bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Results of cerebrospinal fluid analysis, neurologic examination findings, and age at the onset of seizures as predictors for results of magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in dogs examined because of seizures: 115 cases (1992–2000)
Authors: Bush William W. , Barr Christina S. , Darrin Edwin W. , Shofer Frances S. , Vite Charles H. , Steinberg Sheldon A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether neurologic examination findings, results of CSF analysis, or age at the onset of seizures could be used to predict whether results of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) would be normal or abnormal in dogs with seizures.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—115 dogs.

Procedure—Information on results of neurologic examination, results of CSF analysis, age at the onset of seizures, and results of MRI was obtained from the medical records.

Results—Results of MRI were abnormal in 61 dogs and normal in 54. Sensitivity and specificity of neurologic examination alone were 77 (47/61) and 91% (49/54), respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of CSF analysis alone were 79 (48/61) and 69% (37/54), respectively. Results of MRI were abnormal for 12 of 28 (43%) dogs with abnormal CSF analysis results and normal neurologic examination results but for only 2 of 35 (6%) dogs with normal CSF analysis and normal neurologic examination results. Similarly, results of MRI were abnormal for 36 of 37 (97%) dogs with abnormal CSF analysis and abnormal neurologic examination results but for only 11 of 15 (73%) dogs with normal CSF analysis results and abnormal neurologic examination results. Age at the onset of seizures (< 6 vs ≥ 6 years old) was not significantly associated with results of MRI.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that neurologic examination findings and results of CSF analysis are useful in predicting whether results of MRI will be abnormal in dogs examined because of seizures, but age at the onset of seizures is not. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:781–784)
Use of a pool-raft system for recovery of horses from general anesthesia: 393 horses (1984–2000)
Authors: Sullivan Eileen K. , Klein Lin V. , Richardson Dean W. , Ross Michael W. , Orsini James A. , Nunamaker David M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To describe the pool-raft recovery system protocol and to evaluate the clinical outcome inhorses that underwent recovery from general anes-thesia using this system.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—393 horses that underwent recovery fromgeneral anesthesia in the pool-raft system.

Procedure—Anesthetic records were examined fromhorses recovered from anesthesia in the pool-raft sys-tem between January 1984 and December 2000.Complete medical records of horses were examinedwhen available. Information regarding the anestheticand recovery period was recorded. Horses first recov-ered from general anesthesia in the pool-raft and,once awake, were transported to a recovery stall andlowered to the floor in a standing position.

Results—351 horses underwent 1 pool-raft recovery,and 42 horses underwent multiple pool-raft recover-ies. Most horses were recovered from general anes-thesia within the pool-raft system to safeguard repairof a major orthopedic injury. During 471 pool-raftrecoveries, 34 (7%) horses had complications withinthe recovery pool and 62 (13%) had complicationswithin the recovery stall. Deaths resulted from complete failure of internal fixation, pulmonary dysfunc-tion, or a combination of pulmonary dysfunction andfixation failure in 2% (10/471) of horses that under-went pool-raft recoveries.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The pool-raftsystem is a good option for recovery from generalanesthesia. Although not a fail-safe system, itappears to decrease the complications of recoveringhorses in a high-risk category. Potential disadvan-tages of this system are added expense and man-power necessary in building, maintenance, andusage, as well as size limitations of the raft itself. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;221:1014–1018)
Disposition and clinical use of bromide in cats
Authors: Boothe Dawn Merton , George Kelly L. , Couch Pauline
Published: January 2006

Objective—To establish a dosing regimen for potassium bromide and evaluate use of bromide to treat spontaneous seizures in cats.

Design—Prospective and retrospective studies.

Animals—7 healthy adult male cats and records of 17 cats with seizures.

Procedure—Seven healthy cats were administered potassium bromide (15 mg/kg [6.8 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h) until steady-state concentrations were reached. Serum samples for pharmacokinetic analysis were obtained weekly until bromide concentrations were not detectable. Clinical data were obtained from records of 17 treated cats.

Results—In the prospective study, maximum serum bromide concentration was 1.1 ± 0.2 mg/mL at 8 weeks. Mean disappearance half-life was 1.6 ± 0.2 weeks. Steady state was achieved at a mean of 5.3 ± 1.1 weeks. No adverse effects were detected and bromide was well tolerated. In the retrospective study, administration of bromide (n = 4) or bromide and phenobarbital (3) was associated with eradication of seizures in 7 of 15 cats (serum bromide concentration range, 1.0 to 1.6 mg/mL); however, bromide administration was associated with adverse effects in 8 of 16 cats. Coughing developed in 6 of these cats, leading to euthanasia in 1 cat and discontinuation of bromide administration in 2 cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Therapeutic concentrations of bromide are attained within 2 weeks in cats that receive 30 mg/kg/d (13.6 mg/lb/d) orally. Although somewhat effective in seizure control, the incidence of adverse effects may not warrant routine use of bromide for control of seizures in cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1131–1135)
Characteristics of free-roaming cats evaluated in a trap-neuter-return program
Authors: Scott Karen C. , Levy Julie K. , Crawford P. Cynda
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine characteristics of free-roaming cats evaluated in a trap-neuter-return program.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—5,323 free-roaming cats.

