bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iontophoretic administration of dexamethasone into the tarsocrural joint in horses
Authors: Kaneps Andris J. , Craig A. Morrie , Walker Karen C. , True Jan E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether iontophoretic administration of dexamethasone to horses results in detectable concentrations in synovial fluid, plasma, and urine.

Animals—6 adult mares.

Procedure—Iontophoresis was used to administer dexamethasone. Treatments (4 mA for 20 minutes) were administered to a tarsocrural joint of each mare. The drug electrode contained 3 ml of dexamethasone sodium phosphate at a concentration of 4 or 10 mg/ml. Samples of synovial fluid, blood, and urine were obtained before and 0.5, 4, 8, and 24 hours after each treatment. All samples were tested for dexamethasone using an ELISA. Synovial fluid also was evaluated for dexamethasone, using high-performance liquid chromatography.

Results—The lower and upper limits of detection for dexamethasone in synovial fluid with the ELISA were 0.21 and 1.5 ng/ml, respectively. Dexamethasone administered at a concentration of 10 mg/ml was detected by the ELISA in synovial fluid of 5 mares from 0.5 to 24 hours and in urine of 4 mares from 0.5 to 8 hours after each treatment, but it was not detected in plasma. Mean synovial fluid concentration of dexamethasone was 1.01 ng/ml. Dexamethasone administered at a concentration of 4 mg/ml was detected by the ELISA in urine of 2 mares at 0.5 and 4 hours after treatment, but it was not detected in synovial fluid or plasma.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Iontophoresis cannot be considered an effective method for delivery of dexamethasone to synovial fluid of horses, because drug concentrations achieved in this study were less than therapeutic concentrations. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:11–14)
Development of a sensitive immunoradiometric assay for detection of platelet surface-associated immunoglobulins in thrombocytopenic dogs
Authors: Scott Michael A. , Kaiser Lana , Davis John M. , Schwartz Kenneth A.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To develop a direct assay to measure platelet surface-associated immunoglobulins (PSAIg) in dogs and to determine whether the assay is useful in the diagnosis of immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (IMT).

Animals—20 healthy dogs were used to develop reference intervals, and 23 dogs with IMT and 17 with non-IMT were used to evaluate the clinical use of this assay.

Procedure—After optimization of platelet collection and assay conditions, concentrations of PSAIg were measured, using radiolabeled staphylococcal protein A (SpA) and polyclonal antibodies against canine IgG (anti-γ) and IgM (anti-µ). Concentrations of PSAIg were expressed as the percentage of radiolabeled immunoglobulin detector bound.

Results—Cut-off values (mean + 3 SD) were as follows: SpA, 1.1%; anti-γ, 1.3%; and anti-µ, 3.5%. Values greater than these cut-off values were considered positive. Values determined by use of radiolabeled SpA for all dogs with IMT were greater than the cut-off value; values were considered high positives (> 5 times cut-off value) for 22 of these 23 dogs. Although 9 of 17 dogs with non-IMT also had PSAIg concentrations greater than the cut-off value, values were considered high positives for only 3 of these 9 dogs.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—The immunoradiometric assay developed is a reliable and sensitive method to detect PSAIg in dogs. However, to obtain accurate results, optimum temperature, time, and storage conditions must be used. Detection of increased concentrations of PSAIg in dogs presumed to have non-IMT should alert clinicians to reconsider an immune-mediated basis for the thrombocytopenia. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:124–136)
Vertical position of the patella in the stifle joint of clinically normal large-breed dogs
Authors: Johnson Allen L. , Probst Curtis W. , DeCamp Charles E. , Rosenstein Diana S. , Hauptman Joe G. , Kern Tari L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To define the vertical position of the patella in clinically normal large-breed dogs.

Sample Population—Cadavers of 13 clinically normal large-breed dog.

Procedure—Both hind limbs were harvested with intact stifle joints and mounted on a positioning device that allowed full range of motion of the stifle joint. Lateral radiographic views were obtained with the stifle joints positioned at each of 5 angles (148°, 130°, 113°, 96°, and 75°). Vertical position of the patella through a range of motion was depicted on a graph of mean stifle angle versus corresponding mean proximal patellar position (PPP) and distal patellar position (DPP) relative to the femoral trochlea for each dog. Ratio of length of the patellar ligament to length of the patella (L:P) was determined for each dog. Overall mean, SD, and 95% confidence intervals for L:P were calculated for all dogs.

Results—Evaluation of vertical position of the patella through a range of motion revealed a nearly linear relationship between joint angle and PPP and joint angle and DPP. Evaluation of L:P results did not reveal significant differences between limbs (left or right) or among joint angles. Overall mean ± SD L:P for all dogs was 1.68 ± 0.18 (95% confidence interval, 1.33 to 2.03).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—The L:P proved to be a repeatable measurement of vertical patellar position, which is independent of stifle angles from 75° to 148°. This measurement could be used as a quantitative method for diagnosing patella alta and patella baja in large-breed dogs. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:42–46)
Relationship between incidence of gastric dilatation-volvulus and biometeorologic events in a population of military working dogs
Authors: Herbold John R. , Moore George E. , Gosch Terry L. , Bell B. Sue
Published: December 2005

Objective—To calculate the monthly incidence of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) in a population of military working dogs during a 5-year period and determine whether there was an association with synoptic climatologic indices.

