bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiologic evidence for a causal relation between vaccination and fibrosarcoma tumorigenesis in cats
Authors: Kass Philip H. , Barnes William G. , Spangler W. L. , Chomel Bruno B. , Culbertson M. R.
Published: December 2023

Within the past 2 years, a putative causal relationship has been reported between vaccination against rabies and the development of fibrosarcomas at injection sites in cats. A retrospective study was undertaken, involving 345 cats with fibrosarcomas diagnosed between January 1991 and May 1992, to assess the causal hypothesis. Cats with fibrosarcomas developing at body locations where vaccines are typically administered (n = 185) were compared with controls (n = 160) having fibrosarcomas at locations not typically used for vaccination. In cats receiving FeLV vaccination within 2 years of tumorigenesis, the time between vaccination and tumor development was significantly (P = 0.005) shorter for tumors developing at sites where vaccines are typically administered than for tumors at other sites. Univariate analysis, adjusted for age, revealed associations between FeLV vaccination (odds ratio [or] = 2.82; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.54 to 5.15), rabies vaccination at the cervical/interscapular region (or = 2.09; 95% CI = 1.01 to 4.31), and rabies vaccination at the femoral region (or = 1.83; 95% CI = 0.65 to 5.10) with fibrosarcoma development at the vaccination site within 1 year of vaccination. Multivariate analysis, adjusted for age and other vaccines, also revealed increased risks after FeLV (or = 5.49; 95% CI = 1.98 to 15.24) and rabies (or = 1.99; 95% CI = 0.72 to 5.54) vaccination. The risk of cats developing fibrosarcoma from a single vaccination in the cervical/interscapular region was almost 50% higher than in cats not receiving vaccines at that site; the risk in cats with 2 vaccinations was approximately 127% higher and the risk with 3 or 4 vaccines was approximately 175% higher. However, the frequency of fibrosarcomas in the population is low (estimated at 20/100,000 cats). In approximately half of the cats in our study, fibrosarcomas were at sites where vaccines conventionally are given, and of those cats, approximately half (depending on vaccine) had previously received a vaccine at the tumor site. Although we believe that veterinarians should not alter their vaccination protocols, precautions in vaccine administration (administering different vaccines at varied sites) and further informed consent (presenting current information in a proper benefit/risk context) appear to be advisable.
Nonsurgical removal of urocystoliths in dogs and cats by voiding urohydropropulsion
Authors: Lulich Jody P. , Osborne Carl A. , Carlson Melanie , Unger Lisa K. , Samelson Laura L. , Koehler Lori A. , Bird Kathy A.
Published: December 2023

A technique called voiding urohydropropulsion has been developed that facilitates nonsurgical removal of urocystoliths. Voiding urohydropropulsion was performed in 11 dogs and 10 cats with urocystoliths. Urocystoliths were completely removed from 15 of 21 animals (5 female dogs, 3 male dogs, 5 female cats, and 1 male cat). The number of uroliths removed from any animal varied between 1 and 983. The mean time required to complete voiding urohydropropulsion in the 15 animals from which all uroliths were completely removed was 22 minutes. In 6 animals (2 female dogs, 3 female cats, and 1 male cat), not all urocystoliths were removed. Visible hematuria was induced in all animals as a consequence of voiding urohydropropulsion. In dogs, visible hematuria resolved within 4 hours. Dysuria was not induced by this technique in dogs. In many cats, visible hematuria and dysuria persisted for 1 to 2 days. One male cat developed urethral obstruction after we failed to remove a urolith from the bladder. The urolith was returned to the urinary bladder, and subsequently removed by cystotomy. Voiding urohydropropulsion is a simple and effective method that should be considered for removal of small urocystoliths from dogs and cats before cystotomy is performed.
Ultrasonographic abnormalities in the eyes of dogs with cataracts: 147 cases (1986–1992)
Authors: van der Woerdt Alexandra , Wilkie David A. , Myer C. Wendy
Published: December 2023

