bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adverse events diagnosed within three days of vaccine administration in dogs
Authors: Moore George E. , Guptill Lynn F. , Ward Michael P. , Glickman Nita W. , Faunt Karen K. , Lewis Hugh B. , Glickman Lawrence T.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine incidence rates and potential risk factors for vaccine-associated adverse events (VAAEs) diagnosed within 3 days of administration in dogs.

Design—Retrospective cohort study.

Animals—1,226,159 dogs vaccinated at 360 veterinary hospitals.

Procedure—Electronic records from January 1, 2002, through December 31, 2003, were searched for possible VAAEs (nonspecific vaccine reaction, allergic reaction, urticaria, or anaphylaxis) diagnosed within 3 days of vaccine administration. Information included age, weight, sex, neuter status, and breed. Specific clinical signs and treatments were reviewed in a random sample of 400 affected dogs. The association between potential risk factors and a VAAE was estimated by use of multivariate logistic regression.

Results—4,678 adverse events (38.2/10,000 dogs vaccinated) were associated with administration of 3,439,576 doses of vaccine to 1,226,159 dogs. The VAAE rate decreased significantly as body weight increased. Risk was 27% to 38% greater for neutered versus sexually intact dogs and 35% to 64% greater for dogs approximately 1 to 3 years old versus 2 to 9 months old. The risk of a VAAE significantly increased as the number of vaccine doses administered per office visit increased; each additional vaccine significantly increased risk of an adverse event by 27% in dogs ≤ 10 kg (22 lb) and 12% in dogs > 10 kg.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Young adult small-breed neutered dogs that received multiple vaccines per office visit were at greatest risk of a VAAE within 72 hours after vaccination. These factors should be considered in risk assessment and risk communication with clients regarding vaccination. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1102–1108)
Prevalence of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in a population of dogs with lameness previously attributed to hip dysplasia: 369 cases (1994–2003)
Authors: Powers Michelle Y. , Martinez Steven A. , Lincoln James D. , Temple Cara J. , Arnaiz Arthur
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the prevalence of cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) in dogs with lameness previously attributed to canine hip dysplasia (CHD).

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—369 client-owned dogs.

Procedures—Hospital medical records from 1994 to 2003 were reviewed for dogs in which the referring veterinarian had diagnosed hip dysplasia or hip pain. Dogs were designated as having hind limb lameness because of partial or complete CCLR or CHD.

Results—8% of dogs were sexually intact females, 43% were spayed females, 14% were sexually intact males, and 35% were castrated males. Mean age was 3.8 years (range, 3 months to 15 years). The most common breeds were the Labrador Retriever (21%), German Shepherd Dog (13%), and Golden Retriever (11%). The prevalence of CCLR as the cause of hind limb lameness was 32% (95% confidence interval, 27.2% to 36.8%). The distribution of CCLR among hind limbs was left (29%), right (28%), and bilateral (43%). Of 119 dogs with CCLR, 94% had concurrent radiographic signs of CHD, 92% had stifle joint effusion, and 81% had a cranial drawer sign.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—On the basis of the high prevalence of CCLR in dogs referred for lameness because of CHD, it is important to exclude other sources of stifle joint disease before making recommendations for treatment of CHD. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1109–1111)
Gastrointestinal tract perforation in dogs treated with a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor: 29 cases (2002–2003)
Authors: Lascelles B. Duncan X. , Blikslager Anthony T. , Fox Steven M. , Reece Doug
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify factors associated with gastrointestinal tract perforation in dogs being treated with a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor (deracoxib).

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—29 dogs.

Procedure—The Novartis Animal Health pharmacovigilance database was searched for records of dogs treated with deracoxib in which gastrointestinal tract perforation was documented.

Results—16 of the 29 (55%) dogs had received deracoxib at a dosage higher than that approved by the FDA for the particular indication being treated, with 25 (86%) dogs having received deracoxib at a dosage > 2 mg/kg/d (0.9 mg/lb/d). Seventeen (59%) dogs had received at least 1 other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or a corticosteroid in close temporal association (within 24 hours) with deracoxib administration (ie, immediately before or following). In all, 26 (90%) dogs had received deracoxib at a higher-than-approved dosage or had received at least 1 other NSAID or corticosteroid in close temporal association with deracoxib administration. Twenty dogs died or were euthanatized, and 9 survived.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In dogs with gastrointestinal tract perforation and that had been treated with deracoxib, perforation was most likely attributable to a number of factors. Deracoxib should only be used at approved dosages. Cortico-steroids and other less selective NSAIDs should not be administered in close temporal association with selective COX-2 inhibitors, including deracoxib. Further study is required to define this problem. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1112–1117)
Response rates and survival times for cats with lymphoma treated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison chemotherapy protocol: 38 cases (1996–2003)
Authors: Milner Rowan J. , Peyton Jamie , Cooke Kirsten , Fox Leslie E. , Gallagher Alexander , Gordon Patti , Hester Juli
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine response rates and survival times for cats with lymphoma treated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison chemotherapy protocol.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—38 cats with lymphoma.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed, and information on age, sex, breed, FeLV and FIV infection status, anatomic form, clinical stage, and survival time was obtained. Immunophenotyping was not performed.