Sample Population—Medical records of all military working dogs housed at Lackland Air Force Base,Tex, from Jan 1, 1993 to Dec 31, 1997.

Procedure—Confirmed cases of GDV were identified from evaluation of medical records and used to calculate incidence of GDV. Factor analysis of local climatologic data was used to classify each day into 1 of 8 meteorologically homogeneous types of days for this location. Occurrence of GDV was compared with frequency of occurrence of synoptic climatologic days.

Results—48 cases of GDV were identified from January 1993 through December 1997. Mean monthly incidence was 2.5 cases/1,000 dogs at risk (range, 0 to 18.5 cases/1,000 dogs; median, 2.5 cases/1,000 dogs). A seasonal increase in incidence of GDV was detected, because half of the episodes were during November, December, and January. An association with a specific synoptic climatologic day was not detected.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Seasonal fluctuations in incidence of GDV may be associated with external factors that precipitate physiologic changes resulting in GDV. Although a specific cause-effect relationship was not documented, clinicians must be alert for the potential of seasonal variation in incidence of GDV and accordingly heighten their index of suspicion for the condition, particularly in populations of dogs that are predisposed to development of GDV. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:47–52)
Tissue solubility of four volatile anesthetics in fresh and frozen tissue specimens from swine
Authors: Zhou Jian-Xin , Liu Jin
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine tissue solubilities of desflurane,
sevoflurane, enflurane, and halothane in swine
and to evaluate the effects of freezing specimens on
tissue solubility.

Sample Population—Arterial blood samples and
specimens of brain, heart, liver, kidney, muscle, and
subcutaneous fat from 5 healthy female adult
Chinese Meishan pigs.

Procedure—Each tissue specimen was divided into 2
parts. One part was used to measure tissue-gas partition
coefficients immediately after collection. The
other part was frozen at –20 C for 6 days prior to
determination of tissue-gas partition coefficients.
Tissue-gas and blood-gas partition coefficients were
measured by use of gas chromatography, and tissueblood
partition coefficients were calculated.
Regression analysis was performed to determine
whether fat-gas partition coefficients were correlated
with lean tissue-gas partition coefficients.

Results—Tissue-gas and blood-gas partition coefficients
of halothane were greater than those of enflurane
followed by coefficients of sevoflurane and desflurane.
However, the order of anesthetic agents with
the greatest to smallest tissue-blood partition coefficients
was sevoflurane, halothane, enflurane, and
desflurane. Muscle-gas partition coefficients of
sevoflurane and enflurane, liver-gas partition coefficients
of desflurane and halothane, and the kidneygas
partition coefficient of enflurane were significantly
greater in frozen specimens, compared with fresh
specimens. Lean tissue-gas partition coefficients of
all 4 volatile anesthetics correlated directly with fatgas
partition coefficients.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—The fat content
of lean tissue is an important factor in determining
the tissue solubility of volatile anesthetics.
Freezing specimens before determination of tissuegas
partition coefficients may result in a false increase
in tissue solubility. (Am J Vet Res 2002;63:74–77)
Facet joint geometry and intervertebral disk degeneration in the L5-S1 region of the vertebral column in German Shepherd Dogs
Authors: Seiler Gabriela S. , Häni Hansjürg , Busato André R. , Lang Johann
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the possible association between facet joint geometry and intervertebral disk degeneration in German Shepherd Dogs.

Animals—25 German Shepherd Dogs and 11 control dogs of similar body weight and condition.

Procedure—Facet joint angles in the caudal portion of the lumbar region of the vertebral column (L5-S1) were measured by use of computed tomography, and the intervertebral discs were evaluated microscopically. The relationship between facet joint geometry and disk degeneration was evaluated by use of statistical methods.

Results—German Shepherd Dogs had significantly more facet joint tropism than control dogs, but an association with disk degeneration was not found. However, German Shepherd Dogs had a different facet joint conformation, with more sagittally oriented facet joints at L5-L6 and L6-L7 and a larger angle difference between the lumbar and lumbosacral facet joints, compared with control dogs.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—A large difference between facet joint angles at L6-L7 and L7-S1 in German Shepherd Dogs may be associated with the frequent occurrence of lumbosacral disk degeneration in this breed. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:86f–90)
Cyclooxygenase selectivity of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in canine blood
Authors: Streppa Heather K. , Jones Chris J. , Budsberg Steven C.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate cyclooxygenase (COX) selectivity of several nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) in canine blood in vitro.

Animals—11 healthy adult male hound crosses.

Procedure—9 NSAID were studied at 5 concentrations. Thromboxane B2(TxB2) was assayed as a measure of COX-1 activity in clotted blood. Prostaglandin E2(PGE2) was assayed as a measure of COX-2 activity in heparinized, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated blood. All assays were competitive ELISA tests. Cyclooxygenase selectivity was expressed as a ratio of the concentration of an NSAID that inhibited 50% of the activity (IC50) of COX-1 to the IC50of COX-2. A separate ratio of the concentration that inhibited 80% of COX activity (IC80) was also determined. A ratio of < 1.0 indicated selectivity for COX-1, whereas a ratio of > 1.0 indicated COX-2 selectivity.

