bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics of fluconazole following intravenous and oral administration and body fluid concentrations of fluconazole following repeated oral dosing in horses
Authors: Latimer Federico G. , Colitz Carmen M. H. , Campbell Nigel B. , Papich Mark G.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the pharmacokinetics of fluconazole in horses.

Animals—6 clinically normal adult horses.

Procedure—Fluconazole (10 mg/kg of body weight) was administered intravenously or orally with 2 weeks between treatments. Plasma fluconazole concentrations were determined prior to and 10, 20, 30, 40, and 60 minutes and 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 hours after administration. A long-term oral dosing regimen was designed in which all horses received a loading dose of fluconazole (14 mg/kg) followed by 5 mg/kg every 24 hours for 10 days. Fluconazole concentrations were determined in aqueous humor, plasma, CSF, synovial fluid, and urine after administration of the final dose.

Results—Mean (± SD) apparent volume of distribution of fluconazole at steady state was 1.21 ± 0.01 L/kg. Systemic availability and time to maximum plasma concentration following oral administration were 101.24 ± 27.50% and 1.97 ± 1.68 hours, respectively. Maximum plasma concentrations and terminal halflives after IV and oral administration were similar. Plasma, CSF, synovial fluid, aqueous humor, and urine concentrations of fluconazole after long-term oral administration of fluconazole were 30.50 ± 23.88, 14.99 ± 1.86, 14.19 ± 5.07, 11.39 ± 2.83, and 56.99 ± 32.87 µg/ml, respectively.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Bioavailability of fluconazole was high after oral administration to horses. Long-term oral administration maintained plasma and body fluid concentrations of fluconazole above the mean inhibitory concentration (8.0 mg/ml) reported for fungal pathogens in horses. Fluconazole may be an appropriate agent for treatment of fungal infections in horses. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:1606–1611).
Effects of dietary fat and L-carnitine on plasma and whole blood taurine concentrations and cardiac function in healthy dogs fed protein-restricted diets
Authors: Sanderson Sherry L. , Gross Kathy L. , Ogburn Phillip N. , Calvert Clay , Jacobs Gil , Lowry Stephen R. , Bird Kathy A. , Koehler Lori A. , Swanson Laurie L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate plasma taurine concentrations (PTC), whole blood taurine concentrations (WBTC), and echocardiographic findings in dogs fed 1 of 3 protein-restricted diets that varied in fat and L-carnitine content.

Animals—17 healthy Beagles.

Design—Baseline PTC and WBTC were determined, and echocardiography was performed in all dogs consuming a maintenance diet. Dogs were then fed 1 of 3 protein-restricted diets for 48 months: a low-fat (LF) diet, a high-fat and L-carnitine supplemented (HF + C) diet, or a high-fat (HF) diet. All diets contained methionine and cystine concentrations at or above recommended Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) minimum requirements. Echocardiographic findings, PTC, and WBTC were evaluated every 6 months.

Results—The PTC and WBTC were not significantly different among the 3 groups after 12 months. All groups had significant decreases in WBTC from baseline concentrations, and the HF group also had a significant decrease in PTC. One dog with PT and WBT deficiency developed dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Taurine supplementation resulted in significant improvement in cardiac function. Another dog with decreased WBTC developed changes compatible with early DCM.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Results revealed that dogs fed protein-restricted diets can develop decreased taurine concentrations; therefore, protein-restricted diets should be supplemented with taurine. Dietary methionine and cystine concentrations at or above AAFCO recommended minimum requirements did not prevent decreased taurine concentrations. The possibility exists that AAFCO recommended minimum requirements are not adequate for dogs consuming protein-restricted diets. Our results also revealed that, similar to cats, dogs can develop DCM secondary to taurine deficiency, and taurine supplementation can result in substantial improvement in cardiac function. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:1616–1623)
Effects of intra-articular injections of bufexamac suspension in healthy horses
Authors: Suominen Mikko M. , Tulamo Riitta-Mari , Anttila Marjukka O. , Sankari Satu M. , Király Kari , Lapveteläinen Tuomo , Helminen Heikki J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the effects of intra-articular (IA) injections of bufexamac in horses, focusing particularly on the effects of bufexamac on articular cartilage.

Animals—20 Standardbreds.

Procedure—Horses were randomly allocated into 4 groups consisting of 5 horses each, and 20, 60, or 100 mg of bufexamac or 1 ml of sterile saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (control) was injected into 1 intercarpal joint at weekly intervals for 6 treatments (days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35). Clinical signs and results of hematologic, serum biochemical, and synovial fluid (SF) analyses and radiography were used to evaluate treatment effects. On day 49, all horses were euthanatized; gross necropsy and histologic examinations of internal organs and articular tissues were performed. Glycosaminoglycan concentration of the articular cartilage was evaluated in safranin O-stained sections by use of a semiquantitative microspectrophotometric method.