Procedure—Data collected included sex, maturity, pregnancy status, number of fetuses per pregnancy, cryptorchidism, and occurrence of complications or euthanasia.

Results—Adult cats represented 85% of the population, and 57% were female. Overall, 19% of adult females were pregnant, and mean litter size was 3.6 fetuses. Pregnancy rate peaked at 36 to 47% of all females evaluated in March and April and decreased to ≤ 4% from October through January. Cryptorchidism was observed in 1.9% of the males; 0.4% of the adult females had pyometra. Only 1.9% of the cats were already neutered. Euthanasia and unexpected death rates were 0.4 and 0.3%, respectively. The most common severe problems encountered included pyometra, neoplasia, surgical complications, diaphragmatic hernia, debilitation, and chronic inflammatory diseases.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Neutering programs for free-roaming cats should include preparations to perform more spays than castrations. Typically, almost half of the female cats trapped during spring will be pregnant. Cryptorchidism is uncommon but is encountered on a consistent basis, so care should be taken to differentiate previous castration from retained testicles. Euthanasia of debilitated cats for humane reasons is rarely necessary, and unexpected deaths occur at a low rate. It is feasible and safe to neuter large numbers of free-roaming cats in large-scale clinics. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1136–1138)
Comparison of paste and suspension formulations of omeprazole in the healing of gastric ulcers in racehorses in active training
Authors: Nieto Jorge E. , Spier Sharon , Pipers Frank S. , Stanley Scott , Aleman Monica R. , Smith Donald C. , Snyder Jack R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare effects of a commercially available omeprazole paste and a compounded omeprazole suspension on healing of gastric ulcers in Thoroughbred racehorses in active training.

Design—Randomized controlled trial.

Animals—32 horses with gastric ulcers.

Procedure—Horses were assigned to 2 groups on the basis of endoscopic gastric ulcer severity. Group-1 horses were treated with omeprazole suspension for 30 days and with omeprazole paste for an additional 30 days. Group-2 horses were treated with omeprazole paste for 30 days and omeprazole suspension for an additional 30 days. Serum omeprazole concentrations were measured in 4 additional healthy horses after administration of a single dose of each formulation. In all instances, omeprazole was administered at a dose of 4 mg/kg (1.8 mg/lb), PO.

Results—Ulcer severity scores on day 0 were not significantly different between groups. On day 30, ulcer severity score was significantly decreased, compared with day-0 score, in group-2 but not in group-1 horses. On day 60, ulcer severity score was significantly decreased, compared with day-0 and day-30 scores, in group-1 horses. In group-2 horses, ulcer severity score on day 60 was significantly lower than the day-0 score but was not significantly different from the day-30 score. Maximum observed serum omeprazole concentration and area under the concentration-time curve were significantly higher after administration of the paste versus the suspension formulation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that although administration of the commercially available paste omeprazole formulation was effective in promoting healing of gastric ulcers in these horses, administration of the compounded omeprazole suspension was ineffective. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1139–1143)
Neospora caninum serostatus and milk production of Holstein cattle
Authors: Hobson Jamie C. , Duffield Todd F. , Kelton David , Lissemore Kerry , Hietala Sharon K. , Leslie Ken E. , McEwen Beverly , Cramer Gerard , Peregrine Andrew S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whetherNeospora caninumserostatus was associated with milk production among Holstein cattle in Ontario.

Design—Case-control study and cross-sectional observational study.

Animals—3,702 Holstein cows in 83 herds (casecontrol study) and 3,162 Holstein cows in 57 herds.

Procedure—Herds in the case-control study were grouped on the basis ofN caninumabortion status. Herds in the observational study were considered representative of Ontario dairy herds. TheN caninumserostatus of individual cows was determined with a kinetic ELISA. Milk production was modeled to compare seropositive with seronegative animals while controlling for parity, days since parturition, and herd clustering.

Results—In the case-control study, 305-day milk production of seropositive cows was significantly less than milk production of seronegative cows in herds with abortions attributable toN caninuminfection and in herds with abortions attributable to pathogens other thanN caninum, but not in herds without abortion problems. In the observational study, 305-day milk production for seropositive cows was not significantly different from milk production of seronegative cows.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the association betweenN caninumserostatus and milk production in Ontario Holstein dairy cattle may depend on abortion status of the herd. In herds with abortion problems, regardless of cause,N caninum-seropositive cattle produced less milk, whereas in herds without abortion problems,N caninum-seropositive cattle produced the same amount of milk as seronegative cattle. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1160–1164)
Return-to-sensibility problems after penetrating captive bolt stunning of cattle in commercial beef slaughter plants
Authors: Grandin Temple
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate efficacy of penetrating captive bolt stunning of cattle in commercial beef slaughter plants and identify potential causes of a return to sensibility among stunned cattle.