Results—Ketoprofen, aspirin, and etodolac were COX-1 selective. Piroxicam, meloxicam, and carprofen had COX-2 selectivity. The IC50and IC80values were similar for most NSAID.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—This methodology provides repeatable data from individual dogs and is comparable to results of previous in vitro and ex vivo models. Findings are also consistent with those of canine studies performed in vivo, suggesting that this is a viable in vitro assessment of the COX selectivity of NSAID in dogs. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:91–94)
Clinical usefulness of cardiac event recording in dogs and cats examined because of syncope, episodic collapse, or intermittent weakness: 60 cases (1997–1999)
Authors: Bright Janice M. , Cali John V.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the clinical usefulness of
cardiac event recording in evaluating dogs and cats
with unexplained syncope, episodic collapse, or intermittent
weakness.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—58 dogs and 2 cats.

Procedure—Medical records and electrocardiographic
rhythm strips obtained by cardiac event recordings
were reviewed. Cardiac rhythm data from the event
recordings were classified as diagnostic or nondiagnostic.
Diagnostic yield was calculated by dividing the
number of animals for which cardiac event recording
was diagnostic by the total number of animals undergoing
cardiac event recording.

Results—For 51 animals, cardiac event recording was
classified as diagnostic; therefore, overall diagnostic
yield was 85%. Diagnostic yield was lower for animals
without underlying structural heart disease
(75.5%) than for animals with structural heart disease
(95.6%). A specific arrhythmia was identified as the
cause of clinical signs in 18 of the 51 (35%) animals
for which cardiac event recording was diagnostic.
Cardiac arrhythmia was definitively excluded as the
cause of clinical signs in the remaining 33 (65%) animals
in which cardiac event recording was diagnostic.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate
that cardiac event recording had a high diagnostic
yield in dogs and cats examined because of unexplained
syncope, episodic collapse, or transient weakness
and ataxia, regardless of whether animals did or
did not have an underlying structural heart disease.
Diagnostic yield of cardiac event recording was higher
than that reported previously for Holter monitoring.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2000;216:1110–1114)
Breed distribution of dogs with diabetes mellitus admitted to a tertiary care facility
Authors: Hess Rebecka S. , Kass Philip H. , Ward Cynthia R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine which dog breeds are at low
and high risk for developing diabetes mellitus (DM).

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—Hospital population of 221 dogs with DM
and 42,882 dogs without DM during 5.5 years.

Procedure—165 breeds (including a mixed-breed category)
were represented in the hospital population.
Breed-specific expected numbers of dogs with DM
were calculated by multiplying the proportion of all
dogs admitted to the hospital that were determined
to have DM during the study period by the breed-specific
totals during the study period. Breeds or breed
groups evaluated in the analysis (n = 20) were restricted
to those that had a combined observed and
expected count > 5 to document breeds at low and
high risk for developing DM. Proportionate changes in
the risk of developing DM by breed were calculated
and presented using exact odds ratios, 95% confidence
intervals, and P values. Mixed-breed dogs
were chosen as the reference breed.

Results—Samoyeds, Miniature Schnauzers, Miniature
Poodles, Pugs, and Toy Poodles were at high risk
for developing DM. Dog breeds found to be at low
risk for developing DM were German Shepherd Dog,
Golden Retriever, and American Pit Bull Terrier.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—The finding
that certain dog breeds are at low or high risk for
developing DM suggests that some genetic defects
may predispose dogs to development of DM, whereas
other genetic factors may protect dogs from development
of DM. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2000;216:
1414–1417)
Idiopathic pure red cell aplasia and nonregenerative immune-mediated anemia in dogs: 43 cases (1988–1999)
Authors: Stokol Tracy , Blue Julia T. , French Tracy W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To examine clinical features, laboratory test results, treatment, and outcome of dogs with pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) and idiopathic nonregenerative immune-mediated anemia (NRIMA).

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—43 dogs with severe nonregenerative anemia.

Procedure—Medical records of dogs determined to have PRCA, NRIMA, or ineffective erythropoiesis on the basis of bone marrow analysis between 1988 and 1999 were reviewed. Criteria for inclusion were ≥ 5- day history of severe nonregenerative anemia (Hct < 20%; < 60.0 X 103reticulocytes/µl) with no underlying diseases. Information was retrieved on signalment, clinical signs, laboratory test results, treatment, and outcome.