Results—Mean ± SD age of the cats was 10.9 ± 4.4 years. Overall median survival time was 210 days (interquartile range, 90 to 657 days), and overall duration of first remission was 156 days (interquartile range, 87 to 316 days). Age, sex, anatomic form, and clinical stage were not significantly associated with duration of first remission or survival time. Eighteen of the 38 (47%) cats had complete remission, 14 (37%) had partial remission, and 6 (16%) had no response. Duration of first remission was significantly longer for cats with complete remission (654 days) than for cats with partial remission (114 days). Median survival time for cats with complete remission (654 days) was significantly longer than median survival time for cats with partial remission (122 days) and for cats with no response (11 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that a high percentage of cats with lymphoma will respond to treatment with the University of Wisconsin-Madison chemotherapy protocol. Age, sex, anatomic form, and clinical stage were not significantly associated with duration of first response or survival time, but initial response to treatment was. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1118–1122)
Evaluation of risk factors for development of catheter-associated jugular thrombophlebitis in horses: 50 cases (1993–1998)
Authors: Dolente Brett A. , Beech Jill , Lindborg Susan , Smith Gary
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate risk factors associated with development of catheter-associated jugular thrombophlebitis in hospitalized horses.

Design—Retrospective case-control study.

Animals—50 horses with thrombophlebitis and 100 control horses.

Procedure—Medical records from 1993 through 1998 were searched for horses with thrombophlebitis. Horses that were hospitalized for at least 5 days, had an IV catheter placed in a jugular vein (other than for solely anesthetic purposes), and had no evidence of thrombophlebitis during admission or hospitalization were chosen as controls. Signalment, history, clinicopathologic findings, primary illness, and treatment were obtained from the medical records. Data were analyzed by use of logistic regression to perform univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results—For a horse with endotoxemia, the odds of developing thrombophlebitis were 18 times those for a similar horse without endotoxemia. For a horse with salmonellosis, the odds of developing thrombophlebitis were 68 times those for a similar horse without salmonellosis. For a horse with hypoproteinemia, the odds of developing thrombophlebitis were almost 5 times those for a similar horse without hypoproteinemia. For a horse in the medicine section, the odds of developing thrombophlebitis were 16 times those for a similar horse in the surgery section. For a horse with large intestinal disease, the odds of developing thrombophlebitis were 4 times those for a similar horse without large intestinal disease. For a horse receiving antidiarrheal or antiulcerative medications, the odds of developing thrombophlebitis were 31 times those for a similar horse not receiving these medications.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that patient factors, including large intestinal disease, hypoproteinemia, salmonellosis, and endotoxemia, were associated with development of catheter-associated thrombophlebitis in horses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1134–1141)
Reliability of using reagent test strips to estimate blood urea nitrogen concentration in dogs and cats
Authors: Berent Allyson C. , Murakami Tsuyoshi , Scroggin Richard D. , Borjesson Dori L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the clinical accuracy of
reagent test strips used to estimate BUN concentration
in dogs and cats.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—116 dogs and 58 cats.

Procedure—Blood samples were collected at the
time of admission to the hospital. Estimates of BUN
concentration obtained with reagent test strips (category
1 [5 to 15 mg/dL], 2 [15 to 26 mg/dL], 3 [30 to 40
mg/dL], or 4 [50 to 80 mg/dL]) were compared with
SUN concentrations measured with an automated
analyzer. For dogs, category 1 and 2 test strip results
were considered a negative result (nonazotemic) and
category 3 and 4 test strip results were considered a
positive result (azotemic). For cats, category 1, 2, and
3 test strip results were considered a negative result
(nonazotemic) and category 4 test strip results were
considered a positive result (azotemic).

Results—On the basis of SUN concentration, 40 of
the 174 (23%) animals (20 dogs and 20 cats) were
classified as azotemic. One dog and 2 cats had falsenegative
test strip results, and 1 dog had a false-positive
result. Sensitivity and specificity were 95%
(20/21) and 99% (94/95), respectively, for dogs and
87% (13/15) and 100% (43/43), respectively, for cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that reagent test strips are a reliable method for
rapidly estimating BUN concentrations in dogs and cats.
Because test strip results are only semiquantitative and
there remains a potential for misclassification, especially
in cats, urea nitrogen concentration should ultimately
be verified by means of standard chemistry techniques.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:1253–1256)
Comparison of the calving-to-conception interval in dairy cows with different degrees of lameness during the prebreeding postpartum period
Authors: Hernandez Jorge A. , Garbarino Eduardo J. , Shearer Jan K. , Risco Carlos A. , Thatcher William W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare calving-to-conception intervals among cows classified as nonlame, moderately lame, or lame during the prebreeding postpartum period and to examine the relationship between severity of lameness and time to conception in cows that were classified as lame.

Design—Longitudinal study.

Animals—499 Holstein cows.