Records of 147 dogs with cataracts and that had an ultrasonographic examination of their eyes were reviewed. Ultrasonography was performed, using a real-time mechanical sector scanner (7.5 or 10.0 MHz transducer), after topical anesthesia of the cornea. Vitreous degeneration was diagnosed in 23% of the eyes examined. Retinal detachment was detected in 11% of all eyes, but was detected in 4% of eyes with immature cataracts, 6.5% of eyes with mature cataracts, and 19% of eyes with hypermature cataracts. In 66% of the eyes, the cataract was the only ultrasonographic abnormality found. Vitreous degeneration and retinal detachment were most often observed in eyes with a hypermature cataract, and were uncommon in eyes with an immature cataract. We concluded that ultrasonographic examination can detect abnormalities of the posterior segment when opacity of the anterior segment precludes complete ophthalmoscopic examination and that it is a quick and easy procedure for screening dogs for retinal detachment prior to cataract surgery.
Clinical efficacy of milbemycin oxime in the treatment of generalized demodicosis in adult dogs
Authors: Miller William H. , Scott Danny W. , Wellington Jocelyn R. , Panić Rada
Published: December 2023

Thirty adult dogs with chronic generalized demodicosis were treated with oral administration of milbemycin oxime (0.52 to 3.8 mg/kg oj body weight, q 24 h). Results oj skin scrapings were used to determine whether administration oj milbemycin should be continued or discontinued. Dogs that were free of clinical signs of demodicosis 12 months after administration of milbemycin was discontinued were considered cured. Sixteen dogs were cured, 5 dogs were never cleared of mites, and 9 dogs were cleared of mites, but relapsed after administration of milbemycin was discontinued. Adverse effects of milbemycin were rare and transient.
Evaluation of lidocaine, xylazine, and a combination of lidocaine and xylazine for epidural analgesia in llamas
Authors: Grubb Tamara L. , Riebold Thomas W. , Huber Michael J.
Published: December 2023

Epidural analgesia was achieved at weekly intervals in 6 adults llamas by injection of 2% lidocaine, 10% xylazine, and a combination of 2% lidocaine/10% xylazine at the sacrococcygeal junction. Analgesia was determined by lack of response to pin prick or hemostat pressure in the perineal area. Ataxia could not be accurately evaluated because of the llamas’ tendency to assume sternal recumbency when restrained. Time to onset of analgesia was not different between lidocaine (3.16 ± 0.31 minutes) and lidocaine/xylazine (3.50 ± 0.56 minutes), but results for both groups were different than those for xylazine (20.67 ± 3.37 minutes). Duration of analgesia was different among all groups (lidocaine, 71.0 ± 6.15 minutes; xylazine, 186.83 ± 14.86 minutes; lidocaine/xylazine, 325.83 ± 29.39 minutes). Mild sedation developed in 4 llamas given xylazine alone. Lidocaine/xylazine caused mild sedation in 2 llamas and moderate sedation in 1 llama. Significant changes in pulse or respiratory rates were not observed among drugs, but changes were observed over time with all drugs. As has been reported in other species, lidocaine/xylazine provided rapid onset and prolonged duration of analgesia.
Postoperative complications and prognostic indicators in dogs and cats with septic peritonitis: 23 cases (1989–1992)
Authors: King Lesley G.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 21 dogs and 2 cats treated for septic peritonitis were reviewed. Animals were between 1 and 12 years old, (mean, 6.5 years) and weighed between 6 and 51.4 kg (mean, 22.7 kg). Overall, 13 animals survived and were discharged from the hospital. Immediately after surgical correction of the underlying cause of peritonitis, most animals were tachycardic (mean heart rate, 148 beats/min; range, 80 to 204 beats/min), and many were hypotensive (mean arterial pressure, 84.4 mm of Hg; range, 44 to 156 mm of Hg). Hypotension was attributed to sepsis and hypovolemia secondary to extensive loss of fluid into the peritoneal cavity. Survivors did not differ from nonsurvivors with regard to mean arterial pressure immediately after surgery, and in most animals, hypotension could be corrected by iv administration of fluids. Three animals died after failing to respond to fluid treatment, despite concurrent administration of inotropic or pressor agents. Mean rate for crystalloid fluid administration was 12.8 ml/kg of body weight/h (range, 5 to 23.5 ml/kg/h) during the first 24 hours after surgery. Six of 23 animals had low urine output for a short time after surgery, but urine output increased when fluids were administered. Hypoalbuminemia developed in all animals (mean serum albumin concentration, 1.17 g/dl; range, 0.6 to 2.3 g/dl), and peripheral edema developed in 13. Neither lowest mean serum albumin concentration nor fluid administration rate was significantly different between animals that developed peripheral edema and those that did not. Fluid administration rates were significantly higher in nonsurvivors (15 ml/kg/h; range, 5.5 to 23.5 ml/kg/h) than in survivors (11 ml/kg/h; range, 5 to 17.5 ml/kg/h). Thirteen animals had evidence of pulmonary alveolar consolidation, and 9 had pleural effusions; however, fluid administration rates were not significantly different between animals that did and those that did not develop clinical respiratory disease. Eleven animals had pancreatitis at the time of surgery, or developed pancreatitis subsequently. Four animals developed disseminated intravascular coagulation, and only 1 survived. Indicators of a poor prognosis included refractory hypotension, cardiovascular collapse, and development of respiratory disease or disseminated intravascular coagulation. Development of pancreatitis, high serum concentrations of hepatic enzymes, high or low wbc count, hypo- or hyperglycemia, signs of abdominal pain, and abdominal effusion were not associated with outcome.
Survival of pigeon red blood cells after transfusion into selected raptors
Authors: Sandmeier Peter , Stauber Erik H. , Wardrop K. Jane , Washizuka Aki
Published: December 2023