Results—No systemic signs were observed. Temporary mild to moderate heat and effusion were the only clinical signs observed in a number of joints after IA injections and more often only in the 100 mg group, compared with controls. The 100 mg dose resulted in significant increases in SF WBC counts, with relative neutrophilia and SF total protein concentration 24 hours after injection (day 1). No lesions suggestive of toxic effects were detected at necropsy or on histologic examination. No changes in articular cartilage glycosaminoglycan concentration were detected.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Six injections of 20, 60, or 100 mg of bufexamac at weekly intervals did not cause any untoward systemic or local effects. These data suggest that bufexamac is a safe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug for IA administration in horses. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:1629–1635)
Effect of carprofen on hemostatic variables in dogs
Authors: Hickford Fiona H. , Barr Stephen C. , Erb Hollis N.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the effect of carprofen on hemostatic variables in clinically normal dogs.

Animals—12 clinically normal Labrador Retrievers.

Procedure—10 dogs (6 females, 4 males) received carprofen (2.2 mg/kg of body weight, PO, q 12 h) for 5 days. Two dogs (untreated control group; 1 female, 1 male) did not receive carprofen. Hemostatic variables (platelet count, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, fibrinogen, platelet aggregation, and bleeding time) were assessed for all dogs prior to treatment, on day 5 of treatment, and 2 and 7 days after discontinuation of the drug (days 7 and 12). Serum biochemical variables and Hct were assessed prior to treatment and on days 5 and 12.

Results—In dogs receiving carprofen, platelet aggregation was significantly decreased, and onset of aggregation was significantly delayed on days 5, 7, and 12, compared with pretreatment values. Activated partial thromboplastin time was significantly increased on days 5, 7, and 12 over pretreatment values in treated dogs, but values remained within reference ranges. Significant differences were not detected in buccal mucosal bleeding time, other serum biochemical and hemostatic variables, or Hct, compared with pretreatment values and the internal control group.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Administration of carprofen for 5 days causes minor but not clinically important alterations in hemostatic and serum biochemical variables in clinically normal Labrador Retrievers. Carprofen is commonly used to treat osteoarthritis and chronic pain in dogs, but prior to this study, its effect on platelet aggregation and hemostatic variables was unknown. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:1642–1646)
Calcium sensitivity of force production and myofibrillar ATPase activity in muscles from Thoroughbreds with recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Mlekoday Jennifer A. , Mickelson James R. , Valberg Stephanie J. , Horton Jessica H. , Gallant Esther M. , Thompson LaDora V.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether the basis for recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis (RER) in Thoroughbreds lies in an alteration in the activation and regulation of the myofibrillar contractile apparatus by ionized calcium.

Animals—4 Thoroughbred mares with RER and 4 clinically normal (control) Thoroughbreds.

Procedure—Single chemically-skinned type-I (slowtwitch) and type-II (fast-twitch) muscle fibers were obtained from punch biopsy specimens, mounted to a force transducer, and the tensions that developed in response to a series of calcium concentrations were measured. In addition, myofibril preparations were isolated from muscle biopsy specimens and the maximal myofibrillar ATPase activity, as well as its sensitivity to ionized calcium, were measured.

Results—Equine type-I muscle fibers were more readily activated by calcium than were type-II muscle fibers. However, there was no difference between the type-II fibers of RER-affected and control horses in terms of calcium sensitivity of force production. There was also no difference between muscle myofibril preparations from RER-affected and control horses in calcium sensitivity of myofibrillar ATPase activity.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—An alteration in myofibrillar calcium sensitivity is not a basis for pathologic contracture development in muscles from RER-affected horses. Recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis in Thoroughbreds may represent a novel heritable defect in the regulation of muscle excitation-contraction coupling or myoplasmic calcium concentration. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:1647–1652)
Effect of a valine residue at codon 352 of the VP2 capsid protein on in vivo replication and pathogenesis of Aleutian disease parvovirus in mink
Authors: Stevenson M. A. McCrackin , Fox James M. , Wolfinbarger James B. , Bloom Marshall E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether a group of 3 genetic differences in the nonstructural protein (NS1) or 1 genetic difference in the structural protein (VP2) of Aleutian disease parvovirus (ADV) is responsible for an increase in the in vivo replication and pathogenicity of G/U-8, a chimera of ADV-G (nonpathogenic) and ADVUtah (pathogenic), compared with G/U-10.

Animals—32 eight-month-old female sapphire mink (Mustela vison).

Procedure—Chimeric viruses were constructed, propagated in vitro, and used to inoculate mink. Antiviral antibody responses, presence of serum viral nucleic acid, and serum gamma globulin concentrations were monitored for 120 days following inoculation. Histologic examination of the liver, kidneys, spleen, and mesenteric lymph nodes was performed after necropsy.

Results—A chimera containing only the 3 amino acid substitutions in NS1 did not elicit measurable responses indicative of replication or pathogenicity in inoculated mink. Serum antiviral antibody responses, frequency of detection of viral nucleic acid in serum, gamma globulin response, and histologic changes in mink inoculated with chimeras containing a valine residue at codon 352 (352V) of VP2 capsid were increased, compared with values from mink inoculated with chimeric viruses that did not contain 352V.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—A valine residue at codon 352 in the VP2 capsid protein of ADV affects in vivo viral replication and pathogenicity. This amino acid may be part of an incompletely defined pathogenic determinant of ADV. Further characterization of the pathogenic determinant may allow future development of focused preventive and therapeutic interventions for Aleutian disease of mink. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:1658–1663)
Effects of antibiotics on morphologic characteristics and migration of canine corneal epithelial cells in tissue culture
Authors: Hendrix Diane V. H. , Ward Daniel A. , Barnhill Mary Ann
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine effects of commonly used
ophthalmic antibiotics on cellular morphologic characteristics
and migration of canine corneal epithelium in
cell culture.