Procedure—Cows in the prebreeding postpartum period were classified as nonlame, moderately lame, or lame by use of a 6-point locomotion scoring system. Time to conception (days) was compared among cows. A low, medium, or high cumulative locomotion score was assigned to lame cows, and time to conception among those cows was compared. Cows classified as lame were examined on a tilt table for diagnosis and treatment of lameness.

Results—154 (31%), 214 (43%), and 131 (26%) cows were classified as nonlame, moderately lame, and lame, respectively. Most cows classified as lame had laminitis (54%) or disorders of the claw (33%). Median time to conception was 36 to 50 days longer in lame cows than in nonlame cows. Among lame cows, the median time to conception was 66 days longer in cows with high cumulative locomotion scores than in cows with low scores.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Nonlame cows became pregnant more quickly than lame cows. Lame cows with low cumulative locomotion scores during the prebreeding postpartum period became pregnant sooner than lame cows with high scores. Early diagnosis and intervention may mitigate the effects of lameness and improve reproductive performance in lame dairy cows. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1284–1291)
Evaluation of a cow-side immunoassay kit for assessing IgG concentration in colostrum
Authors: Chigerwe Munashe , Dawes Maisie E. , Tyler Jeff W. , Middleton John R. , Moore Malantus P. , Nagy Dusty M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine sensitivity and specificity of a cow-side immunoassay kit for assessing IgG concentration in colostrum.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—76 dairy and 11 beef cows of various parities.

Procedure—Colostrum from first, second, and third milkings and milk samples were collected, and IgG concentration was determined by means of radial immunodiffusion. The immunoassay was performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and sensitivity and specificity were calculated by comparing results of the immunoassay (positive vs negative) with results of immunodiffusion (< 50 g/L vs ≥ 50 g/L).

Results—135 colostrum or milk samples were collected. Mean ± SD colostral IgG concentrations, determined by means of radial immunodiffusion for dairy and beef cows were 65.4 ± 51.4 g/L and 114.8 ± 42.7 g/L, respectively. Mean IgG concentrations for first-, second-, and third-milking colostrum samples and for milk samples were 92 ± 49.0 g/L, 74.6 ± 45.1 g/L, 47.5 ± 32 g/L, and 6.8 ± 3.8 g/L, respectively. Sensitivity of the immunoassay (ie, percentage of samples with IgG concentration < 50 g/L with a positive immunoassay result) was 93%, and specificity (ie, percentage of samples with IgG concentration ± 50 g/L with a negative immunoassay result) was 76%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that the immunoassay kit was an acceptable cow-side test to identify colostrum samples with IgG concentrations < 50 g/L. The immunoassay kit should be useful in screening colostrum for adequate IgG concentration before feeding to calves or storage. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:129–131)
Effect of paratuberculosis on culling, milk production, and milk quality in dairy herds
Authors: Hendrick Steven H. , Kelton David F. , Leslie Ken E. , Lissemore Kerry D. , Archambault Marie , Duffield Todd F.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the effect of paratuberculosis on culling, milk production, and milk quality in infected dairy herds.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—689 lactating dairy cows in 9 herds.

Procedure—Milk, blood, and fecal samples were obtained from all cows. Fecal samples were evaluated via mycobacterial culture. Serum samples were tested with a commercially available ELISA for antibodies againstMycobacterium aviumsubspparatuberculosis, and preserved milk samples were tested with an ELISA for antibodies againstM paratuberculosis. Mixed effect and proportional hazards models were used to determine the effect of paratuberculosis on 305-day milk, fat, and protein production; somatic cell count linear score; and the risk of culling.

Results—Cows with positive results of bacteriologic culture of feces and milk ELISA produced less milk, fat, and protein, compared with herdmates with negative results. No difference in 305-day milk or fat production was detected in cows with positive results of serum ELISA, compared with seronegative cows. The 3 survival analyses revealed that cows with positive results of each test were at higher risk of being culled than cows with negative results. Paratuberculosis status, as determined by use of all 3 diagnostic tests, was not associated with milk somatic cell count linear score.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that for the 9 herds in this study, paratuberculosis significantly decreased milk production and cow longevity. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1302–1308)
Evaluation of hemodynamic measurements, including lithium dilution cardiac output, in anesthetized dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Miyake Yukari , Wagner Ann E. , Hellyer Peter W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To measure cardiac output in healthy female anesthetized dogs by use of lithium dilution cardiac output and determine whether changes in mean arterial pressure were caused by changes in cardiac output or systemic vascular resistance.

Design—Prospective clinical study.

Animals—20 healthy female dogs.

Procedure—Dogs were anesthetized for ovariohysterectomy. Ten dogs breathed spontaneously throughout anesthesia, and 10 dogs received intermittent positive-pressure ventilation. Cardiovascular and respiratory measurements, including lithium dilution cardiac output, were performed during anesthesia and surgery.

