arthrostomy, the middle and distal phalanges were curetted, and the joint was lavaged with isotonic solution. A drill bit was used in 4 of 12 (33%) cattle to remove articular cartilage and facilitate ankylosis.

Convalescent period after discharge from the hospital was 1 to 7 months (mean, 4 months; median, 4 months). After that period, all cattle had an apparently normal gait. Eight of 12 (67%) cattle were maintained in their herd of origin. None of the cattle were culled because of lameness. Two of 12 (17%) cattle had a deformation of the affected digit. According to the criteria for successful outcome that were used in the study reported here, the success rate was 100%. Treatment of septic arthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint by use of facilitated ankylosis is an alternative to digit amputation and is recommended to promote longevity and productivity.
Evaluation of the pathogenic potential of Rickettsia canada and Rickettsia prowazekii organisms in dogs
Authors: Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Hegarty Barbara C. , Davidson Michael G. , Szabados Nancy S.
Published: December 2023

An unusual pattern of seroreactivity to antigens of rickettsial organisms (Rickettsia rickettsii, R rhipicephali, R montana, and R bellii), particularly to R bellii antigen, was detected in 3 dogs during a 2-month period. Thus, studies were initiated to clarify the pathogenic potential of the more distantly related rickettsial organisms (R canada and R prowazekii) in dogs. Because R bellii are nonpathogenic rickettsiae that share numerous common properties with spotted fever-group and typhus-group rickettsiae, and because closely related pathogenic relatives of R bellii have not been identified, we examined the pathogenic potential of these typhus-group rickettsiae by testing stored serum samples, by attempting rickettsial isolation from febrile dogs, and by experimentally inoculating dogs with R canada and R prowazekii.

Evaluation of results of a serosurvey of acute and convalescent serum samples from 80 dogs in which Rocky Mountain spotted fever had been considered as a differential diagnosis, but seroconversion to R rickettsii had not been documented, identified 1 dog with a fourfold increase in antibody titer to R rhipicephali and 3 dogs with fourfold increases in antibody titer to 1 or more antigens of typhus-group rickettsial organisms. A study of 15 dogs that were febrile during summer months failed to identify serologic or tissue culture evidence of typhus-group rickettsial infection or typhus-group rickettsemia, but did result in isolation of R rickettsii and Ehrlichia canis, respectively, from 1 dog each. In our final study, after experimentally inoculating 6 dogs with R canada and R prowazekii, all dogs seroconverted to the respective rickettsiae, but rickettsemia or clinical and hematologic evidence of disease was not observed.

Collectively, our results did not provide convincing evidence to support a pathogenic role for R canada and R prowazekii organisms in dogs. Our findings supported the conclusion that an unidentified microorganism, which results in production of antibodies against R bellii and antigens of typhus-group rickettsial organisms, contributed to an unexplained febrile illness of dogs in the southeastern United States. In an effort to identify dogs in which serologic evidence supports this conclusion, we recommend the use of selected spotted fever-group, typhus-group, and R bellii antigens for serodiagnostic purposes. We also recommend that diagnosticians attempt tissue culturing to isolate organisms when a rickettsial agent is suspected.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus after splenic torsion in two dogs
Authors: Millis Darryl L. , Nemzek Jean , Riggs Craig , Walshaw Richard
Published: December 2023

Anatomic changes that develop with splenic torsion, including stretching of gastric ligaments, may predispose dogs to the development of gastric dilatation-volvulus because of increased mobility of the stomach.

Prophylactic gastropexy at the time of splenectomy may reduce the chance of future gastric dilatation-volvulus in dogs.
Pheochromocytoma and hyperadrenocorticism in dogs: Six cases (1982–1992)
Authors: von Dehn Benita J. , Nelson Richard W. , Feldman Edward C. , Griffey Stephen M.
Published: December 2023

Pheochromocytoma was diagnosed in 4 dogs with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism and 2 dogs with hyperadrenocorticism caused by adrenocortical tumor. All dogs were examined initially because of clinical signs associated with hyperadrenocorticism. Pheochromocytoma was suspected in 2 dogs with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism that had ultrasonographic evidence of an adrenal gland mass, and in 1 dog suspected to have hyperadrenocorticism associated with an adrenocortical tumor after complications (systemic hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias) developed during induction of anesthesia. Pheochromocytoma was an unexpected finding at necropsy in the remaining 3 dogs. Two dogs collapsed suddenly and died before diagnostic tests could be performed; the other dog died during anesthesia for cobalt teletherapy of a pituitary macroadenoma. Hypertension, most notable during digital manipulation of the affected adrenal gland, developed during anesthesia and surgery in 3 dogs that underwent exploratory celiotomy.
Hyperlipidemia, hyperlipemia, and hepatic lipidosis in American Miniature Horses: 23 cases (1990–1994)
Authors: Mogg Tony D. , Palmer Jonathan E.
Published: December 2023

The medical records of 23 American Miniature Horses with hyperlipidemia, hyperlipemia, or hepatic lipidosis were reviewed. The most common clinical signs were anorexia and lethargy. The mean duration of clinical signs was 2.4 days. A primary disease was identified in 19 cases. Enterocolitis was the most common primary disease (n = 10). Intentional feed restriction, as part of treatment for colic, resulted in hyperlipemia in 2 horses and hyperlipidemia in 1. Four horses had primary hyperlipemia, 3 of which had signs of hepatoencephalopathy secondary to hepatic lipidosis. Dextrose, heparin, and insulin were the most common treatments. The overall survival was 61% (14/23). All horses with peak serum triglyceride concentrations > 1,200 mg/dl died or were euthanatized, whereas all but 1 with peak serum triglyceride concentrations < 1,200 mg/dl survived. These findings suggest that when American Miniature Horses, like other ponies and donkeys, are in a negative energy balance, they can rapidly develop hyperlipidemia or hyperlipemia. Early detection and treatment may improve survival.