Sample Population—Corneal epithelial cells harvested
from corneas of 12 euthanatized dogs and propagated
in cell culture.

Procedure—Cells were treated with various antibiotics
after a defect was created in the monolayer.
Cellular morphologic characteristics and closure of
the defect were compared between antibiotic-treated
and control cells.

Results—Cells treated with ciprofloxacin and cefazolin
had the greatest degree of rounding, shrinkage,
and detachment from plates. Cells treated with
neomycin-polymyxin B-gramicidin and gentamicin sulfate
had rounding and shrinkage but with less
detachment. Cells treated with tobramycin and chloramphenicol
grew similarly to control cells. On the
basis of comparisons of defect circumference
between control cells and cells exposed to antibiotics,
tobramycin affected cellular migration the least.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Effects of
ciprofloxacin and cefazolin on morphologic characteristics
of canine corneal epithelial cells in vitro should
be taken into consideration before using these antibiotics
for first-line of treatment for noninfected ulcers.
Of the antibiotics tested that have a primarily gramnegative
spectrum of coverage, gentamicin inhibited
corneal epithelial cell migration and had greater
cytopathologic effects than tobramycin did. For antibiotics
with a gram-positive coverage, chloramphenicol
had no cytopathologic effects on cells in comparison
to cefazolin, which caused most of the cells to shrink
and detach from the plate. Polymyxin B-neomycingramicidin
was midrange in its effects on cellular morphologic
characteristics and migration. (Am J Vet Res
2001;62:xxx–xxx)
Results of thyroid function tests and concentrations of plasma proteins in dogs administered etodolac
Authors: Panciera David L. , Johnston Spencer A.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the effects of etodolac administration on results of thyroid function tests and concentrations of plasma proteins in clinically normal dogs.

Animals—19 healthy random-source mixed-breed dogs.

Procedure—Blood samples for measurement of serum thyroxine (T4), 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3), free T4(fT4), and endogenous canine thyroid stimulating hormone (cTSH) were measured twice before as well as on days 14 and 28 of etodolac administration (mean dosage, 13.7 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h). Plasma total protein, albumin, and globulin concentrations and serum osmolality were measured once before as well as on days 14 and 28 of etodolac administration.

Results—Etodolac administration did not significantly affect serum T4, T3, fT4, or cTSH concentrations or serum osmolality. Significant decreases in plasma total protein, albumin, and globulin concentrations were detected on days 14 and 28 of administration.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of thyroid function tests are not altered when etodolac is administered for up to 4 weeks. Therefore, interpretation of results of these tests should accurately reflect thyroid function during etodolac treatment. Plasma total protein, albumin, or globulin concentrations that are less than the respective reference range in a dog administered etodolac for ≥ 2 weeks may be an effect of treatment rather than an unrelated disease process. A decrease in plasma protein concentrations may reflect subclinical injury of the gastrointestinal tract. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:1492–1495)
Epidemiologic investigation of Mycobacterium bovis in a population of cats
Authors: Kaneene John B. , Bruning-Fann Colleen S. , Dunn John , Mullaney Thomas P. , Berry Dale , Massey Jeffrey P. , Thoen Charles O. , Halstead Steven , Schwartz Kathy
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether cats exposed at a
residence were infected with Mycobacterium bovis,
whether the tuberculin skin test can identify cats
infected with M bovis, and whether an ELISA could
identify tuberculosis-infected cats.

Animals—20 domestic cats exposed to a cat with
laboratory-confirmed disseminated M bovis infection.

Procedure—Cats were administered a tuberculin
skin test and monitored for 72 hours. Blood and fecal
samples were collected. Cats were then euthanatized,
and postmortem examinations were performed.
Tissues were examined grossly and histologically
for signs of mycobacteriosis. Pooled tissue
samples and fecal samples were submitted for
mycobacterial culture. Blood samples were examined
for evidence of tuberculosis by use of a comparative
ELISA.

Results—4 cats had positive responses for the
ELISA, and 2 cats had suspicious responses. All
tuberculin skin tests yielded negative results. No
gross or histologic lesions of tuberculosis were
detected in any tissues, and mycobacteria were not
isolated from tissues or feces obtained from the 20
cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—All cats that
had positive or suspicious responses for the ELISA
were offspring of the cat with tuberculosis. Evidence
of tuberculosis was not seen in other cats at the residence,
the owner, or the attending veterinarian. The
most likely source of tuberculosis for the infected cat
was through the consumption of M bovis-infected
wildlife carcasses or offal. Because M bovis is endemic
in wildlife in northeastern Michigan, there is a risk
of exposure to tuberculosis in companion animals,
their owners, and attending veterinarians. (Am J Vet
Res 2002;63:1507–1511)
In vivo effects of meloxicam and aspirin on blood, gastric mucosal, and synovial fluid prostanoid synthesis in dogs
Authors: Jones Christopher J. , Streppa Heather K. , Harmon Barry G. , Budsberg Steven C.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate in vivo activityin dogs of meloxicam or aspirin, previously shown in vitro to be a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor (COX-1 sparing drug), or a nonselective COX inhibitor, respectively.