Results—Mean arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance index were low after induction of anesthesia and just prior to surgery and increased significantly after surgery began. Cardiac index (cardiac output indexed to body surface area) did not change significantly throughout anesthesia and surgery.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results provide baseline data for cardiac output and cardiac index measurements during clinical anesthesia and surgery in dogs. Changes in mean arterial pressure do not necessarily reflect corresponding changes in cardiac index. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1419–1423)
Putative aqueous humor misdirection syndrome as a cause of glaucoma in cats: 32 cases (1997–2003)
Authors: Czederpiltz Jessica M. C. , La Croix Noelle C. , Woerdt Alexandra van der , Bentley Ellison , Dubielzig Richard R. , Murphy Christopher J. , Miller Paul E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To characterize the clinical and morphologic aspects of aqueous humor misdirection syndrome (AHMS) in cats and provide a hypothesis regarding its pathogenesis on the basis of detailed analysis of affected cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—32 cats (40 eyes).

Procedure—Medical records of cats in which AHMS was diagnosed from July 1997 to August 2003 were reviewed. In certain cats, results of additional diagnostic testing were also obtained, including A-scan, B-scan, and high-resolution ultrasonography; streak retinoscopy; video keratometry; and infrared neutralizing videoretinoscopy as well as results of analysis of flash-frozen sections and histologic examination of enucleated globes.

Results—Cats had a uniformly shallow anterior chamber, intact lens zonules, and a narrowed approach to an open iridocorneal angle. Mean age of affected cats was 11.7 years (range, 4 to 16 years), and female cats were significantly more often affected than male cats. Clinical signs included mydriasis, decreased pupillary light reflex, decreased menace response, and blindness. Glaucomatous changes to the optic nerve, incipient cataracts, and eventual blindness were seen. Intraocular pressure was ≥ 20 mm Hg (range, 12 to 58 mm Hg) in 32 of 40 eyes. Ultrasonography and histologic examination revealed a thickened anterior vitreal face interposed between the lens and ciliary body, partial ciliary cleft collapse, and cavitated vitreal regions. Various treatment modalities were used.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—AHMS affects older cats, especially females, and may result in glaucoma, vision loss, and signs of ocular pain. Topical administration of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors decreased intraocular pressure. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1434–1441)
Outcome of dogs with high-grade soft tissue sarcomas treated with and without adjuvant doxorubicin chemotherapy: 39 cases (1996–2004)
Authors: Selting Kim A. , Powers Barbara E. , Thompson Laura J. , Mittleman Elise , Tyler Jeff W. , Lafferty Mary H. , Withrow Stephen J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To examine the effect of adjuvant doxorubicin chemotherapy on outcome in dogs with highgrade (grade 3) soft tissue sarcomas (HGSTSs).

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—39 dogs.

Procedures—Medical records of dogs with HGSTSs were reviewed. Dogs treated with surgery alone or receiving single-agent doxorubicin chemotherapy postoperatively were included in the study. Owners and referring veterinarians were contacted for followup information. Slides from histologic sections were reviewed to confirm the diagnosis of HGSTSs. Cases in which follow-up examination was not performed and radiation therapy or chemotherapy other than doxorubicin was administered were excluded.

Results—39 dogs met inclusion criteria. Twenty-one dogs received adjuvant doxorubicin. Tumor-, patient-, and treatment-related variables were not significantly associated with measured outcomes including local, metastatic, and overall disease-free intervals as well as survival time. Overall median disease-free interval was 724 days with a median survival time of 856 days for all dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Adjuvant doxorubicin-based chemotherapy did not benefit this population of dogs with HGSTSs. Outcome for visceral HGSTSs was similar to that of nonvisceral HGSTSs in these cases. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1442–1448)
Cardiac lymphoma and pericardial effusion in dogs: 12 cases (1994–2004)
Authors: MacGregor John M. , Faria Maria L. E. , Moore Antony S. , Tobias Anthony H. , Brown Donald J. , de Morais Helio S. A.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical characteristics and clinicopathologic findings, including results of pericardial fluid analysis, and determine the outcome associated with pericardial effusion caused by cardiac lymphoma in dogs.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—12 dogs.

Procedure—Medical records of affected dogs were reviewed for echocardiographic findings, radiographic findings, results of pericardial fluid analysis, clinicopathologic findings, treatment protocols, and outcomes.

Results—Pericardial effusion was detected by echocardiography in all 12 dogs, and lymphoma was detected by cytologic examination of the effusion (11/12 dogs) or histologic examination of pericardium (3/12). Large-breed dogs were overrepresented; median weight was 40.5 kg (89.1 lb). Most hematologic and biochemical changes were mild and nonspecific. Survival time for dogs treated with combination chemotherapeutic agents was 157 days and for dogs that did not receive chemotherapy survival time was 22 days. This difference was not significant, but several dogs had long-term survival.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cardiac lymphoma is an uncommon cause of pericardial effusion, and results suggest that cardiac lymphoma does not always warrant the poor prognosis of other stage V, substage b lymphomas. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005; 227:1449–1453)
Prognostic value of magnetic resonance imaging in dogs with paraplegia caused by thoracolumbar intervertebral disk extrusion: 77 cases (2000–2003)
Authors: Ito Daisuke , Matsunaga Satoru , Jeffery Nick D. , Sasaki Nobuo , Nishimura Ryohei , Mochizuki Manabu , Kasahara Mihoko , Fujiwara Reina , Ogawa Hiroyuki
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether magnetic resonance
imaging findings in dogs with paraplegia
caused by thoracolumbar intervertebral disk extrusion
were predictive of clinical outcome.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—77 dogs.