Survival time of 51Cr-labeled pigeon rbc transfused into 5 raptors was determined. Mean ± sd estimated rbc survival time was 0.51 ± 0.19 days. This was considerably shorter than estimated survival time of autologous rbc in a Red-tailed Hawk (estimated survival, 35.1 days) and in a pigeon (estimated survival, 26.8 days). Estimated survival time after homologous transfusion of rbc from one pigeon to another was 7.1 days. Although single heterologous blood transfusions have been recommended as a safe and efficacious means of whole blood replacement in birds, results of this study suggest that heterologous rbc transfused from pigeons to selected raptor species are rapidly destroyed.
Characterization of naturally developing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in 16 German Shepherd Dogs
Authors: Willard M. D. , Simpson R. B. , Fossum T. W. , Cohen N. D. , Delles E. K. , Kolp D. L. , Carey D. P. , Reinhart G. A.
Published: December 2023

Sixteen German Shepherd Dogs were found, via quantitative microbial culture of intestinal fluid samples, to have small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (ibo) over an 11-month period. All dogs were deficient in serum IgA. Consistent clinical signs suggestive of an alimentary tract disorder were not observed. Serum cobalamin determinations were not helpful in detecting ibo. Serum folate concentrations had variable sensitivity and specificity for detecting dogs from which we could culture ≥ 1 × 105 bacteria/ml from intestinal fluid samples in the nonfed state. Histologic and intestinal mucosal cytologic examinations were not useful in detecting ibo. Substantial within-dog and between-dog variation was found in the numbers and species of bacteria in the intestines. The difficulty in diagnosing ibo, the variability in organisms found in individual dogs on repeated sampling, the likelihood that intestinal fluid microbial cultures failed to diagnose ibo in some dogs, and the potential of ibo to be clinically inapparent were the most important findings in this study.
Results of using histologic examination and acid-fast staining to confirm a diagnosis of swine mycobacteriosis made on the basis of gross examination
Authors: Margolis Marcia J. , Hutchinson Lawrence J. , Kephart Kenneth B. , Hattel Arthur L. , Whitlock Robert H. , Payeur Janet B.
Published: December 2023

Overall, 74% of the tissue specimens that meat inspectors at a large Pennsylvania packing plant identified as lesions of swine mycobacteriosis yielded Mycobacterium avium on bacteriologie culture. Histopathologic lesions compatible with mycobacteriosis were identified in 83% of the specimens; only 12% of the specimens had acid-fast staining organisms.
Causes of and farm management factors associated with disease and death in foals
Authors: Cohen N. D.
Published: December 2023