Animals—12 male dogs with unilateral osteoarthritis of the stifle joint.

Procedure—Each dog was treated in a crossover design with aspirin or meloxicam for 21 days. Prostaglandin E2(PGE2) concentrations were measured at days 0 (baseline), 7, and 21 of each treatment period in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated blood, synovial fluid collected by arthrocentesis, and endoscopic gastric mucosal biopsy specimens. Thromboxane B2(TXB2) was evaluated in blood on days 0, 7, and 21 of each treatment period.

Results—Aspirin administration significantly suppressed PGE2concentrations in blood, gastric mucosa, synovial fluid, and suppressed TXB2concentration in blood at days 7 and 21. Meloxicam administration significantly suppressed PGE2concentrations in blood and synovial fluid at days 7 and 21, but had no effect on concentrations of TXB2 in blood or PGE2in gastric mucosa. Suppression of LPS-stimulated PGE2concentrations in blood and synovial fluid by aspirin and meloxicam administration is consistent with activity against the COX-2 isoenzyme. Suppression of concentrations of PGE2in the gastric mucosa and TXB2in blood by aspirin administration is consistent with activity against COX-1. Meloxicam, in contrast, had a minimal effect on functions mediated by COX-1.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Meloxicam acts in vivo in dogs as a COX-1 sparing drug on target tissues by sparing gastric PGE2synthesis while retaining antiprostaglandin effects within inflamed joints. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:1527–1531)
Safety and immunologic effects after inoculation of inactivated and combined live-inactivated dermatophytosis vaccines in cats
Authors: DeBoer Douglas J. , Moriello Karen A. , Blum Jenifer L. , Volk Lynn M. , Bredahl Lars K.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine antidermatophyte immunologic effects of an experimental combined live-inactivated dermatophytosis vaccine (CLIDV) and a commercial inactivated dermatophytosis vaccine (IDV) in cats and to evaluate adverse effects associated with administration of these vaccines.

Animals—20 healthy juvenile domestic shorthair cats.

Procedure—Cats were injected with 2 doses of CLIDV at the standard dosage or 1 dose of CLIDV at 10 times the standard dosage; IDV was administered at the manufacturer-recommended dosage. Cats were observed for illness and reactions at inoculation sites. Periodically, samples were obtained for fungal culture, lymphocyte blastogenesis test (LBT) as an indicator of cell-mediated immunity against dermatophyte antigens, and antidermatophyte IgG titers. Following vaccination, cats were challenge-exposed by topical application ofMicrosporum canismacroconidia and examined weekly for clinical signs of dermatophytosis.

Results—6 of 10 cats given CLIDV developed focal crusts at the injection site that resolved without treatment; these were areas of dermatophyte infection with the vaccine strain. Antidermatophyte IgG titers increased significantly with all vaccination protocols. Cellular immunity againstM canisincreased slightly and variably during the vaccination period and did not differ significantly between vaccinated and control cats. All cats developed dermatophyte infection after challenge exposure. Vaccination with CLIDV or IDV was associated with slightly reduced severity of initial infection.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Inoculation with IDV or CLIDV did not provide prophylactic immunity against topical challenge exposure withM canis. Inoculation with either vaccine did not provide a more rapid cure of an established infection. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:1532–1537)
Scanning electron microscopy of vascular corrosion casts and histologic examination of pulmonary microvasculature in dogs with dirofilariosis
Authors: Ninomiya Hiroyoshi , Wakao Yoshito
Published: December 2005

Objective—To characterize structural changes in pulmonary
vessels of dogs with dirofilariosis.

Animals—8 dogs with dirofilariosis and 2 unaffected
control dogs.

Procedure—Pulmonary artery pressure was measured
in affected dogs, and dogs then were euthanatized.
Scanning electron microscopy was used to
examine vascular corrosion casts of pulmonary vasculature.
Tissue sections of pulmonary vasculature
were evaluated by use of histologic examination.

Results—Pulmonary artery pressure was higher in
dogs with severely affected pulmonary vessels. In tissue
sections, dilatation, as well as lesions in the tunica
intima and proliferative lesions resulting in constriction
or obstruction, were frequently observed in
branches of the pulmonary artery. Numerous dilated
bronchial arteries were observed around affected pulmonary
arteries. Hyperplastic venous sphincters
were observed in small pulmonary veins and venules.
In corrosion casts, affected pulmonary lobar arteries
had dilatation, pruning, abnormal tapering, constriction,
and obstruction. In small arteries and arterioles,
surface structures representing aneurisms and
edema were seen. Bronchial arteries were well developed
and extremely dilated, and they formed numerous
anastomoses with pulmonary arteries at all levels,
from the pulmonary trunk to peripheral vessels.
Capillaries in the lungs were dilated with little structural
change. Small pulmonary veins and venules had
irregular annular constrictions that were caused by
hyperplastic smooth muscle cells of venous sphincters.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Scanning
electron microscopy of microvascular casts delineated
links between the bronchial and pulmonary circulations
in dogs with dirofilariosis. Results of scanning
electron microscopy provided a structural explanation
for the development of pulmonary circulatory disturbances
and pulmonary hypertension in dogs affected
by dirofilariosis. (Am J Vet Res 2002:63:1538–1544)
Quantitative assessment of nociception in horses by use of the nociceptive withdrawal reflex evoked by transcutaneous electrical stimulation
Authors: Spadavecchia Claudia , Spadavecchia Luciano , Andersen Ole K. , Arendt-Nielsen Lars , Leandri Massimo , Schatzmann Urs
Published: December 2005

Objectives—To evoke and measure the nociceptive
withdrawal reflex (NWR) by use of electromyographic
recordings and to score the behavioral nociceptive
responses to electrical pulses in standing nonsedated
horses.