Results—Median age of the dogs was 6.5 years. Spayed females and Labrador Retrievers were significantly overrepresented. Median Hct was 11% with no evidence of regeneration (median, 1.5 X 103reticulocytes/ µl). Direct Coombs' test results were positive in 57% of dogs. Biochemical abnormalities included hyperferremia and high percentage saturation of transferrin. Bone marrow findings ranged from PRCA (5%) to erythroid hyperplasia (55%). Myelofibrosis was common. Dogs were treated with immunosuppressive drugs and the response was complete, partial, and poor in 55, 18, and 27% of the dogs, respectively. Mortality rate was 28%.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—An immunemediated pathogenesis should be considered in dogs with severe, nonregenerative anemia, normal WBC and platelet counts, hyperferremia, mild clinical signs, and no evidence of underlying disease. Bone marrow findings range from the rare PRCA to erythroid hyperplasia. Myelofibrosis is often detected in affected dogs and may prevent bone marrow aspiration. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1429–1436)
Endogenous lipid pneumonia in cats: 24 cases (1985–1998)
Authors: Jones Donna J. , Norris Carol R. , Samii Valerie F. , Griffey Stephen M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical signs, radiographic and histologic abnormalities, and concurrent diseases in cats with endogenous lipid pneumonia (EnLP) and to determine the pathologic importance of EnLP in cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—24 cats.

Procedure—Medical records of cats in which EnLP was confirmed by histologic examination of necropsy specimens were reviewed. Information collected from the medical records included signalment, body weight, clinical signs, and results of clinicopathologic tests. Thoracic radiographs were reviewed by a radiologist; histologic specimens were reviewed by a pathologist.

Results—All cats had nonspecific clinical abnormalities, such as lethargy, anorexia, or weight loss; 16 had signs of respiratory tract disease. All cats had concurrent systemic diseases, and clinicopathologic abnormalities were reflective of these conditions. Nonspecific abnormalities were detected on thoracic radiographs from 9 of 11 cats. Most cats had macroscopic, multifocal, subpleural lesions; inflammatory infiltrates, cholesterol clefts, and multinucleated giant cells were common. Ten cats had an underlying obstructive pulmonary disease that was the likely cause of EnLP. Lesions of EnLP were not considered to be severe enough or extensive enough to be the cause of death in any of these cats.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—EnLP is an uncommon respiratory tract disorder of cats with no pathognomonic clinical, laboratory, or radiographic findings. Although EnLP was not the cause of death in any of these cats, results of the present study do suggest that EnLP may be a marker for potentially severe underlying obstructive pulmonary disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1437–1440)
Mesenteric rents as a source of small intestinal strangulation in horses: 15 cases (1990–1997)
Authors: Gayle J'mai M. , Blikslager Anthony T. , Bowman Karl F.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To describe the clinical findings in horses with small intestinal strangulation through mesenteric rents, and to determine the recurrence and survival rates after surgery.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—15 horses with small intestinal obstruction via a mesenteric rent.

Procedure—Medical records of horses with obstruction of the small intestine via a mesenteric rent between January 1990 and December 1997 were reviewed. The signalment, history, initial physical examination findings, results of abdominocentesis, and clinical laboratory values were recorded. Surgical findings, including location of the mesenteric rent and surgical procedure performed, were recorded. Shortand long-term survival rates were calculated.

Results—Most mesenteric rents were located in the mesentery of the small intestine (13 horses). Two horses had multiple mesenteric defects. Seven horses were euthanatized at surgery because of an inability to reduce the entrapped intestine (3 horses), uncontrollable hemorrhage (2), inability to close the rent (1), and the amount of compromised intestine involved (1). Seven horses required intestinal resection and anastomosis. The median length of intestine resected was 2.6 m (range, 0.6 to 4.5 m). The mesenteric rents created during resection were not closed in 2 horses. One of these 2 horses subsequently developed a strangulating obstruction through the open rent.

Seven of 15 horses in our study were discharged from the hospital (ie, short-term survival rate of 47% [7/15]). Long-term follow-up information was available for 5 of the 7 horses (follow-up duration of 5 months to 9 years), of which 2 died as a result of colic, and 1 horse was euthanatized because of severe arthritis (ie, long-term survival rate of 40% [2/5]).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Inability to reduce the intestinal obstruction, severe hemorrhage from the mesentery, and the length of intestine involved are the main factors that decrease survival rates in horses with small intestinal strangulation caused by mesenteric rents. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1446–1449).
Autologous blood collection and transfusion in cats undergoing partial craniectomy
Authors: Fusco Jason V. , Hohenhaus Ann E. , Aiken Sean W. , Joseph Richard J. , Berg Jason M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To describe the procedure for autologous blood donation and associated complications in cats undergoing partial craniectomy for mass removal.

Design—Prospective case series.

Animals—15 cats with intracranial mass confirmed by computed tomographic scan, no evidence of renal failure, and PCV ≥ 22%.

Procedure—One unit (60 ml) of blood was collected and stored 7 to 17 days before surgery and transfused during the perioperative period if needed. The PCV was measured before donation, before surgery, during surgery, and after surgery to assess effect of donation on PCV before surgery and effect of transfusion on PCV after surgery. Cats were evaluated for donation complications, iatrogenic anemia, and adverse reactions associated with administration of autologous blood.