Design—Observational study.

Sample Population—21 federally inspected commercial beef slaughter plants.

Procedure—In each plant, stunning of at least 100 cattle (19 large plants) or a minimum of 1 hour of production (2 small plants) was observed, and cattle were evaluated for signs of returning to sensibility on the bleed rail. Cattle with a limp, flaccid head, a lack of spontaneous blinking, and an absence of a righting reflex were considered insensible.

Results—In 17 of the 21 (81%) plants, all cattle were rendered insensible before they were hoisted onto the bleed rail. The remaining 4 plants had cattle that had signs of returning to sensibility; these cattle were restunned prior to skinning or leg removal. Of 1,826 fed steers and heifers, 3 (0.16%) had signs of returning to sensibility, whereas 8 of 692 (1.2%) bulls and cows did. Return-to-sensibility problems were attributed to storage of stunner cartridges in damp locations, poor maintenance of firing pins, inexperience of the stunner operator (ie, shooting cattle too high on the forehead), misfiring of the stunner because of a dirty trigger, and stunning of cattle with thick, heavy skulls.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that efficiency of captive bolt stunning of cattle in commercial slaughter plants can be safely and objectively assessed. Care should be taken to maintain stunners correctly, particularly when stunning bulls and cows with heavy skulls. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1258–1261)
Effects of preoperative administration of ketoprofen on anesthetic requirements and signs of postoperative pain in dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Lemke Kip A. , Runyon Caroline L. , Horney Barbara S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effects of preoperative administration of ketoprofen on anesthetic requirements and signs of postoperative pain in dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy.

Design—Randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Animals—22 clinically normal client-owned dogs.

Procedure—60 minutes before induction of anesthesia, 11 dogs were given ketoprofen (2 mg/kg [0.9 mg/lb], IM), and the other 11 were given saline (0.9% NaCl) solution. Dogs were premedicated with glycopyrrolate, acepromazine, and butorphanol and anesthetized with thiopental; anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane. Ovariohysterectomy was performed by an experienced surgeon, and butorphanol was given 15 minutes before completion of the procedure. Objective behavioral scores and numerical pain scores at rest and with movement were recorded every 2 hours for 12 hours after surgery and then every 4 hours for an additional 12 hours.

Results—Preoperative administration of ketoprofen did not reduce the dose of thiopental required to induce anesthesia or the end-tidal concentration of isoflurane required to maintain anesthesia. Activity levels and median objective behavioral scores were significantly higher 4 and 6 hours after surgery in dogs given ketoprofen than in dogs given saline solution. However, mean numerical pain scores in dogs given ketoprofen were not significantly different from scores for dogs given saline solution at any time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that preoperative administration of ketoprofen does not reduce anesthetic requirements in dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy but may reduce signs of pain after surgery. Results also suggest that the objective behavioral score may be a more sensitive measure of acute postoperative pain than traditional numerical pain scores. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1268–1275)
Comparison of glucose concentrations in blood samples obtained with a marginal ear vein nick technique versus from a peripheral vein in healthy cats and cats with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Thompson Melanie D. , Taylor Susan M. , Adams Vicki J. , Waldner Cheryl L. , Feldman Edward C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare blood glucose (BG) concentrations
measured with a portable blood glucose
meter in blood samples obtained with a marginal ear
vein (MEV) nick technique, from a peripheral venous
catheter, and by direct venipuncture in healthy cats
and cats with diabetes mellitus.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—10 healthy cats and 11 cats with diabetes
mellitus.

Procedure—On day 1, blood samples were collected
every hour for 10 hours by the MEV nick technique
and from a peripheral venous catheter. On day 2,
blood samples were collected every hour for 10 hours
by the MEV nick technique and by direct venipuncture
of the medial saphenous vein.

Results—For all cats, mean BG concentration for
samples collected by the MEV nick technique was
not significantly different from mean concentration
for samples obtained from the peripheral venous
catheter. For healthy cats, mean BG concentration for
samples collected by the MEV nick technique was
not significantly different from mean concentration
for samples obtained by direct venipuncture. For cats
with diabetes mellitus, mean BG concentration for
samples collected by the MEV nick technique was
significantly different from mean concentration for
samples obtained by direct venipuncture; however,
for the range of concentrations examined, this difference
was not clinically important.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that for the range of concentrations examined,
the MEV nick technique is a reasonable alternative to
venous blood collection for serial measurement of BG
concentrations in cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;
221:389–392)
Ultrasonographic appearance of edema caused by injections in the mammary gland attachments of dairy cows
Authors: O'Brien Robert T. , Waller III Kenneth R. , Matheson Jodi S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the ultrasonographic appearance and detectability of edema induced by SC injection of mild silver protein suspension in the mammary gland attachments of dairy cows.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—6 lactating cows.