Animals—10 adult horses.

Procedure—The lateral palmar digital nerve of the forelimb
was transcutaneously stimulated, and surface
electromyographic responses were recorded from the
ulnaris lateralis, extensor carpi radialis, and common
digital extensor muscles. Stimuli consisted of a 25-millisecond
train of 5 constant-current pulses delivered by
a computer-controlled stimulator. The 80- to 250-milliseconds
poststimulation interval was analyzed to
detect the NWR. The current intensity was increased in
steps of 0.5 mA until the NWR threshold intensity (It)
was reached. The stimulus at It was repeated twice.
Latency and amplitude of the NWR, together with the
behavioral reaction of horses, were analyzed. The latter
was scored according to a scale from 0 (no reaction) to
5 (vigorous reaction). Finally, 3 suprathreshold stimuli at
1.2 × It were analyzed.

Results—The median It to elicit NWR was 2.5 mA.
Median onset latency of the NWR was 96.0 milliseconds
at It and 89.6 milliseconds for suprathreshold
stimuli. The amplitude of the reflexes was higher for
suprathreshold stimulations, and behavioral reactions
were slightly stronger when stimulus intensity
increased.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of our
study indicate that it is possible to record NWR in conscious
standing horses, to define a reflex threshold,
and to measure reflexes in response to increasing
stimulus intensity. (Am J Vet Res 2002;63:1551–1556)
Evaluation of intravenous administration of meloxicam for perioperative pain management following stifle joint surgery in dogs
Authors: Budsberg Steven C. , Cross Alan R. , Quandt Jane E. , Pablo Luisito S. , Runk Alice R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare preoperative administration of meloxicam and butorphanol to perioperative administration of butorphanol alone for control of postoperative signs of pain in dogs.

Animals—40 client-owned dogs scheduled for surgical repair of a cranial cruciate ligament rupture.

Procedure—Group-1 dogs received butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg, IV) and meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg, IV) just prior to surgery. Group-2 dogs received butorphanol just prior to surgery (0.2 mg/kg, IV) and at incision closure (0.1 mg/kg, IV). Pain assessment began 1 to 2 hours before surgery and from extubation until 24 hours after surgery by obtaining the following measurements: the visual analog scale (VAS) score, cumulative pain score (CPS), adjusted cumulative pain score, modified cumulative pain score, and the adjusted modified cumulative pain score (AMCPS). Serum cortisol concentration was measured between 12 to 24 and between 1 to 2 hours prior to surgery, and at 30 minutes, and 1, 2, 4, 8, 18, and 24 hours after extubation.

Results—No significant differences between treatment groups were observed in CPS or VAS score. At 8, 9, 10, and 11 hours after extubation, meloxicambutorphanol- treated dogs had a significantly lower AMCPS, compared with butorphanol-alone-treated dogs. Total serum cortisol concentration (area under the curve) during the measurement period was significantly lower in meloxicam-butorphanol-treated dogs, compared with butorphanol-alone treated dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Preoperative single dose administration of meloxicam-butorphanol is equivalent to or slightly better than the administration of 2 perioperative doses of butorphanol for the control of postoperative signs of pain in dogs. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:1557–1563)
Factors regulating collagen synthesis and degradation during second-intention healing of wounds in the thoracic region and the distal aspect of the forelimb of horses
Authors: Schwartz Anne J. , Wilson David A. , Keegan Kevin G. , Ganjam Venkataseshu K. , Sun Yao , Weber Karl T. , Zhang Jiakun
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine significant molecular and cellular factors responsible for differences in secondintention healing in thoracic and metacarpal wounds of horses.

Animals—6 adult mixed-breed horses.

Procedure—A full-thickness skin wound on the metacarpus and another such wound on the pectoral region were created, photographed, and measured, and tissue was harvested from these sites weekly for 4 weeks. Gene expression of type-I collagen, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 were determined by quantitative in situ hybridization. Myofibroblasts were detected by immunohistochemical labeling with α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Collagen accumulation was detected by use of picrosirius red staining. Tissue morphology was examined by use of H&E staining.