Results—Complications associated with phlebotomy were not detected. Fifteen cats underwent partial craniectomy 7 to 17 days after blood donation; all had histologic confirmation of meningioma by examination of tissue obtained at surgery. Eleven cats received autologous blood transfusions. None of the cats received allogeneic blood transfusions. Transfusion reactions were not observed. Subclinical iatrogenic anemia was detected in 3 cats. Two cats were considered to have received excessive transfusion, and 3 cats received inadequate transfusion. All cats undergoing partial craniectomy were discharged from the hospital and were alive > 6 months after surgery.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Autologous blood donation before surgery was considered safe for cats undergoing partial craniectomy for resection of meningioma. The only complication observed was iatrogenic anemia. The procedure contributed to blood conservation in our hospital. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1584–1588)
Current and future trends in demographics of veterinary medicine in California
Authors: Kass Philip H. , Hansen Robert J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the present and future supply
of veterinarians in California, in light of changing
trends in animal ownership.

Design—Database analysis.

Sample Population—Human and animal populations,
including populations of veterinarians, throughout
the United States.

Procedures—Data on animal and human populations
were compiled from a number of sources, including
the US Census Bureau, American Veterinary Medical
Association, State of California Department of
Finance, and State of California Veterinary Medical
Board. The distribution of veterinarians in California
was contrasted with other health professionals in
California and with that of veterinarians in other
states. Recent changes in veterinary medical demographics
in California were quantified and used to
develop in-state projections about the supply of veterinarians
for the next 20 years.

Results—Although California is the most populous of
the 50 states, only 7 states had fewer veterinarians
per capita. Furthermore, California ranked next to last
among states in increase of number of veterinarians
between 1990 and 1995. Los Angeles County had the
smallest per-capita number of veterinarians among 9
populous California counties. During that period,
California had a net gain of only 6 veterinarians who
were exclusively or predominantly large-animal or
mixed-animal practitioners.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—If current
trends continue, the per-capita number of veterinarians
will continue to decrease in California. To maintain
the current ratio of 17.8 veterinarians/100,000 people in
California in the future, we estimate that an additional
50 veterinarians above the currently predicted increase
will be required annually. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2000;216:1753–1757)
Lifetime reproductive and financial performance of female swine
Authors: Lucia Thomaz , Dial Gary D. , Marsh William E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate reproductive and financial performance for commercial swine herds grouped on the basis of pattern of removal of female swine.

Design—Cohort study.

Sample Population—25 swine herds.

Procedures—Lifetime reproductive productivity was summarized as number of pigs weaned per herd day per mated female and as number of herd days per pig weaned per mated female. Factors associated with these 2 measures were determined by use of linear regression. Financial data from a commercial database were used to estimate maximum number of parities at removal associated with profitability. Sensitivity analysis was used to simulate how variations in daily maintenance cost and value per weaned pig would influence profitability.

Results—Mean number of pigs weaned per herd day per mated female was 0.054; mean number of herd days per pig weaned per mated female was 20.2. Both these measures were associated with proportion of nonproductive days during herd life, preweaning mortality rate per litter weaned, mean lifetime number of pigs born alive per litter weaned, and mean lifetime lactation duration. Maximum parity at time of removal associated with profitability ranged from 5 to 8. Daily maintenance costs per female had a greater impact on lifetime profitability than did value per weaned pig.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that lifetime reproductive and financial performance is optimized among swine herds that have higher proportions of high-parity females. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1802–1809)
Naturally occurring tuberculosis in white-tailed deer
Authors: Palmer Mitchell V. , Whipple Diana L. , Payeur Janet B. , Alt David P. , Esch Kevin J. , Bruning-Fann Colleen S. , Kaneene John B.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the distribution of lesions
and extent of tissues infected with Mycobacterium
bovis in a captive population of white-tailed deer.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—116 captive white-tailed deer.

Procedure—Deer were euthanatized, and postmortem
examinations were performed. Tissues with
gross lesions suggestive of tuberculosis were collected
for microscopic analysis and bacteriologic culture.
Tissues from the head, thorax, and abdomen of deer
with no gross lesions were pooled for bacteriologic
culture. Tonsillar, nasal, oral, and rectal swab specimens,
fecal samples, and samples of hay and pelleted
feed, soil around feeding sites, and water from 2 natural
ponds were collected for bacteriologic culture.

Results—Mycobacterium bovis was isolated from 14
of 116 (12%) deer; however, only 9 of 14 had lesions
consistent with tuberculosis. Most commonly affected
tissues included the medial retropharyngeal lymph
node and lung. Five of 14 tuberculous deer had no
gross lesions; however, M bovis was isolated from
pooled tissue specimens from the heads of each of
these deer. Bacteriologic culture of tonsillar swab specimens
from 2 of the infected deer yielded M bovis.
Mean (± SEM) age of tuberculous deer was 2.5 ± 0.3
years (range, 0.5 to 6 years). Mycobacterium bovis was
not isolated from feed, soil, water, or fecal samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Examination of
hunter-killed white-tailed deer for tuberculosis commonly
includes only the lymph nodes of the head.
Results of such examinations may underestimate disease
prevalence by as much as 57%. Such discrepancy
should be considered when estimating disease prevalence.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2000;216:1921–1924)
Long-term outcome of horses with a slab fracture of the central or third tarsal bone treated conservatively: 25 cases (1976–1993)
Authors: Murphey E. D. , Schneider Robert K. , Adams Stephen B. , Santschi Elizabeth M. , Stick John A. , Ruggles Alan J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical features of horses with a slab fracture of the central or third tarsal bone and to report outcome of horses in which treatment did not include surgery.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—25 horses (14 Standardbreds, 6 Thoroughbreds, 5 Quarter Horses).