Procedure—In each cow, the number of quarters that received injections was randomly assigned. A mild silver protein susoension was injected SC into cranial and caudal mammary gland attachment sites. The number of injections and volume injected were determined on the basis of the appearance of the mammary gland and the desired subjective visual effect. Seventeen sites were chosen for injection and 7 sites did not receive injections. Ultrasonographic images were obtained 1 day prior and 6 days after injections were started. Cows received injections 1, 3, and 5 days after initial sonography. The sonographer was unaware of which sites received injections.

Results—Ultrasonography revealed alternating hypoechoic and hyperechoic bands at injection sites. Certain injections caused the intimal surface of the subcutaneous abdominal vein to develop a corrugated appearance. All injection sites were correctly identified ultrasonographically (100% sensitivity, 100% specificity) with a positive and negative predictive value of 1.0.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that mild silver protein suspension injected SC to enhance the appearance of the mammary glands of dairy cows can be readily detected by ultrasonography. Detection of injection sites should be made on the basis of the distribution and ultrasonographic appearance of edema. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:408–410)
Evaluation of sedative and cardiorespiratory effects of romifidine and romifidine-butorphanol in cats
Authors: Selmi André L. , Barbudo-Selmi Glenda R. , Moreira Carla F. , Martins Christine S. , Lins Bruno T. , Mendes Guilherme M. , McManus Concepta
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine sedative and cardiorespiratory effects of romifidine alone and romifidine in combination with butorphanol and effects of preemptive atropine administration in cats sedated with romifidine-butorphanol.

Design—Randomized crossover study.

Animals—6 healthy adult cats.

Procedures—Cats were given saline (0.9% NaCl) solution followed by romifidine alone (100 µg/kg [45.4 µg/lb], IM), saline solution followed by a combination of romifidine (40 µg/kg [18.1 µg/lb], IM) and butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg [0.09 mg/lb], IM), or atropine (0.04 mg/kg [0.02 mg/lb], SC) followed by romifidine (40 µg/kg, IM) and butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg, IM). Treatments were administered in random order, with ≥ 1 week between treatments. Physiologic variables were determined before and after drug administration. Time to recumbency, duration of recumbency, time to recover from sedation, and subjective evaluation of sedation, muscle relaxation, and analgesia were assessed.

Results—Bradycardia developed in all cats that received saline solution and romifidine-butorphanol or romifidine alone. Preemptive administration of atropine prevented bradycardia for 50 minutes in cats given romifidine-butorphanol. Oxyhemoglobin saturation was significantly decreased 10 minutes after romifidine-butorphanol administration in atropinetreated cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that administration of romifidine alone or romifidine-butorphanol causes a significant decrease in heart rate and that preemptive administration of atropine in cats sedated with romifidine-butorphanol effectively prevents bradycardia for 50 minutes. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221: 506–510)
Cross-sectional study of serum antibodies against Sarcocystis neurona in cats tested for antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Rossano Mary G. , Murphy Alice J. , Vrable Ruth A. , Vanzo Nicole E. , Lewis Stacy K. , Sheline Katherine D. , Kaneene John B. , Mansfield Linda S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine apparent seroprevalence of
antibodies against Sarcocystis neurona in a population
of domestic cats previously tested for antibodies
against Toxoplasma gondii.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Sample Population—Serum from 196 domestic cats.

Procedure—Banked serum samples submitted to
the Michigan State University Animal Health
Diagnostic Laboratory for T gondii diagnostic testing
were tested for antibodies against S neurona by use
of an indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) test and a
western blot test. Submission records were analyzed
to determine descriptive statistics and test for associations
between positive results of a test for S neurona
and other variables in the data set.

Results—10 of 196 (5%) samples yielded positive
results for antibodies against S neurona by use of
western blot analysis, whereas 27 samples yielded
positive results by use of the IFA. No association was
found between S neurona western blot test results
and T gondii test results, age, sex, or the reason for T
gondii testing. The S neurona IFA titer was positively
and significantly associated with positive results of
western blot analysis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Domestic
cats are not likely to play a substantial role as intermediate
hosts in the natural life cycle of S neurona.
Results indicate that natural infection of domestic
cats may occur, and small animal practitioners should
be aware of this fact when evaluating cats with neurologic
disease. The S neurona IFA test had lower
specificity than western blot analysis. (J Am Vet Med
Assoc 2002;220:511–514)
Comparison of the effects of four antiarrhythmic treatments for familial ventricular arrhythmias in Boxers
Authors: Meurs Kathryn M. , Spier Alan W. , Wright Nicola A. , Atkins Clarke E. , DeFrancesco Teresa C. , Gordon Sonya G. , Hamlin Robert L. , Keene Bruce W. , Miller Matthew W. , Moise N. Sydney
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effect of 4 antiarrhythmic
treatment protocols on number of ventricular premature
complexes (VPC), severity of arrhythmia, heart
rate (HR), and number of syncopal episodes in Boxers
with ventricular tachyarrhythmias.

Design—Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Animals—49 Boxers.