Results—Unlike thoracic wounds, forelimb wounds enlarged during the first 2 weeks. Myofibroblasts, detected by week 1, remained abundant with superior organization in thoracic wounds. Type-I collagen mRNA accumulated progressively in both wounds. More type-I collagen and TGF-β1 mRNA were seen in forelimb wounds. Volume of MMP-1 mRNA decreased from day 0 in both wounds. By week 3, TIMP-1 mRNA concentration was greater in thoracic wounds.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Greater collagen synthesis in metacarpal than thoracic wounds was documented by increased concentrations of myofibroblasts, type-I collagen mRNA, TGF-β1 mRNA, and decreased collagen degradation (ie, MMP-1). Imbalanced collagen synthesis and degradation likely correlate with development of exuberant granulation tissue, delaying healing in wounds of the distal portions of the limbs. Factors that inhibit collagen synthesis or stimulate collagenase may provide treatment options for horses with exuberant granulation tissue. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:1564–1570)
Effect of oxytocin treatment in sows on umbilical cord morphology, meconium staining, and neonatal mortality of piglets
Authors: Mota-Rojas Daniel , Martínez-Burnes Julio , Trujillo-Ortega Maria Elena , Alonso-Spilsbury Ma. Lourdes , Ramírez-Necoechea Ramiro , López Alfonso
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the effect of 2 oxytocin products administered to sows at the onset of fetal expulsion on the integrity of umbilical cords, meconium staining, and piglet mortality.

Animals—2099 neonatal pigs.

Procedure—180 parturient sows were randomly assigned to 3 stratified groups of 60 sows each. Two groups of sows were injected IM at the onset of fetal expulsion with 1 of 2 oxytocin commercial products (20, 40, or 50 U for sows weighing 120 to 150 kg, 151 to 250 kg, or ≥ 251 kg, respectively). Control sows were treated IM with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution. Farrowing time, expulsion intervals, and numbers of stillborn and liveborn piglets were recorded for each sow. Piglets were evaluated for inspiratory effort, heart rates, and degree of meconium staining of skin (nonstained, and moderately or severely stained). Umbilical cords were classified as normal in appearance, edematous, congested, hemorrhagic, or ruptured.

Results—Oxytocin-treated sows had a significant decrease in farrowing time and expulsion intervals and also had a significantly higher number of stillborn piglets per litter, compared with control sows. The number of piglets per litter with ruptured and hemorrhagic umbilical cords was significantly greater in oxytocin- treated sows, compared with control sows. In near-death stillborn piglets, oxytocin treatment significantly decreased inspiratory efforts at birth and increased the rate and severity of meconium staining, compared with saline treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Oxytocin given to sows at the onset of fetal expulsion significantly increases the rate of fetal distress, anoxia, and intrapartum death in piglets. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:1571–1574)
Comparison of serologic tests for detection of Brucella infections in cattle and water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Fosgate Geoffrey T. , Adesiyun Abiodun A. , Hird David W. , Johnson Wesley O. , Hietala Sharon K. , Schurig Gerhardt G. , Ryan Joseph
Published: December 2005

Objective—To estimate sensitivity and specificity of
4 commonly used brucellosis screening tests in cattle
and domestic water buffalo of Trinidad, and to compare
test parameter estimates between cattle and
water buffalo.

Animals—391 cattle and 381 water buffalo.

Procedure—4 Brucella-infected herds (2 cattle and 2
water buffalo) and 4 herds (2 of each species) considered
to be brucellosis-free were selected. A minimum
of 100 animals, or all animals > 1 year of age, were
tested from each herd. Serum samples were evaluated
for Brucella-specific antibodies by use of standard
plate agglutination test (SPAT), card test (CT),
buffered plate agglutination test (BPAT), and standard
tube agglutination test (STAT). A Bayesian approach
was used to estimate sensitivity and specificity of
diagnostic tests without the use of a gold standard,
assuming conditional independence of tests.

Results—Sensitivity and specificity estimates in cattle,
respectively, were SPAT, 66.7 and 98.9; CT, 72.7
and 99.6; BPAT, 88.1 and 98.1; and STAT, 80.2 and
99.3. Corresponding test estimates in water buffalo,
respectively, were SPAT, 51.4 and 99.3; CT, 90.4 and
99.4; BPAT, 96.3 and 90.7; and STAT, 75.0 and 98.8.
Sensitivity of the CT and specificity of the BPAT were
different between cattle and water buffalo with at
least 95% probability.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Brucellosis
serologic test performance varied by species tested,
but BPAT had the highest sensitivity for screening cattle
and water buffalo. Sensitivity and specificity of
more than 2 screening tests can be estimated simultaneously
without a gold standard by use of Bayesian
techniques. (Am J Vet Res 2002;63:1598–1605)
A method of probability diagnostic assignment that applies Bayes theorem for use in serologic diagnostics, using an example of Neospora caninum infection in cattle
Authors: Thurmond Mark C. , Johnson Wesley O. , Muñoz-Zanzi Claudia A. , Su Chun-Lung , Hietala Sharon K.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To develop a method of probability diagnostic assignment (PDA) that uses continuous serologic measures and infection prevalence to estimate the probability of an animal being infected, usingNeospora caninumas an example.

Animals—196N caninum-infected beef and dairy cattle and 553 cattle not infected withN caninum; 50 dairy cows that aborted and 50 herdmates that did not abort.

Procedure—Probability density functions corresponding to distributions ofN caninumkinetic ELISA results from infected and uninfected cattle were estimated by maximum likelihood methods. Maximum likelihood methods also were used to estimateN caninuminfection prevalence in a herd that had an excessive number of abortions. Density functions and the prevalence estimate were incorporated into Bayes formula to calculate the conditional probability that a cow with a particular ELISA value was infected withN caninum.