A prospective study was conducted to describe the causes of and farm management factors associated with disease and death in a population of foals in Texas. Data from 2,468 foals at 167 farms were provided by veterinarians for all 12 months during 1991. Among 2,468 foals, 116 deaths were reported (4.7%). Pneumonia was the most commonly reported cause of death, followed by septicemia. When considered as a group, musculoskeletal disorders (traumatic, infectious, or deforming problems) represented the most common cause of all reported deaths. Daily risk of death was greatest during the first 7 days of life, and decreased with age. Risk and frequency of causes of death varied by age. Crude incident morbidity during the year was 27.4% (677/2,468). Respiratory disease was the most common cause of incident disease in the study population, followed by diarrhea. Risk of disease was greatest among ≤ 7 days old, and decreased with age. Crude rate of incident of diarrhea was significantly lower among farms where foals were born on pasture, compared with that at farms where foals were born in stalls. The practice of assessing passive immunity was significantly associated with decreased morbidity from septicemia and pneumonia.
Clinical and radiographic results of total hip arthroplasty in dogs: 96 cases (1986–1992)
Authors: Massat Bruno J. , Vasseur Philip B.
Published: December 2023

Results of total hip arthroplasty in 84 dogs (96 hips) were evaluated. Eight (9.5%) of the 84 dogs developed 1 or more complications after total hip arthroplasty. Complications resolved or were corrected in 4 of the dogs; all 4 ultimately achieved good or excellent hip function. Complications necessitated removal of the prosthesis in the other 4 dogs; 3 ultimately achieved fair hip junction and 1 had only poor hip junction. Therefore, after resolution of complications, 96% of the hips had good or excellent function. Force plate analysis was performed on 6 dogs with excellent hip function; peak vertical force for the limb that had been operated on was greater than or equal to peak vertical force for the contralateral limb. Radiographically, a radiolucent zone was visible around the acetabular component in 89% of the hips and around the femoral component in 26%. The radiolucent zone around the acetabular and femoral components widened in 14% (6 of 43) and 27% (3 of 11), respectively, of the hips with adequate radiographic follow-up. Aseptic loosening of the acetabular component developed in 3 (3%) of 96 hips; one was successfully revised. Aseptic loosening of the femoral component was not apparent in any of the dogs in this study. Other complications included femoral fracture (n = 3), neurapraxia (3), luxation (1), and unexplained lameness that required implant removal (1). None of the dogs had evidence of wound infection.
Surgical treatment for epiglottic entrapment in horses: 51 cases (1981–1992)
Authors: Lumsden Jonathan M. , Stick John A. , Caron John P. , Nickels Frank A.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 51 horses with epiglottic entrapment were reviewed, and the outcome after surgical treatment was evaluated by use of results from a survey of owners and from race records. Horses with epiglottic entrapment and no additional problem (uncomplicated) of the nares, nasal passages, pharynx, or larynx (upper airway) that were treated by transoral axial division (group 1) or resection via laryngotomy (group 2), and horses with epiglottic entrapment complicated by an additional upper airway abnormality (group 3) were compared. The cost of treatment, duration of hospitalization, time to first race start after surgery, and complication rate were significantly (P < 0.05) less in horses in group 1, compared with those in horses of group 2. Owner survey indicated that a significantly greater percentage (82%) of horses in group 1 had a successful outcome after transoral axial division, compared with that (27%) of horses in group 2. Analysis of race records indicated that performance was similar between horses in groups 1 and 2, and significantly more horses with an additional upper airway lesion (group 3) failed to return to racing than did horses with uncomplicated epiglottic entrapment (groups 1 and 2). Transoral axial division of the aryepiglottic fold is recommended as an appropriate treatment for uncomplicated epiglottic entrapment. Resection via laryngotomy should be reserved for treatment of epiglottic entrapment associated with excessively thick and scarred aryepiglottic folds and for intermittent epiglottic entrapment in horses for which surgical correction is deemed appropriate. Horses with epiglottic entrapment complicated by previous aryepiglottic fold surgery or another upper airway abnormality, particularly epiglottic deformity or dorsal displacement of the soft palate, should receive a less favorable prognosis for return to athletic performance.
Effect of topical pilocarpine treatment on tear production in dogs
Authors: Smith Eric M. , Buyukmihci Nedim C. , Farver Thomas B.
Published: December 2023