Procedure—Medical records of horses with a slab fracture of the central (n = 9) or third (16) tarsal bone were reviewed. Only horses for which treatment consisted of confinement to a stall were included in this study. Clinical features and radiographic findings were recorded and summarized. Outcome was determined for racing breeds by obtaining official lifetime race results. Outcome for Quarter Horses was determined by phone survey of the owners.

Results—16 (64%) horses had a successful outcome. Ten of 14 (71%) Standardbreds and 2 of 6 Thoroughbreds returned to racing and started at least 5 races after injury. Four of 5 Quarter Horses for which follow-up information was available successfully returned to their previous activity. Sex, age, limb affected, or gait was not associated with final outcome. Percentage of racehorses with central tarsal bone fractures that had a successful outcome (2/7) was significantly less than percentage with third tarsal bone fractures that did (10/13).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that enforced rest without surgical fixation can be an effective therapeutic option for horses with a slab fracture of the central or third tarsal bone, even if athletic function is expected. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:1949–1954)
Correlation between age at neutering and age at onset of hyperadrenocorticism in ferrets
Authors: Shoemaker Nico J. , Schuurmans Marielle , Moorman Hanneke , Lumeij J. (Sjeng) T.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine prevalence of hyperadrenocorticism in ferrets in The Netherlands and evaluate age, sex, and age at neutering in affected ferrets.

Design—Prevalence survey and retrospective study.

Animals—50 ferrets with hyperadrenocorticism and 1,267 ferrets without hyperadrenocorticism.

Procedure—A questionnaire was sent to 1,400 members of a ferret-owners organization in The Netherlands; 492 (35%) owners returned the questionnaire, providing usable data on 1,274 ferrets. Seven of these ferrets developed hyperadrenocorticism during the survey period; medical records for these ferrets and 43 ferrets with confirmed hyperadrenocorticism were reviewed. Hyperadrenocorticism was confirmed by histologic examination of an excised adrenal gland (92% of ferrets) or clinical improvement after excision.

Results—Prevalence of hyperadrenocorticism in the survey population was 0.55%. Sex was not associated with prevalence of disease. Median time interval between neutering and diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism was 3.5 years. A significant linear correlation between age at neutering and age at time of diagnosis was detected.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Age at neutering may be associated with age at development of hyperadrenocorticism in ferrets. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:195–197)
Influence of open surgical correction on intermediate-term outcome in dogs with subvalvular aortic stenosis: 44 cases (1991–1998)
Authors: Orton E. Christopher , Herndon Gregory D. , Boon June A. , Gaynor James S. , Hackett Timothy B. , Monnet Eric
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare outcome and intermediateterm survival for dogs undergoing open surgical correction of subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS) with those for dogs with SAS that did not undergo surgery.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—44 dogs with congenital SAS.

Procedure—Maximum instantaneous systolic pressure gradients were determined by use of Doppler echocardiography. Cardiopulmonary bypass and open surgical correction of SAS (membranectomy with or without septal myectomy) was performed in 22 dogs, whereas 22 dogs did not undergo surgical correction. Cumulative survival was compared between surgical and nonsurgical groups, using Kaplan-Meier nonparametric analysis and a Mantel-Cox log-rank test.

Results—Initial systolic pressure gradients were not significantly different for dogs undergoing surgery (128 ± 55 mm Hg), compared with those that did not undergo surgery (117 ± 57 mm Hg). Systolic pressure gradients were significantly decreased after surgery in dogs that underwent surgery (54 ± 27 mm Hg). Cumulative survival was not significantly different between dogs in the surgical and nonsurgical groups. Censoring surgery-related mortality in the analysis still did not reveal a significant difference in cumulative survival between the surgical and nonsurgical groups.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Despite reductions in the systolic pressure gradient and possible associated improvement in exercise tolerance, a palliative benefit on survival was not documented in dogs undergoing surgery for SAS. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:364–367)
Productivity characteristics of high-performing commercial swine breeding farms
Authors: Koketsu Yuzo
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine productivity characteristics of high-performing swine breeding herds in the United States and to determine associations among number of litters per mated female per year (LMFY), number of pigs weaned per sow (PWS), and lactation duration.

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—1997 productivity records for 685 herds.

Procedure—Herds were ranked on the basis of number of pigs weaned per mated female per year, and herds in the upper 10th percentile of this ranking were designated as high-performing herds. Productivity measurements for these herds were compared with values for the remaining herds.