Results—Probability functions identified for infected and uninfected cattle were Weibull and inverse gamma functions, respectively. Herd prevalence was estimated, and probabilities ofN caninuminfection were determined for cows with various ELISA values.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Use of PDA offers an advantage to clinicians and diagnosticians over traditional seronegative or seropositive classifications used as a proxy for infection status by providing an assessment of the actual probability of infection. The PDA permits use of all diagnostic information inherent in an assay, thereby eliminating a need for estimates of sensitivity and specificity. The PDA also would have general utility in interpreting results of any diagnostic assay measured on a continuous or discrete scale.Am J Vet Res(2002; 63:318–325)
Density of corneal endothelial cells, corneal thickness, and corneal diameters in normal eyes of llamas and alpacas
Authors: Andrew Stacy E. , Willis A. Michelle , Anderson David E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine density of corneal endothelial cells, corneal thickness, and corneal diameters in normal eyes of llamas and alpacas.

Animals—36 llamas and 20 alpacas.

Procedure—Both eyes were examined in each camelid. Noncontact specular microscopy was used to determine density of corneal endothelial cells. Corneal thickness was measured, using ultrasonographic pachymetry. Vertical and horizontal corneal diameters were measured, using Jameson calipers.

Results—Values did not differ significantly between the right and left eyes from the same camelid. There was no significant effect of sex on density of corneal endothelial cells or corneal thickness in either species. Mean density of endothelial cells was 2,669 cells/mm2in llamas and 2,275 cells/mm2in alpacas. Density of endothelial cells decreased with age in llamas. Polymegathism was observed frequently in both species. Mean corneal thickness was 608 µm for llamas and 595 µm for alpacas. Corneal thickness and density of endothelial cells were negatively correlated in llamas. Older (> 36 months old) llamas had significantly larger horizontal and vertical corneal diameters than younger llamas, and older alpacas had a significantly larger vertical corneal diameter than younger alpacas.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Density of corneal endothelial cells is only slightly lower in camelids than other domestic species. Density of endothelial cells decreases with age in llamas. Age or sex does not significantly affect corneal thickness in normal eyes of llamas and alpacas. Specular microscopy is useful for determining density of corneal endothelial cells in normal eyes of camelids. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:326–329)
Associations between dry dietary factors and canine calcium oxalate uroliths
Authors: Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol , Osborne Carl A. , Lulich Jody P. , Pusoonthornthum Rosama , Kirk Claudia A. , Ulrich Lisa K. , Koehler Lori A. , Carpenter Kathleen A. , Swanson Laurie L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify factors in dry diets associated with the occurrence of calcium oxalate (CaOx) uroliths in dogs.

Animals—600 dogs with CaOx uroliths and 898 dogs without urinary tract diseases.

Procedure—Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed.

Results—Compared with diets with the highest concentrations of sodium, dry diets with the lowest concentrations of sodium, phosphorus, calcium, chloride, protein, magnesium, or potassium were linearly associated with increased risk of CaOx urolith formation. Significant nonlinear associations between increased occurrence of CaOx uroliths and urine acidifying potential and low moisture content were observed. Significant nonlinear associations between decreased occurrence of CaOx uroliths and carbohydrate and fiber contents were observed. A significant association between the occurrence of CaOx uroliths and dietary fat was not observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that dry diets formulated to contain high concentrations of protein, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and chloride may minimize formation of CaOx uroliths. In addition, comparison of risk and protective factors of various diet ingredients fed to dogs with CaOx uroliths suggests that although similar findings were observed in canned and dry formulations, in general, greater risk is associated with dry formulations. However, before these hypotheses about dietary modifications are adopted by food manufacturers, they must be investigated by use of appropriately designed clinical studies of dogs with CaOx urolithiasis. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:330–337)
Evaluation of Felis domesticus allergen I as a possible autoallergen in cats with eosinophilic granuloma complex
Authors: Wisselink Marinus A. , van Ree Ronald , Willemse Ton
Published: December 2005

Objective—To investigate the role ofFelis domesticusallergen I (Feld I) in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC) in cats.

Animals—7 healthy cats and 6 cats with EGC.

Procedure—Epidermis was removed from 4 areas. Rubber stoppers filled with Feld I, saline (0.9% NaCl) solution, and PBS solution were glued to the skin lesions and removed 48 hours later. Fluid within each stopper was collected. Biopsy specimens were obtained at each site, snap frozen, and stored at –70 C. Total and differential numbers of cells in fluid were counted. Biopsy specimens were stained by use of monoclonal antibodies against feline CD4, CD8 and CD3. Data were analyzed by use of multivariate repeated-measures analysis.

Results—Healthy cats had a significant increase in number of CD3+ cells, compared with number of CD4+ and CD8+ cells, and Feld I caused a significant increase in number of CD3+ cells, compared with PBS or saline solutions. Cats with EGC had a significant increase in number of CD3+ cells, compared with number of CD4+ and CD8+ cells, and Feld I caused a significant increase in number of CD3+ and CD4+ cells, compared with PBS or saline solutions. Cats with EGC had an increased CD4+ response, a significantly decreased CD8+ response, and a significantly increased CD4-to-CD8 ratio compared with healthy cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The increased CD4+ response, significantly decreased CD8+ response, and significantly increased CD4-to-CD8 ratio are comparable to results in atopic people and allergic cats. Therefore, Feld I could be an autoallergen responsible for chronic inflammatory reactions in cats with EGC. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:338–341)
Enteric and nasal shedding of bovine torovirus (Breda virus) in feedlot cattle
Authors: Hoet Armando E. , Cho Kyoung-Oh , Chang Kyeong-Ok , Loerch Steven C. , Wittum Thomas E. , Saif Linda J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To assess fecal and nasal shedding patterns of bovine torovirus (BoTV) in cattle at time of arrival and periodically throughout the first 21 days after arrival at a feedlot.