Tear production, evaluated every 2 hours from 8 am to 8 pm by use of the Schirmer tear test over a 3-day period, was not significantly different between left and right eyes in 12 dogs. However, a significant diurnal pattern was evident. Tear production was lowest at midday and highest in the late afternoon/early evening. After pilocarpine HCl ophthalmic solution (0.25, 1.0, or 2.0%; 1 drop) was administered topically to the left eye of each dog at 7 am on days 4, 6, and 8, respectively, tear production was determined for both eyes every 2 hours from 8 am to 8 pm on the day of treatment. Analysis of tear values between eyes and between each eye’s treatment and pretreatment values did not reveal significant change for the treated eye, but tear production was significantly less in the untreated eye, compared with its pretreatment values and with values in the treated eye. On day 10 (48 hours after the last treatment), tear production values were not significantly different between left and right eyes, and for both eyes, were not significantly different from the mean pretreatment tear production values. Topical application of 0.25, 1.0, or 2.0% pilocarpine HCl consistently caused blepharospasm, conjunctival hyperemia, and miosis of the treated eye, without significant increase in tear production. We concluded that topical application of pilocarpine, at the concentrations used, may have little value in treating disorders involving reduced tear production.
Serum immunoglobulin G concentration in goat kids fed colostrum or a colostrum substitute
Authors: Constant Steven B. , LeBlanc Michelle Mary , Klapstein Elisabeth F. , Beebe Donald E. , Leneau Harry M. , Nunier Collette J.
Published: December 2023

To determine the suitability of a new colostrum substitute derived from goat serum and to determine the amount of colostral IgG needed to achieve serum IgG concentration > 800 mg/dl, twin kids from 14 does were fed colostrum or a colostrum substitute. The volume of colostrum or colostrum substitute fed was calculated so that half the kids in each group received IgG at a low dosage (1.5 g/kg of body weight) and the other half received IgG at a high dosage (3 g/kg). Kids were bottle fed the colostrum or colostrum substitute and then fed pooled goat's milk until 18 hours old, at which time they were allowed to nurse their dams. Does were milked manually every 2 hours after parturition until specific gravity of mammary secretions was < 1.02, the specific gravity of goat's milk. Serum IgG concentration of each kid was determined by means of single radial immunodiffusion at birth and 12, 18, and 24 hours and 7, 21, and 42 days after birth. Kids were weighed at each blood collection and monitored for illness daily.

None of the kids had measurable serum IgG concentrations at birth. Mean serum IgG concentration was significantly higher in kids fed colostrum than in kids fed colostrum substitute at all times, except days 7 and 42 (P < 0.05). By 24 hours after birth, serum IgG concentration was > 800 mg/dl in all kids fed colostrum, in 4 of 7 kids fed the substitute at the higher dosage, and in 2 of 7 kids fed the substitute at the lower dosage. Serum IgG concentration decreased in all kids during the first 21 days after birth, but was increased by 42 days. Mean body weight did not differ between groups; none of the kids became ill. Kids willingly suckled the colostrum and colostrum substitute, but the substitute had to be diluted with water because of its thick consistency.
Articular fractures of the distal portion of the humerus in Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs: Six cases (1988-1992)
Authors: Payne John T. , Braun William F. , Anderson David E. , Tomlinson James L.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 6 Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs with articular fractures of the distal portion of the humerus were reviewed. Evaluation of the medical records did not reveal a sex predilection. All fractures were associated with minor traumatic episodes in young pigs. Of 6 fractures involving the humeral condyle, 4 involved the medial portion, 1 involved the lateral portion, and 1 was a Y-shaped fracture. Five of the pigs underwent surgical repair of the fracture, and all 5 did not have signs of lameness at follow-up evaluations (mean, 11 months). Of 4 pigs that had follow-up radiography, all had evidence of mild to moderate degenerative joint disease. Articular fractures of the distal portion of the humerus should be considered as a differential diagnosis in all Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs with forelimb lameness, even if the trauma sustained appeared mild. Surgical repair in Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs is straightforward, and excellent clinical results can be expected.
Magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosis of pituitary macrotumors in dogs
Authors: Duesberg Cynthia A. , Feldman Edward C. , Nelson Richard W. , Bertoy Elizabeth H. , Dublin Arthur B. , Reid Michael H.
Published: December 2023

The value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the evaluation of dogs with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism (pdh) and cns signs was assessed. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was performed in 13 dogs with pdh and neurologic signs. The diagnosis of pdh was made on the basis of results of adrenocortical function tests and abdominal ultrasonography, in conjunction with appropriate history, clinical signs, and clinicopathologic alterations. Eight dogs had been treated with the adrenocorticolytic agent, mitotane, for 1 to 30 months before the development of neurologic signs.