Procedure—Medical records and magnetic resonance
images were reviewed; clinical outcome was
classified as successful (regained ability to walk with
no more than mild neurologic deficits) or unsuccessful
(severe neurologic deficits persisted). The prognostic
value of magnetic resonance imaging was
compared with prognostic value of deep pain perception,
duration of clinical signs, and rate of onset of
clinical signs.

Result—33 (43%) dogs had areas of hyperintensity of
the spinal cord greater than or equal to the length of
the L2 vertebral body on T2-weighted magnetic resonance
images. All 44 dogs without areas of hyperintensity
on T2-weighted images had a successful outcome,
but only 18 of the 33 (55%) dogs with an area
of hyperintensity did. Only 5 of 16 dogs with an area
of hyperintensity that had also lost deep pain perception
had a successful outcome. The odds ratio for an
unsuccessful outcome for a dog with an area of
hyperintensity (29.87) was higher than the odds ratio
for a dog that had lost deep pain perception (5.24).
Duration and rate of onset of clinical signs were not
associated with clinical outcome.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Findings suggest
that results of magnetic resonance imaging can
be used to predict clinical outcome in dogs with paraplegia
caused by intervertebral disk extrusion. (J Am
Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:1454–1460)
Ultrasonographic assessment of change in abomasal position during the last three months of gestation and first three months of lactation in Holstein-Friesian cows
Authors: Wittek Thomas , Constable Peter D. , Morin Dawn E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine changes in abomasal position and dimensions during the last 3 months of gestation and first 3 months of lactation via transabdominal ultrasonography and determine whether surgical correction of left-displaced abomasum (LDA) by right flank omentopexy alters abomasal position within the abdomen in Holstein-Friesian cows.

Design—Observational study.

Animals—20 heifers and 20 cows with no history of an LDA and 7 cows that had been treated for LDA via right flank omentopexy during an earlier lactation.

Procedure—Ultrasonographic measurements were obtained 8 times during the last 3 months of gestation and first 3 months of lactation. Abomasal length, width, and volume were calculated from these measurements.

Results—The abomasum was always wider than it was long and located predominantly to the right of the midline. The presence of a right flank omentopexy had no effect on the measured parameters. Abomasal length decreased and width increased during the last 3 months of gestation, resulting in a more transverse orientation of the abomasum within the abdomen. These changes appeared to be in response to cranial expansion of the gravid uterus. The abomasum returned to a more caudal and right sagittal position within 14 days after parturition.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Abomasal dimensions, position, and volume change markedly during the last 3 months of gestation and first 3 months of lactation. Results permit detection of abnormal abomasal position in ill cows and indicate that the preferred location for abomasopexy is 20 cm caudal to the xiphoid process and 5 to 10 cm to the right of the ventral midline. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1469–1475)
Estimate of the annual economic impact of treatment of cranial cruciate ligament injury in dogs in the United States
Authors: Wilke Vicki L. , Robinson Duane A. , Evans Rich B. , Rothschild Max F. , Conzemius Michael G.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To estimate the economic impact to veterinary clients for the medical and surgical treatment of rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (RCCL) in dogs for the year 2003.

Design—Economic impact survey.

Sample Population—501 diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) indicating that their area of surgical emphasis was small animal orthopedic surgery or small animal general and orthopedic surgery and 4,000 veterinarians indicating to the AVMA that their professional area was small animal practice exclusive or mixed animal practice (at least 80% small animal).

Procedure—Veterinarians were surveyed concerning the cost for medical and surgical treatment of RCCL for 2003. The economic impact was calculated by multiplying the number of RCCL surgeries performed by the mean cost of surgery. This was added to the number of RCCL cases managed medically multiplied by the mean cost of medical management. This estimate for survey responders was extrapolated to the total number of veterinarians in the study population for the ACVS or AVMA.

Results—Estimates for the total cost of surgery were $171,730,134.72 and $1,020,167,907 for veterinarians in the ACVS and AVMA populations, respectively. The cost of medical management was $2,885,687.86 and $126,558,155.16 for veterinarians in the ACVS and AVMA populations, respectively. After combining the ACVS and AVMA populations, we estimated that owners spent $1.32 billion for the treatment of RCCL in the United States in 2003.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—RCCL is a prevalent, costly injury. Results may motivate veterinary and consumer agencies to prioritize funding for a better understanding of the injury. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005; 227:1604–1607)
Correlation between hepatobiliary scintigraphy and surgery or postmortem examination findings in dogs and cats with extrahepatic biliary obstruction, partial obstruction, or patency of the biliary system: 18 cases (1995–2004)
Authors: Head Laurie L. , Daniel Gregory B.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the usefulness of serum biochemical variables and scintigraphic study results for differentiating between dogs and cats with complete extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHO) and those with partial EHO or patent bile ducts.