Procedure—Dogs with > 500 VPC/24 h via 24-hour
ambulatory ECG (AECG) were treated with atenolol
(n = 11), procainamide (11), sotalol (16), or mexiletine
and atenolol (11) for 21 to 28 days. Results of pre- and
posttreatment AECG were compared with regard to
number of VPC/24 h; maximum, mean, and minimum
HR; severity of arrhythmia; and occurrence of syncope.

Results—Significant differences between pre- and
posttreatment number of VPC, severity of arrhythmia,
HR variables, or occurrence of syncope were not
observed in dogs treated with atenolol or procainamide.
Significant reductions in number of VPC,
severity of arrythmia, and maximum and mean HR
were observed in dogs treated with mexiletineatenolol
or sotalol; occurrence of syncope was not significantly
different between these 2 treatment groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Treatment
with sotalol or mexiletine-atenolol was well tolerated
and efficacious. Treatment with procainamide or
atenolol was not effective. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;221:522–527)
Effect of hemi-circumferential periosteal transection and elevation in foals with experimentally induced angular limb deformities
Authors: Read Emma K. , Read Matt R. , Townsend Hugh G. , Clark Christopher R. , Pharr John W. , Wilson David G.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effect of hemi-circumferential periosteal transection and elevation (HCPTE) in foals with experimentally induced angular limb deformities.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—10 healthy foals.

Procedure—When foals were 30 days old, transphyseal bridge implants were placed on the lateral aspects of both distal radial physes. At 90 days of age (or when 15 degrees of angulation had developed), implants were removed, and HCPTE was performed on 1 limb. Foals were confined in small pens after surgery; the front feet of the foals were rasped weekly to maintain medial-to-lateral hoof wall balance. Dorsopalmar radiographic projections of the carpi were obtained before HCPTE and 2, 4, 6, 8, and 48 weeks later.

Results—At the time of transphyseal bridge removal and HCPTE, both treated and control limbs were observed to have a significantly greater carpal valgus, compared with the initial degree of angulation at 30 days of age. Following HCPTE or sham surgery, all limbs straightened over the subsequent 2 months of the study. Median angulation was not significantly different between treated and control limbs at any time during the study.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that in foals with experimentally induced limb deformities, HCPTE was no more effective than stall confinement and hoof trimming alone for correction of the deformity. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:536–540)
Jejunoileal anastomosis following small intestinal resection in horses: seven cases (1999–2001)
Authors: Loesch Dawn A. , Rodgerson Dwayne H. , Haines Gregory R. , Watt Bruce C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To report the postoperative outcome in
horses undergoing jejunoileal anastomosis performed
with a 2-layer simple continuous technique.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—7 horses.

Procedure—Information regarding signalment, clinical
signs, findings at surgery, and postoperative complications
was obtained from medical records of horses
that underwent exploratory ventral midline celiotomy,
small intestinal resection, and jejunoileal anastomosis
to correct various small intestinal strangulating
lesions. Follow-up information was obtained via telephone
conversations with owners or trainers.

Results—Six males and 1 female of various breeds
aged 10 months to 27 years and weighing 312 to 785 kg
(686.4 to 1,727 lb) were included. The most common
complications were mild to moderate tachycardia and
mild to moderate signs of abdominal pain. Two horses
developed incisional infections and soft, fluctuant
swelling at the incision site following resolution of the
infection. Follow-up time ranged from 7 to 17 months
after surgery. Owners reported no further colic episodes
and no diet change necessary following surgery. All
horses had returned to their intended level of use.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Advantages to
the jejunoileal technique include maintaining the normal
ileocecal valve and a postoperative recovery period
similar to that described following other small
intestinal anastomoses. Jejunoileal anastomosis is a
viable alternative to ileal bypass. This technique
appears to result in a postoperative complication rate
similar to that reported following jejunojejunostomy
procedures. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;221:541–545)
Open versus closed bilateral anal sacculectomy for treatment of non-neoplastic anal sac disease in dogs: 95 cases (1969–1994)
Authors: Hill Lawrence N. , Smeak Daniel D.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine complications associated with anal sacculectomy in dogs with non-neoplastic anal sac disease and compare complication rates for open versus closed techniques.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—95 dogs.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed for information on signalment, history, physical examination findings, type of anal sac disease, surgical technique (closed, standard open [surgery performed prior to 1980], or modified open [surgery performed after 1980]), and postoperative complications.