Prior to mri, each dog had progressive neurologic signs that could not be attributed to hypocortisolism or mitotane toxicosis. The neurologic signs most frequently detected were disorientation and ataxia. Mean age of dogs at the time neurologic signs developed was 9.5 years. Sex predilection was not detected; however, most were large-breed dogs, with 11 of the 13 dogs weighing more than 20 kg.

A large mass in the pituitary gland, suprasellar region, or both was easily identified on the magnetic resonance images of each dog. The masses ranged from 8 to 24 mm in size. Expansion of tumors into the suprasellar region and compression of structures adjacent to the pituitary gland were readily detected by MRI. Contrast enhancement did not improve tumor identification, but did enable better delineation between tumor and surrounding structures.

After the diagnosis of a macrotumor was made by MRI, radiotherapy was initiated in 9 dogs and was successfully completed in 6. Three dogs had a relapse of neurologic signs 8, 11, and 26 months after radiotherapy was completed. Three dogs are alive 8, 15, and 32 months after radiotherapy. Postmortem examinations performed on 7 dogs confirmed the diagnosis of pituitary macroadenomas. In 4 dogs, postmortem examination was performed within 1 month of MRI, providing a means to substantiate results. Magnetic resonance imaging provided accurate information on tumor size and the extent of tumor expansion into the surrounding structures.
Factors affecting serum selenium and vitamin E concentrations in dairy cows
Authors: Miller Gay Y. , Bartlett Paul C. , Erskine Ronald J. , Smith K. Larry
Published: December 2023

Supplementation of selenium and vitamin E to enhance disease resistance in dairy cattle has become common, particularly to prevent periparturient reproductive disorders and mastitis. To establish reference values for serum vitamin E and selenium concentrations in postparturient dairy cattle and to determine whether serum concentrations of these micronutrients varied with season and stage of lactation, cows from a stratified random sample of 50 herds were studied for 1 year. Blood samples were collected from each of the 50 study herds twice, from the 10 most recently parturient cows or from 10% of the herd, whichever was greatest. Mean concentration of vitamin E and selenium was 2.55 μg/ml and 78.12 ng/ml, respectively. Vitamin E concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05) higher during the summer and fall than during the winter and spring. Selenium concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05) lower during the summer and fall than during the winter and spring. Herd, season of blood sample collection, and time since parturition were significant (P < 0.02) in explaining variation in vitamin E and selenium concentrations.
Prevalence of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in swine in Illinois in 1992
Authors: Weigel R. M. , Dubey J. P. , Siegel A. M. , Hoefling D. , Reynolds D. , Herr L. , Kitron U. D. , Shen S. K. , Thulliez P. , Fayer R. , Todd K. S.
Published: December 2023

A serologic survey that tested for antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii was conducted, using the modified direct agglutination test, on 6,965 serum samples collected from swine in 179 herds in Illinois in 1992. In breeding swine, results for 1,057 of 5,080 (20.8%) sera tested were positive. In growing/finishing swine, results for 59 of 1,885 (3.1%) sera tested were positive, which was substantially lower than the seroprevalence rate estimated in a serosurvey of pigs from abattoirs in Illinois in 1983 and 1984. Data in the survey reported here were summarized for herds having at least 28 samples/herd. Among all herds, the median, mean, and maximum seroprevalence rates were 6.7, 16.1, and 96.8%, respectively, for breeding swine in 172 herds, and 0.0, 2.8, and 20.0%, respectively, for growing/finishing pigs in 44 herds. Among the 172 herds with breeding swine, 61 (35.5%) had no seropositive pigs. Among the 44 herds with growing/finishing swine, 28 (63.6%) had no seropositive pigs. A logistic regression model was used to estimate that the cumulative risk of T gondii infection for swine in herds containing seropositive pigs was 9.0% by 6 months of age for a herd that had the median seroprevalence rate. In contrast, for pigs in herds in the upper quartile of seroprevalence rates, risk of infection by 6 months of age was estimated to be greater than 20%. Analysis of these data would suggest that overall prevalence of T gondii infection in pigs from Illinois is low; nevertheless, there is a small proportion of farms for which the rate of T gondii infection in swine is moderately high.
Efficacy of griseofulvin and itraconazole in the treatment of experimentally induced dermatophytosis in cats
Authors: Moriello Karen A. , DeBoer Douglas J.
Published: December 2023