Study Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—17 dogs and 1 cat.

Procedure—Animals that underwent hepatobiliary scintigraphy and had either surgical or postmortem confirmation of the degree of bile duct patency were included. Scintigraphic images were evaluated and biliary tracts were classified as patent, partially obstructed but patent, or obstructed. Surgery or postmortem examination was considered the gold standard for diagnosis, and compared with those findings, sensitivity and specificity of scintigraphy were calculated.

Results—With absence of radioactivity in the intestinal tract as the diagnostic criterion for EHO, the sensitivity and specificity of scintigraphic diagnosis were both 83% when final images were acquired at 19 to 24 hours, compared with 100% and 33%, respectively, when 180 minutes was used as the cutoff time. Animals with partial biliary obstruction had less intestinal radioactivity that arrived later than that observed in animals with patent biliary tracts.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Animals in which intestinal radioactivity has not been observed after the standard 3 to 4 hours should undergo additional scintigraphic imaging. Findings in animals with partial biliary obstruction include delayed arrival of radioactivity and less radioactivity in the intestine. Distinguishing between complete and partial biliary tract obstruction is important because animals with partial obstruction may respond favorably to medical management and should not be given an erroneous diagnosis of complete obstruction. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1618–1624)
Prognostic factors associated with survival two years after surgery in dogs with malignant mammary tumors: 79 cases (1998–2002)
Authors: Chang Shih-Chieh , Chang Chao-Chin , Chang Tien-Jye , Wong Min-Liang
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify prognostic factors for female dogs that have undergone surgical removal of malignant mammary tumors.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—79 female dogs with malignant mammary tumors.

Procedure—Information obtained from the medical records included breed, age, sex, tumor size (maximum diameter), number and location of affected mammary glands, time between tumor identification and surgical removal, radiographic evidence of distant metastasis, surgical procedure, ovariohysterectomy (OHE) status, histologic classification of the tumor, and survival time.

Results—Results of univariate analyses indicated that clinical stage, tumor size, OHE status, metastasis to adjacent lymph nodes or distant sites, and histologic classification of the tumor were significantly associated with survival 2 years after surgery. Tumors ≥ 5 cm in diameter and tumors that had been identified > 6 months before surgery were more likely to metastasize to adjacent lymph nodes. Ovariohysterectomy was more beneficial in dogs with complex carcinomas than in dogs with simple carcinomas. In multivariate analyses, clinical stage, tumor size, and OHE status were significantly associated with survival 2 years after surgery.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that tumor stage, tumor size, and OHE status were significant prognostic factors associated with survival 2 years after surgery in dogs with malignant mammary tumors. Further, either dogs with tumors ≥ 5 cm in diameter or dogs with tumors present for > 6 months prior to surgery had a higher risk of having lymph node metastases. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1625–1629)
Use of color Doppler echocardiography to assess the development of valvular regurgitation in Standardbred trotters
Authors: Buhl Rikke , Ersbøll Annette K. , Eriksen Lis , Koch Jørgen
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the incidence and development of valvular regurgitation and its effect on racing performance in Standardbred trotters from 2 to 3.5 years of age.

Design—Longitudinal observational study.

Animals—103 horses.

Procedure—Horses were examined via echocardiographic imaging 4 times at 6-month intervals. Twodimensional and M-mode echocardiographic examinations were performed in each horse, and color Doppler imaging was used to detect and evaluate regurgitant blood flow at each valve.

Results—For all cardiac valves, the frequency of valvular regurgitation increased significantly during the 18-month study period. Regurgitation was mild in all valves in which it was detected, and no progression in severity was observed at any valve. Tricuspid regurgitation was more prevalent in horses that raced regularly and was diagnosed more frequently in males and horses with larger left ventricular mass and left ventricular internal diameter during diastole. No relationship between racing performance and valvular regurgitation was observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The incidence of valvular regurgitation increased during the study period, and it was common at 3.5 years of age. It was not possible to determine whether the increase was a result of maturity or training. The study revealed that there is a high prevalence of mild valvular regurgitation at this age, but apparently, the regurgitation had no effect on racing performance in this age group. Whether regurgitation will progress or influence future performance is not known. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1630–1635)
Evaluation of five commercially available assays and measurement of serum total protein concentration via refractometry for the diagnosis of failure of passive transfer of immunity in foals
Authors: Davis Rachel , Giguère Steeve
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine and compare sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and predictive values of measurement of serum total protein concentration by refractometry as well as 5 commercially available kits for the diagnosis of failure of passive transfer (FPT) of immunity in foals.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—65 foals with various medical problems and 35 clinically normal foals.

Procedure—IgG concentration in serum was assessed by use of zinc sulfate turbidity (assay C), glutaraldehyde coagulation (assay D), 2 semiquantitative immunoassays (assays F and G), and a quantitative immunoassay (assay H). Serum total protein concentration was assessed by refractometry. Radial immunodiffusion (assays A and B) was used as the reference method.