Results—High-performing herds had shorter lactation durations and higher mean breeding female inventories than did the remaining herds. High-performing herds also had better reproductive efficiency and used farrowing facilities more efficiently than did the remaining herds. For the high-performing herds, lactation duration was significantly associated with PWS but was not significantly associated with LMFY. In contrast, for the remaining herds, lactation duration was not significantly associated with PWS but was significantly associated with LMFY.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that high-performing commercial swine farms could increase PWS by improving preweaning mortality rate and number of pigs born alive, but that LMFY was already maximal. For other herds, however, shortening lactation duration would likely decrease farrowing interval and improve efficiency of the reproductive cycle without reducing litter size. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:376–379)
Clinical, radiographic, and pathologic features of bronchiectasis in cats: 12 cases (1987–1999)
Authors: Norris Carol R. , Samii Valerie F.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical, radiographic, and pathologic features of bronchiectasis in cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—12 cats with histologic evidence of bronchiectasis.

Procedure—Information on signalment, body weight, clinical signs of respiratory disease, concurrent diseases, method by which lung tissue specimens were obtained (surgical biopsy or necropsy), and histopathologic findings was obtained by reviewing medical records from January 1987 to June 1999 for cats with confirmation of bronchiectasis by histologic examination. Available thoracic radiographs were reviewed by a board-certified radiologist.

Results—Bronchiectasis was most commonly identified in older male cats. Clinical signs referable to the lower portion of the respiratory tract were detected in only 5 cats but, when evident, were usually chronic (duration > 1 year). Radiographic pattern of bronchiectasis was cylindrical in 4 cats, and in 1 of these cats, a saccular pattern was also identified. For most cats, bronchiectasis was detected in a single lung lobe. Radiographic evidence of bronchiectasis was not detected in 2 cats. Concurrent respiratory diseases included chronic bronchitis and bronchiolitis, neoplasia, bronchopneumonia, endogenous lipid pneumonia, and emphysema.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Bronchiectasis appears to be an uncommon respiratory tract disorder that predominantly affects older male cats. Thoracic radiography may not be sensitive for the diagnosis of bronchiectasis in cats. Bronchiectasis in cats appears to be a sequela of chronic inflammatory bronchopulmonary diseases, especially chronic bronchitis, neoplasia, and bronchopneumonia. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:530–534)
Risk factors for acquired myasthenia gravis in cats: 105 cases (1986–1998)
Authors: Shelton G. Diane , Ho Mindy , Kass Philip H.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine prevalence of initial clinical signs and risk factors for acquired myasthenia gravis (MG) in cats.

Design—Retrospective case-control study.

Animals—105 cats from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom with a confirmed diagnosis of acquired MG and 510 cats with other neuromuscular disorders, including generalized weakness, megaesophagus, and dysphagia (control group).

Procedures—Records were retrieved from a database containing results of serum samples tested for acetylcholine receptor antibodies. Signalment, including breed, age, and state or country of origin, month of onset, and initial clinical signs were obtained. An acetylcholine receptor antibody titer > 0.3 nmol/L was diagnostic for acquired MG. Unconditional logistic regression was used for statistical analysis.

Results—Compared with mixed-breed cats, the breed with the highest relative risk of acquired MG was the Abyssinian (including Somali). Significant differences between sexes were not detected. There was no compelling evidence for a difference in risk of developing MG between states or countries. Relative risk increased after 3 years of age. The most common clinical signs were generalized weakness without megaesophagus and weakness associated with a cranial mediastinal mass. Focal signs, including megaesophagus and dysphagia without signs of generalized weakness, were also evident.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A breed predisposition for acquired MG in Abyssinians (and related Somalis) was observed. Clinical signs were variable and included generalized weakness, megaesophagus, and dysphagia. A cranial mediastinal mass was commonly associated with MG in cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:55–57)
Prognosis for presumed feline vaccine-associated sarcoma after excision: 61 cases (1986–1996)
Authors: Hershey A. Elizabeth , Sorenmo Karin U. , Hendrick Mattie J. , Shofer Frances S. , Vail David M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate time to first recurrence (TFR) and overall survival in cats with presumed vaccine-associated sarcomas (VAS) treated with excision.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—61 cats with presumed VAS.

Procedure—Medical records of cats that received excision as the only initial treatment for presumed VAS were reviewed to evaluate prognosis. Overall survival curves and TFR were determined.

Results—Median TFR was 94 days. Median TFR for tumors treated with excision performed at a referral institution (274 days) was significantly longer than that for tumors excised by a referring veterinarian (66 days). Radical first excision yielded significantly longer median TFR (325 days) than did marginal first excision (79 days). Cats with tumors located on the limbs had longer median TFR (325 days) than cats with tumors located in other sites (66 days). Median overall survival time was 576 days. Significant differences in survival times between groups were not detected. Few cats (13.8%) receiving only surgical treatment had longterm (> 2 years) survival.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Radical first excision of presumed VAS is essential for extended TFR. Current recommendations for vaccination of the distal portions of the extremities are appropriate, because this practice permits radical excision of tumors (amputation) that develop at vaccination sites; however, surgery alone is seldom curative. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:58–61)
Performance of serologic tests used to detect heartworm infection in cats
Authors: Snyder Patti S. , Levy Julie K. , Salute Marc E. , Gorman Shawn P. , Kubilis Paul S. , Smail Paul W. , George Linda L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare heartworm serum antibody (Ab) and antigen (Ag) test results, using commercial laboratories and in-house heartworm test kits, with necropsy findings in a population of shelter cats.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—330 cats at an animal shelter.