To evaluate the efficacy of itraconazole and griseofulvin in the treatment of Microsporum canis infection, 15 juvenile cats were infected by topical application of 105 live M canis macroconidia to the skin of the lateral part of the trunk, and an occlusive bandage was applied. After 3 weeks, cats were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups (n = 5 each): cats in the first group received griseofulvin (50 mg/kg of body weight, po, q 24 h); the second group received itraconazole (10 mg/kg, po, q 24 h); and the third group (control) received an equivalent volume of vehicle (without drug, po, q 24 h). Treatment continued for 100 days, or until mycologic cure (lack of dermatophyte isolation on 3 consecutive weekly fungal cultures) was achieved.

Infection in all cats peaked in severity at week 6 after inoculation, then gradually resolved over the next 11 weeks. The itraconazole-treated group was the first to achieve a cure, after receiving 56 days of treatment, followed by the griseofulvin-treated group at 70 days. None of the cats in the control group reached mycologic cure after 100 days of treatment. As early as day 14 of treatment, the griseofulvin- and itraconazole-treated groups had significantly (P < 0.05) lower mean infection scores, compared with those in the control group. Significant differences in the mean infection scores between the itraconazole- and griseofulvin-treated groups were not found. This study revealed that griseofulvin and itraconazole, each as sole treatment, significantly altered the course of infection, compared with that in a vehicle-treated control group. Both drugs were effective in the treatment of experimentally induced dermatophytosis in cats.
Antibacterial susceptibility patterns for microbial isolates associated with infectious keratitis in horses: 63 cases (1986-1994)
Authors: Moore Cecil P. , Collins B. Keith , Fales William H.
Published: December 2023

Seventy-three aerobic bacterial isolates were cultured from 64 eyes of 63 horses with infectious keratitis. Forty-two (58%) of the organisms isolated initially were gram-positive (g+, 10 genera) and 31 (42%) were gram-negative (g-, 5 genera). After local antimicrobial treatment, repeat cultures from samples obtained from 15 eyes of hospitalized horses yielded 21 secondary bacterial isolates. Staphylococci spp and Streptococci spp were the most common g(+) isolates and accounted for 79% of g(+) organisms isolated initially. Antibiograms revealed ticarcillin to be the most efficacious antibiotic tested on g(+) organisms, with 28 of 30 (93%) being susceptible. Of commercially available topical ophthalmic antibiotics tested on g(+) organisms, erythromycin was the most efficacious, with 32 of 35 (91%) isolates being susceptible. Pseudomonas spp, Escherichia coli, and Acinetobacter spp accounted for 68% of g(-) organisms isolated initially. Gentamicin, tobramycin, polymyxin B, and neomycin were highly effective in vitro against initial g(-) isolates. Chloramphenicol was ineffective against g(+) and g(-) organisms isolated initially. A significantly (P < 0.05) higher frequency of g(-) organisms was noticed on repeat cultures after intensive topical antimicrobial treatments as compared to organisms isolated at initial examination. Pseudomonas organisms isolated from second cultures were resistant to gentamicin, but susceptible to ciprofloxacin. Overall, secondary g(-) isolates were more susceptible to ciprofloxacin, neomycin, tobramycin, or amikacin than to gentamicin. Fungi were isolated in 24 of 63 (38%) horses in the study. Twenty-five filamentous fungi and 2 yeasts were identified from 24 eyes. Aspergillus spp was the predominant fungi; it was detected in 17 of 22 (77%) eyes in which filamentous fungi were identified.
Gunshot injuries in horses: 22 cases (1971-1993)
Authors: Vatistas Nicholas James , Meagher Dennis Michael , Gillis Carol Louise , Neves John Walter
Published: December 2023