Animals—57 steers.

Procedure—Fecal and nasal-swab samples collected on days 0, 4, 14, and 21 after arrival were tested for BoTV, using ELISA. A subset of samples from calves testing positive and negative for BoTV was analyzed, using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Paired serum samples were collected on days 0 and 21 and tested for BoTV antibodies, using a hemagglutination inhibition assay.

Results—Overall rate of fecal shedding of BoTV was 21 of 57 (37%) by ELISA and 40 of 42 (95%) by RT-PCR with peak shedding on day 4. Diarrhea was more common in calves shedding BoTV than those not shedding the virus (odds ratio, 1.72). Overall rate of nasal shedding of BoTV was 15 of 57 (26%) by ELISA and 42 of 42 (100%) by RT-PCR, with peak shedding on day 0. Specificity of the RT-PCR product was confirmed by sequence analysis. Approximately 93% of the calves seroconverted to BoTV (> 4-fold increase in titer). Differences were not detected between calves shedding BoTV and nonshedders in relation to disease and treatments, perhaps because of the low number of cattle in the study.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—This study confirmed BoTV infections in feedlot cattle, including BoTV antigen and viral RNA in nasal secretions, and the shedding pattern during the first 21 days after arrival in a feedlot. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:342–348).
Response to Malassezia pachydermatis by peripheral blood mononuclear cells from clinically normal and atopic dogs
Authors: Morris Daniel O. , Clayton Daniel J. , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Felsburg Peter J.
Published: December 2005

Objective–To investigate the potential cell-mediated immune response of atopic dogs to the yeastMalassezia pachydermatisand to correlate it with the type-1 hypersensitivity (humoral) response of the same population of dogs.

Animals–16 clinically normal dogs, 15 atopic dogs withMalasseziadermatitis, 5 atopic dogs withMalasseziaotitis, and 7 atopic control (ie, withoutMalasseziadermatitis or otitis) dogs.

Procedure–A crude extract ofM pachydermatiswas extracted for use as an intradermal allergy testing reagent and for stimulation of isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro. Flow cytometry was also used to assess cell surface antigenic determinants (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD14, CD21, CD45RA, surface immunoglobulin) on peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Results–Atopic dogs with cytologic evidence ofMalasseziadermatitis had an increased lymphocyte blastogenic response to crudeM pachydermatisextract, compared with clinically normal dogs and dogs withMalasseziaotitis. Atopic control dogs did not differ significantly in their responses from atopic dogs withMalasseziadermatitis or otitis. A significant correlation was not found between the lymphocyte blastogenic response and the type-1 hypersensitivity response toM pachydermatiswithin any of the groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance–Cell-mediated and humoral reactivities toM pachydermatiscontribute to the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis in dogs but are not directly correlated. Modification of the dysregulated immune response towardM pachydermatismay assist in the reduction of pathologic changes associated with an atopic dermatitis phenotype in dogs. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:358–362)
Comparison of intraosseous or intravenous infusion for delivery of amikacin sulfate to the tibiotarsal joint of horses
Authors: Scheuch Brad C. , Van Hoogmoed Linda M. , Wilson W. David , Snyder Jack R. , MacDonald Melinda H. , Watson Zara E. , Steffey Eugene P.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To establish the route of infusion (IV or
intraosseous) that results in the highest concentration
of amikacin in the synovial fluid of the tibiotarsal joint
and determine the duration of peak concentrations.

Animals—21 horses.

Procedure—Regional perfusion of a limb on 15 horses
was performed. Amikacin sulfate was infused into the
saphenous vein or via intraosseous infusion into the distal
portion of the tibia (1 g in 56 ml of lactated Ringer's
solution) or proximal portion of the metatarsus (1 g of
amikacin in 26 ml of lactated Ringer's solution).
Amikacin concentrations were measured in sequential
samples from tibiotarsal joint synovial fluid and serum.
Samples were obtained immediately prior to release of
the tourniquet and 0.5, 1, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after the
tourniquet was released. Radiographic contrast material
was infused into the same locations as the antibiotic
perfusate to evaluate distribution in 6 other horses.

Results—Infusion into the saphenous vein produced
the highest concentration of amikacin in the tibiotarsal
joint, compared with the distal portion of the
tibia (mean ± SE, 701.8 ± 366.8 vs 203.8 ± 64.5 µg/ml,
respectively). Use of a lower volume of diluent in the
proximal portion of the metatarsus produced a peak
value of 72.2 ± 23.4 µg/ml.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—For regional
perfusion of the tarsus, IV infusion is preferred to
intraosseous infusion, because higher concentrations
are achieved in the synovial fluid, and the procedure is
easier to perform. (Am J Vet Res 2002;63:374–380).