Results—In 57 dogs, a closed technique was used, and in 38, an open technique was used. Only 3 dogs developed short-term complications (excessive drainage, scooting and inflammation, and seroma formation), and 14 developed long-term complications (continued licking of the surgery site, fecal incontinence, fistulation, and stricture formation). Development of postoperative complications was significantly associated with surgical technique. Dogs that underwent standard open sacculectomy prior to 1980 were 13.67 times as likely to have a long-term complication as were dogs that underwent closed sacculectomy. Weight of the dog, type of anal sac disease, age at the time of surgery, and whether the wound was closed surgically were not significantly associated with whether dogs developed postoperative complications.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that anal sacculectomy is a safe and effective treatment for non-neoplastic anal sac disease in dogs and is associated with a low rate of complications. The standard open technique was associated with the greatest number of complications, whereas complication rates for the closed and modified open techniques were similar to each other. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:662–665)
Risk factors, prognostic indicators, and outcome of pyothorax in cats: 80 cases (1986–1999)
Authors: Waddell Lori S. , Brady Colleen A. , Drobatz Kenneth J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify risk factors associated with
development of pyothorax in cats, assess survival
rates for cats that are treated, determine prognostic
indicators, and determine recurrence rates.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—80 cats with pyothorax and 212 control
cats.

Procedure—History; month of evaluation; physical
examination findings; results of hematologic, serum
biochemical, and retrovirus testing; radiographic findings;
outcome; recurrence rate; and necropsy findings
were recorded. For control cats, age, sex,
breed, indoor versus outdoor status, vaccination history,
and single- versus multi-cat household status
were recorded.

Results—Cats from multi-cat households were 3.8
times as likely (95% confidence interval, 1.9 to 8.2) to
develop pyothorax, compared with cats from singlecat
households. Indoor or outdoor status was not a
risk factor. Cats with pyothorax were significantly
younger (mean, 3.83 ± 3.43 years) than controls
(mean, 5.62 ± 5.27 years). Nonsurvivors had significantly
lower heart rates than survivors. Hypersalivation
was significantly more common in nonsurvivors
(11/39; 26.8%) than survivors (1/39; 3%).
Overall, 48.8% (39/80) of cats survived. When cats
that were euthanatized without treatment were
excluded from analyses, the survival rate was 66.1%
(39/59). Pyothorax recurred in 1 of 17 cats for which
follow-up information was obtained.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cats with
pyothorax that received treatment had a fair to good
prognosis, with low recurrence rates in survivors.
Hypersalivation and low heart rate were associated
with worse clinical outcome. Cats with pyothorax
were likely to come from multi-cat households. (J Am
Vet Med Assoc 2002;221:819–824)
Evaluation of the relationship between injuries and size of gestation stalls relative to size of sows
Authors: Anil Leena , Anil Sukumarannair S. , Deen John
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether there is a relationship
between sow injuries and size of gestation stalls
relative to sow size.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—267 pregnant sows.

Procedure—Sows were randomly selected from 4
swine farms. Sow and stall measurements were
obtained, and injuries were scored on the basis of location,
number, and depth. Ratios of stall length to sow
length and stall width to sow height were calculated.

Results—High injury scores were associated with
low ratios of stall length to sow length and stall width
to sow height.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A small increase
in stall dimensions could reduce injuries and improve
well-being of sows considerably. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2002;221:834–836)
Use of rocuronium for endotracheal intubation of North American Gulf Coast box turtles
Authors: Kaufman Gretchen E. , Seymour Rosemarie E. , Bonner Barbara B. , Court Michael H. , Karas Alicia Z.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether rocuronium, a
reversible neuromuscular blocking agent, would provide
safe, short-term immobilization to facilitate endotracheal
intubation in turtles.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—30 healthy adult Gulf Coast box turtles.

Procedure—Turtles were given rocuronium, and
responses were recorded every 3 minutes. Times
to onset of effects, intubation, and recovery were
recorded and analyzed for associations with dose
and patient characteristics to determine an optimal
dose range. Neostigmine and glycopyrrolate were
given to augment recovery from neuromuscular
blockade.

Results—Rocuronium administered at a dose of
0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg (0.11 to 0.23 mg/lb), IM, permitted
intubation; lower doses were not effective.
Mean ± SD time to loss of the palpebral reflex was
6.4 ± 4.0 minutes, and mean time to intubation was
9.2 ± 6.4 minutes. Mean time to return of the palpebral
reflex was 44 ± 13.2 minutes, and mean time to
walking was 55 ± 16.6 minutes. Time to onset of
effects was not associated with dose, but recovery
times were prolonged with higher doses of rocuronium.
Cardiac arrhythmias were observed in 13
(43%) turtles.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration
of rocuronium at a dose of 0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg is
a safe and effective adjunct to general anesthesia in
Gulf Coast box turtles. Because rocuronium does
not provide any analgesic or sedative effects, the
duration of neuromuscular blockade without anesthesia
should be minimized to avoid undue distress.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:1111–1115)
Seroprevalence of antibodies against Leishmania spp among dogs in the United States
Authors: Grosjean Nicole L. , Vrable Ruth A. , Murphy Alice J. , Mansfield Linda S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine seroprevalence of antibodies
against Leishmania spp among dogs other than
Foxhounds in the United States.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Sample Population—957 serum samples from dogs
throughout the United States submitted between
January 2000 and August 2001 to the Diagnostic
Center for Population and Animal Health at Michigan
State University for serologic testing for tick-borne
diseases.