Results—For detection of IgG < 400 mg/dL, sensitivity of assay H (100%) was not significantly different from that of assays C, E, and G (88.9%). Specificity of assays H (96.0%) and G (95.8%) was significantly higher than that of assays C (79.4%) and E (78.1%). For detection of IgG < 800 mg/dL, sensitivities of assays H (97.6%), D (92.9%), C (81.0%), and G (81.0%) were significantly higher than that of assay F (52.4%). Specificity of assays F (100%), G (94.7%), and H (82.8%) was significantly higher than that of assays C (56.9%) and D (58.6%). Serum total protein concentration ≤ 4.5 g/dL was suggestive of FPT, whereas values ≥ 6.0 g/dL indicated adequate IgG concentrations.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Most assays were adequate as initial screening tests. However, their use as a definitive test would result in unnecessary treatment of foals with adequate IgG concentrations. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1640–1645)
Evaluation of a behavioral assessment questionnaire for use in the characterization of behavioral problems of dogs relinquished to animal shelters
Authors: Segurson Sheila A. , Serpell James A. , Hart Benjamin L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate a behavioral intake questionnaire in animal shelters for the presence of biased results and assess its use in the characterization of behavioral problems of dogs relinquished to shelters.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—54 dogs being relinquished to a shelter and 784 dogs belonging to veterinary clients.

Procedure—Owners who were relinquishing their dogs and agreed to complete the behavioral questionnaire were alternately assigned to 1 of 2 groups; participants were aware that information provided would be confidential or nonconfidential (ie, likely used for adoption purposes). Data from confidential and nonconfidential information groups were compared, and the former were compared with data (collected via the questionnaire) regarding a population of client-owned dogs.

Results—Analyses revealed significant differences in 2 areas of reported problem behavior between the confidential and nonconfidential information groups: owner-directed aggression and stranger-directed fear. Compared with client-owned–group data, significantly more relinquished shelter dogs in the confidential information group were reported to have ownerdirected aggression, stranger-directed aggression, dog-directed aggression or fear, stranger-directed fear, nonsocial fear, and separation-related behaviors.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Among persons relinquishing dogs to a shelter, those who believed questionnaire responses were confidential reported owner-directed aggression and fear of strangers in their pets more frequently than relinquishers who believed responses were nonconfidential. Confidentiality had no apparent effect on the reporting of other assessed behavioral problems. Results suggest that behavioral questionnaires may sometimes provide inaccurate information in a shelter setting, but the information may still be useful when evaluating behavior of relinquished dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1755–1761)
Serum 17-α-hydroxyprogesterone and corticosterone concentrations in dogs with nonadrenal neoplasia and dogs with suspected hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Behrend Ellen N. , Kemppainen Robert J. , Boozer A. Lindsay , Whitley Elizabeth M. , Smith Annette N. , Busch K. Ann
Published: December 2005

Objective—To assess serum 17-α-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) and corticosterone concentrations in dogs with nonadrenal neoplasia and dogs being screened for hyperadrenocorticism.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—16 clinically normal dogs, 35 dogs with nonadrenal neoplasia, and 127 dogs with suspected hyperadrenocorticism.

Procedure—ACTH stimulation tests were performed in all dogs. Baseline serum cortisol and corticosterone concentrations were measured in the healthy dogs; baseline serum cortisol concentration and ACTH-stimulated cortisol, corticosterone, and 17OHP concentrations were measured in all dogs. Endogenous plasma ACTH concentration was also measured before administration of ACTH in dogs with neoplasia.

Results—In 35 dogs with neoplasia, 31.4% had high serum 17OHP concentration and 22.9% had high serum corticosterone concentration. Of the 127 dogs with suspected hyperadrenocorticism, 59 (46.5%) had high ACTH-stimulated cortisol concentrations; of those, 42 of 59 (71.2%) and 32 of 53 (60.4%) had high serum 17OHP and corticosterone concentrations, respectively. Of dogs with serum cortisol concentration within reference range after ACTH administration, 9 of 68 (13.2%) and 7 of 67 (10.4%) had high serum 17OHP and corticosterone concentrations, respectively. In the dogs with neoplasia and dogs suspected of having hyperadrenocorticism, post-ACTH serum hormone concentrations were significantly correlated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Serum concentrations of 17OHP or corticosterone after administration of ACTH may be high in dogs with nonadrenal neoplasia and no evidence of hyperadrenocorticism. Changes in serum 17OHP or corticosterone concentrations after administration of ACTH are proportionate with changes in cortisol concentration. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1762–1767)
Analysis of the impact of trap-neuter-return programs on populations of feral cats
Authors: Foley Patrick , Foley Janet E. , Levy Julie K. , Paik Terry
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate 2 county trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs for feral cat population management via mathematical modeling.

Design—Theoretical population model.

Animals—Feral cats assessed from 1992 to 2003 in San Diego County, California (n = 14,452), and from 1998 to 2004 in Alachua County, Florida (11,822).