Procedure—Between March and June 1998, 30 ml of blood was collected from the cranial and caudal venae cavae of 330 cats that were euthanatized at a local animal shelter. Results of heartworm Ab and Ag serologic tests for heartworm infection were compared with necropsy findings in this population of cats, using commercial laboratories and in-house test kits to measure serum Ab and Ag concentrations.

Results—On necropsy, adult Dirofilaria immitis were found in 19 of 330 (5.8%) cats. Combining results from serum Ab and Ag tests achieved higher sensitivities than using serum Ab and Ag test results alone (ie, maximum sensitivities of 100% vs 89.5%, respectively), whereas use of serum Ag and Ab test results alone achieved higher specificities compared with the use of a combination of serum Ab and Ag results (ie, maximum specificities of 99.4% vs 92.9%, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—On the basis of our findings, if a cat has clinical signs that suggest heartworm disease despite a negative heartworm serum Ab test result, an alternative heartworm Ab test, a heartworm Ag test, thoracic radiography, or two-dimensional echocardiography should be performed. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:693–700)
Effect of animal welfare audits of slaughter plants by a major fast food company on cattle handling and stunning practices
Authors: Grandin Temple
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the percentages of cattle that are stunned correctly and that vocalize (moo or bellow) when a major meat-buying customer conducts slaughter plant audits.

Design—Survey of existing practices.

Sample Population—22 federally inspected slaughter plants.

Procedure—The 3 variables evaluated in each slaughter plant were stunning efficacy, insensibility on the bleed rail, and vocalization.

Results—Of the 22 slaughter plants, 17 (77%) rendered ≥ 95% of the cattle insensible with a single shot from a captive bolt stunner. Twenty slaughter plants (91%) rendered 100% of the cattle completely insensible before hanging them on the bleed rail. Eighteen of 21 (86%) slaughter plants achieved cattle vocalization scores of ≤ 3%. The mean vocalization score for all slaughter plants was 3.08%. Vocalization ranged from 0.66 to 17%.

Conclusions—Results of this study indicate that audits of slaughter plants by major meat-buying customers may motivate the meat industry to improve handling and stunning practices. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:848–851)
Sialadenosis in dogs
Authors: Boydell Pip , Pike Rachel , Crossley David , Whitbread Trevor
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical findings, cytologic and histologic characteristics of salivary glands, and response to treatment with phenobarbital in dogs with clinical signs typical of sialadenosis.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—13 dogs with enlarged salivary glands.

Procedure—Data were collected from dogs with clinical signs attributable to enlarged salivary glands. Salivary gland biopsy and cytologic specimens were examined. Dogs were treated with phenobarbital and monitored for response to treatment.

Results—Clinical signs commonly associated with sialadenosis included retching and gulping. Substantial cellular changes were not detected by histologic or cytologic examination of enlarged salivary glands. Response to treatment with phenobarbital was rapid, although most dogs required continuous treatment to prevent recurrence of clinical signs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Sialadenosis is a condition of unknown cause that may have been underdiagnosed in dogs. Criteria for diagnosis include typical clinical signs, enlarged salivary glands, and lack of substantial microscopic lesions. Response to treatment with phenobarbital is rapid. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;216:872–874)
Effect of a bioflavonoid dietary supplement on acetaminophen-induced oxidative injury to feline erythrocytes
Authors: Allison Robin W. , Lassen E. Duane , Burkhard Mary Jo , Lappin Michael R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the effect of a commercial bioflavonoid antioxidant on acetaminophen-induced oxidative injury to feline erythrocytes.

Design—Randomized controlled study.

Animals—45 healthy age-matched cats.

Procedure—Cats were assigned to 3 experimental groups. Groups 1 and 3 received a bioflavonoid antioxidant (10 mg/d) orally for 2 weeks. Groups 2 and 3 received an oxidative challenge with acetaminophen (90 mg/kg [41 mg/lb] of body weight, PO) on day 7. Packed cell volume, percentage of erythrocytes with Heinz bodies, blood methemoglobin concentration, and blood reduced and oxidized glutathione concentrations were determined at various times during the 2-week study period.

Results—Adverse effects were not associated with bioflavonoid antioxidant administration alone. Acetaminophen administration resulted in a significant increase in methemoglobin concentration in groups 2 and 3; differences were not detected between these groups. Heinz body concentrations in groups 2 and 3 increased after acetaminophen administration; however, the increase in cats that received the antioxidant was significantly less than in group-2 cats. Total blood glutathione concentrations did not change significantly in groups 2 and 3 after acetaminophen administration; however, ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione concentration increased significantly after administration in group-2 cats, compared with group-3 cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Oral administration of bioflavonoid antioxidants to cats at risk for oxidative stress may have a beneficial effect on their ability to resist oxidative injury to erythrocytes. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2000;217:1157–1161)