Procedure—Samples were tested for antibodies
against Leishmania spp with an immunofluorescent
antibody (IFA) assay. Samples with positive results
were submitted to the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention for confirmatory testing.

Results—Results of the IFA assay were negative for
939 of 957 samples. For 16 samples, titers were from
1:16 to 1:64, and titers in these dogs were considered
likely to be a result of cross-reactivity with antibodies
directed against other organisms. For the
remaining 2 samples, the titers were ≥ 1:128. One of
these samples was from a blood donor dog that had
never had any clinical signs of leishmaniasis. Followup
samples from both dogs also had Leishmania IFA
titers ≥ 1:128. Both dogs had antibodies against
Trypanosoma cruzi, as determined with a radioimmunoprecipitation
assay.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested
that the seroprevalence of antibodies against
Leishmania spp in dogs in the United States was low.
However, results further suggested that leishmaniasis
may not be limited to Foxhounds in the United
States. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:603–606)
Evaluation of frequent milkout for treatment of cows with experimentally induced Escherichia coli mastitis
Authors: Leininger Dagny J. , Roberson Jerry R. , Elvinger François , Ward Daniel , Akers R. Michael
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effect of frequent milkout (FMO) on the outcome of experimentally inducedEscherichia colimastitis in cows.

Design—Randomized complete block study.

Animals—16 Holstein dairy cows.

Procedure—Cows were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups and were either not infected and not treated (NI-NT), experimentally infected withE coliand not treated (EC-NT), not infected and FMO (NI-FMO), or experimentally infected withE coliand FMO (EC-FMO). The infected quarter in cows in FMO groups was milked out every 4 hours from 16 to 36 hours and every 6 hours from 36 to 84 hours after challenge, with the aid of oxytocin administration. Somatic cell counts (SCC); times to bacterial, clinical, and systemic cures; and serum concentrations of α-lactalbumin were determined.

Results—Use of FMO did not appear to affect SCC. For EC-NT and EC-FMO groups, mean bacterial cure times were 203 and 159 hours, clinical cure times were 276 and 360 hours, and systemic cure times were 144 and 159 hours, respectively; these times were not significantly different. Concentrations of α-lactalbumin were significantly increased in the EC-NT group at 12 hours and in the NI-FMO group at 36 and 60 hours after challenge, compared with values of cows in other treatment groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Compared with results in control cows, FMO does not appear to be an efficacious treatment for experimentally induced moderate to severeE colimastitis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:63–66)
Trends in national surveillance for rabies among bats in the United States (1993–2000)
Authors: Mondul Alison M. , Krebs John W. , Childs James E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To describe surveillance trends and epidemiologic features of rabies in bats in the United States, focusing on 3 bat species primarily associated with variants of the rabies virus that affect humans.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—31,380 bats.

Procedure—Data on rabies for bats identified to species and reported by state laboratories from 1993 to 2000 were analyzed, focusing on silver-haired, eastern pipistrelle, and Brazilian free-tailed bats. Categoric variables were derived from other provided information.

Results—Data were reported from 37 states during the study interval; complete species-specific data were not reported by any state for the entire interval. Bats primarily associated with rabies virus variants affecting humans were more likely to yield positive test results for rabies (22.7%), compared with all other bats (5.5%) in most seasons and from most regions of the United States. However, certain other bat species had higher percentages of positive results. Risk of positive results was highest in the fall and highest among bats originating in the southwestern United States.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Increased risk of rabies among certain groups of bat species was consistently found across seasons and most geographic regions of the United States. Results were in general agreement with those of previous studies conducted within smaller geographic regions. There are ongoing efforts to improve surveillance of rabies in bats, although surveillance is incomplete in some regions. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222: 633–639)
Desmitis of the straight sesamoidean ligament in horses: 9 cases (1995–1997)
Authors: Schneider Robert K. , Tucker Russell L. , Habegger Scott R. , Brown Jennifer , Leathers Charles W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine clinical signs, diagnostic findings, and outcome for horses with desmitis of the straight sesamoidean ligament (SSL) near its insertion on the middle phalanx.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—9 horses.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed, and information on signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnostic findings, and treatment was obtained. Followup information was obtained through telephone conversations with owners.

Results—In all horses, the diagnosis was made by use of high-resolution ultrasonography. Seven horses had moderate lameness on initial examination; lameness was exacerbated in 6 horses following flexion of the distal limb joints. The cause of lameness could not be determined on the basis of clinical signs, and diagnostic local anesthesia was necessary to localize the source of lameness to the distal portion of the limb. Five horses had forelimb involvement (1 bilateral), and 4 had hind limb involvement (1 bilateral). Treatment consisted primarily of a 6-month rest and rehabilitation program. Six of the 9 horses were able to return to their intended use.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that injury to the SSL proximal to its insertion on the middle phalanx should be considered as a possible cause of lameness in horses, particularly performance horses, with lameness localized to the distal portion of the forelimb or hind limb that do not have any radiographic abnormalities. High-resolution ultrasonography was necessary to make the diagnosis. Horses with an acute injury appeared to have a reasonable chance of responding to treatment and returning to their intended use. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:973–977)
Use of a polymerase chain reaction assay to detect bovine leukosis virus in dairy cattle
Authors: Nagy Dusty W. , Tyler Jeff W. , Kleiboeker Steven B. , Stoker Aaron
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the use of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay in detecting bovine leukosis virus (BLV) in adult dairy cows.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—223 adult dairy cows.