Procedure—Data were analyzed with a mathematical Ricker model to describe population dynamics of the feral cats and modifications to the dynamics that occurred as a result of the TNR programs.

Results—In both counties, results of analyses did not indicate a consistent reduction in per capita growth, the population multiplier, or the proportion of female cats that were pregnant.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Success of feral cat management programs that use TNR can be monitored with an easily collected set of data and statistical analyses facilitated by population modeling techniques. Results may be used to suggest possible future monitoring and modification of TNR programs, which could result in greater success controlling and reducing feral cat populations. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1775–1781)
Owner impressions of three premium diets fed to healthy adult dogs
Authors: Sanderson Sherry L. , Finco Delmar R. , Pogrelis Asa D. , Stacy Lisa M. , Unger Carrie F.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine owner impressions of 3 premium
canine diets when factors such as price and retail
source were removed; to compare body condition
scores (BCSs) assigned by owners versus a veterinarian;
and to determine consistency of owner impressions of
diets when owners were not informed that they were
feeding the same diet during 2 consecutive periods.

Design—Randomized controlled trial.

Animals—44 healthy adult dogs.

Procedure—During the initial 12 months of the study,
dogs were each fed 3 premium diets for 4 months in
random order. After feeding each diet for 1 and 4
months, owners completed questionnaires regarding
palatability of the diet; the dog's attitude, energy level,
fecal consistency, frequency of defecation, hair coat
quality, and BCS; and whether they would feed the
diet if available commercially. During the last 4
months of the study, owners fed the same diet they
had been feeding during the previous 4 months.

Results—Scores for most variables did not differ
among diets. However, mean BCS assigned by owners
was significantly lower than mean BCS assigned
by an investigator, with a moderate correlation
between scores. When asked at the end of the third
and fourth study periods whether they would consider
feeding the diet long-term, 12 of the 44 (27%) owners
gave inconsistent responses.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate
that when unaware of retail price and source,
owners have similar impressions of 3 premium diets
fed to healthy adult dogs, suggesting that factors
other than the diets themselves may affect owner
impressions. Owners also underestimate their dog's
BCS. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:1931–1936)
Comparison of oral and subcutaneous administration of buprenorphine and meloxicam for preemptive analgesia in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Gassel Adam D. , Tobias Karen M. , Egger Christine M. , Rohrbach Barton W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare the effectiveness of preoperative PO and SC administration of buprenorphine and meloxicam for prevention of postoperative pain-associated behaviors in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

Design—Randomized controlled study.

Animals—51 female cats (4 to 60 months old; weight range, 1.41 to 4.73 kg [3.1 to 10.4 lb]).

Procedure—Cats received 1 of 5 treatments at the time of anesthetic induction: buprenorphine PO (0.01 mg/kg [0.0045 mg/lb]; n = 10), buprenorphine SC (0.01 mg/kg; 10), meloxicam SC (0.3 mg/kg [0.14 mg/lb]; 10), meloxicam PO (0.3 mg/kg; 10), or 0.3 mL of sterile saline (0.9% NaCl) solution SC (control group; 11). Sedation scores and visual analog scale and interactive visual analog scale (IVAS) pain-associated behavior scores were assigned to each cat 2 hours before and at intervals until 20 hours after surgery.

Results—Cats receiving meloxicam PO or SC had significantly lower IVAS scores (2.91 and 2.02, respectively), compared with IVAS scores for cats receiving buprenorphine PO (7.55). Pain-associated behavior scores for cats administered buprenorphine or meloxicam PO or SC preoperatively did not differ significantly from control group scores. Rescue analgesia was not required by any of the cats receiving meloxicam, whereas 3 of 10 cats receiving buprenorphine PO, 2 of 10 cats receiving buprenorphine SC, and 1 of 11 cats receiving the control treatment required rescue analgesia.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—On the basis of pain-associated behavior scores, cats receiving meloxicam PO or SC before ovariohysterectomy appeared to have less pain after surgery than those receiving buprenorphine PO preoperatively. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1937–1944)
Outcome following surgical removal of nonvisceral soft tissue sarcomas in cats: 42 cases (1992–2000)
Authors: Dillon Christopher J. , Mauldin G. Neal , Baer Keith E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify factors associated with outcome of cats with nonvisceral soft tissue sarcomas treated with surgery alone.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—42 cats.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed for clinically relevant data, and histologic samples were examined. Follow-up information was obtained by means of physical examination or through telephone conversations with referring veterinarians and owners. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to construct survival curves.

Results—Median survival time was 608 days (range, 85 to 2,291 days), although 24 cats were still alive at the time of the study. Tumor size (ie, diameter) and histologic type were significantly associated with survival time. Median survival time was significantly longer in cats with tumors that were < 2 cm in diameter, compared with cats in which tumors were > 2 cm. Median survival times for cats with a fibrosarcoma or nerve sheath tumor were significantly longer than median time for cats with a malignant fibrous histiocytoma.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that tumor size and type are significantly associated with survival time in cats with nonvisceral soft tissue tumors. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1955–1957)