Procedure—Cows were tested for BLV status by use of an ELISA and a PCR assay. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values of positive and negative tests, and the percentage of cows correctly classified by PCR assay were calculated. Ninety-five percent confidence intervals were calculated for sensitivity and specificity.

Results—Sensitivity and specificity were 0.672 and 1.00, respectively. Prevalence of BLV in this herd was 0.807. Predictive value of a positive test was 1.00, and predictive value of a negative test was 0.421. The percentage of cows correctly classified by PCR assay was 73.5%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A positive PCR assay result provided definitive evidence that a cow was infected with BLV. Sensitivity and negative predictive value for PCR assay were low. Consequently, PCR assay alone is unreliable for routine detection of BLV in herds with high prevalence of the disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:983–985)
Taurine deficiency in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy: 12 cases (1997–2001)
Authors: Fascetti Andrea J. , Reed John R. , Rogers Quinton R. , Backus Robert C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine signalment, history, clinical signs, blood and plasma taurine concentrations, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic findings, treatment, and outcome of dogs with low blood or plasma taurine concentrations and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—12 client-owned dogs with low blood or plasma taurine concentrations and DCM.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed, and clinical data were obtained.

Results—All 12 dogs were being fed a commercial dry diet containing lamb meal, rice, or both as primary ingredients. Cardiac function and plasma taurine concentration improved with treatment and taurine supplementation. Seven of the 12 dogs that were still alive at the time of the study were receiving no cardiac medications except taurine.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that consumption of certain commercial diets may be associated with low blood or plasma taurine concentrations and DCM in dogs. Taurine supplementation may result in prolonged survival times in these dogs, which is not typical for dogs with DCM. Samples should be submitted for measurement of blood and plasma taurine concentrations in dogs with DCM, and taurine supplementation is recommended while results of these analyses are pending. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;223:1137–1141)
Evaluation of cardiac function in active and hibernating grizzly bears
Authors: Nelson O. Lynne , McEwen Margaret-Mary , Robbins Charles T. , Felicetti Laura , Christensen William F.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate cardiac function parameters
in a group of active and hibernating grizzly bears.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—6 subadult grizzly bears.

Procedure—Indirect blood pressure, a 12-lead ECG,
and a routine echocardiogram were obtained in each
bear during the summer active phase and during
hibernation.

Results—All measurements of myocardial contractility
were significantly lower in all bears during hibernation,
compared with the active period. Mean rate of
circumferential left ventricular shortening, percentage
fractional shortening, and percentage left ventricular
ejection fraction were significantly lower in bears during
hibernation, compared with the active period.
Certain indices of diastolic function appeared to indicate
enhanced ventricular compliance during the
hibernation period. Mean mitral inflow ratio and isovolumic
relaxation time were greater during hibernation.
Heart rate was significantly lower for hibernating
bears, and mean cardiac index was lower but not significantly
different from cardiac index during the
active phase. Contrary to results obtained in hibernating
rodent species, cardiac index was not significantly
correlated with heart rate.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cardiac function
parameters in hibernating bears are opposite to
the chronic bradycardic effects detected in nonhibernating
species, likely because of intrinsic cardiac muscle
adaptations during hibernation. Understanding
mechanisms and responses of the myocardium during
hibernation could yield insight into mechanisms of
cardiac function regulation in various disease states in
nonhibernating species. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;223:1170–1175)
Evaluation of microchip migration in horses, donkeys, and mules
Authors: Stein Franklin J. , Geller Sue C. , Carter James C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether microchips used for identification migrate after implantation in horses, donkeys, and mules.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—53 horses, donkeys, and mules.

Procedure—Twenty horses that had had microchips implanted in the nuchal ligament at a veterinary teaching hospital from 1996 through early 2000 were included (group 1), and the poll-to-withers distance and location of the microchip were determined, measured, and recorded. Additionally, the poll-to-withers distance was measured in 16 horses, 12 donkeys, and 5 mules (group 2), and microchips were implanted in the nuchal ligament on the left side of the neck. Fortytwo to 67 days after implantation, the location of the microchip was determined, measured, and recorded.

Results—Microchips implanted in the nuchal ligament ≤ 4 years previously did not migrate. All microchips were detected with a multimode identification tag reader from the left side of the neck in the midcervical region, and microchips were located at the midpoint between the poll and withers for all 53 horses, donkeys, and mules.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Microchips implanted in the nuchal ligament ≤ 4 years earlier did not migrate in horses. Microchips may be useful for identification in horses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003; 223:1316–1319)