Twenty-two horses were examined because of firearm injuries. Nine had been shot with .22- caliber bullets, 2 with BB pellets, 6 with buckshot, 1 with a, 35-caliber bullet, and 1 with an airgun pellet. Injury was confined to the skin or skeletal muscles in 8 horses. Of these, 7 returned to their previous use. In 14 horses, injuries to additional structures were incurred, including the sinus and pharynx (n = 2), mandible (n = 1), tooth (n = 1), aorta (n = 1), eye (n = 3), tibia (n = 1), gastrointestinal tract (n = 3), joint (n = 1), and trachea (n = 1). The 3 horses that had only eye injuries were discharged to their owners. Of the other 11 horses with injuries to deep/vital structures, 3 died, 5 were euthanatized, and 3 survived.
Evaluation of a hypertonic sodium chloride/dextran solution for treatment of traumatic shock in dogs
Authors: Schertel Eric R. , Allen David A. , Muir William W. , Hansen Bernard D.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To compare the efficacy of 7% NaCI solution (hypertonic saline) in 6% dextran 70 solution (HSD) with that of lactated Ringer's solution (LRS) for treatment of dogs in traumatic shock.

Design—

Prospective, randomized, clinical study.

Animals—

16 traumatized adult dogs with clinical signs of shock.

Procedure—

Physical, hemodynamic, blood gas, and clinical chemistry measurements were performed prior to treatment. Initial treatment consisted of HSD (n = 8) or LRS (n = 8) administered as a bolus (5 ml/kg of body weight, IV) over a 3-minute period, followed by administration of additional LRS and other treatments to restore hemodynamic and physical criteria to within reference limits. Measurements were repeated for 3 hours after initial treatment. The volumes of LRS and HSD administered were recorded hourly. Degree of injury was scored by using a trauma severity index.

Results—

Dogs responded similarly to the treatments, and all but 3 dogs survived to be discharged. The amount of fluid administered to dogs in the HSD group over the final 2 hours of the study was significantly less than that administered to the dogs in the LRS group. Serum sodium concentration and osmolality of the dogs in the HSD group were not significantly greater than those values in the LRS group. Bradyarrhythmias were observed in 2 dogs in the HSD group.

Clinical Implications—

Hypertonic sodium chloride/ dextran solution is safe and effective for resuscitating dogs in traumatic shock. Seven percent NaCI in 6% dextran 70 may reduce the need for isotonic fluids in the hours after initial resuscitation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:366-370)
Medical treatment of horses with ileal impactions: 10 cases (1990–1994)
Authors: Hanson R. Reid , Schumacher John , Humburg Jay , Dunkerley Suzann Carson
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate clinical and laboratory findings for horses treated medically for ileal impactions.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

10 horses with primary ileal impaction that were treated successfully with medical treatment alone.

Procedure

Medical records were reviewed for all horses with naturally developing ileal impaction seen at our hospital between 1990 and 1994.

Results

Transrectal palpation revealed an impaction in the midabdominal area in all horses. Generalized distention of the small intestine was evident in 6 horses, whereas 4 horses were examined early in the course of the condition and did not have intestinal distention. Treatment consisted of intravenous administration of a balanced electrolyte solution, nasogastric intubation and siphonage, and administration of analgesics. Mineral oil was administered after gastric reflux had ceased. Mean time for resolution of ileal impaction was 11.7 hours.

Clinical Implications

Medical treatment may be a viable alternative for horses that cannot have surgery, provided persistent signs of severe pain or progressive gaseous distention of the small intestine are not features of the condition. Improvement of cardiovascular status, reduction in signs of abdominal pain, decrease in distention of loops of small intestine during repeated transrectal examination, softening of the impaction, and decreases in amounts of gastric reflux were indicative of a response to medical treatment. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:898–900)
Sensitivity and specificity analysis for somatic cell count (SCC) used to predict bacteriologically positive subclinical mastitis at calving in a dairy herd with low SCC
Authors: Kirk John H. , Berry Stephen L. , Reynolds James P. , Maas John P. , Ahmadi Abbas
Published: December 2023

Objective

Validate, by sensitivity and specificity analyses, use of somatic cell count (SCC) to predict bacteriologically positive subclinical mastitis in a California dairy herd with low SCC.

Design

Study of monthly dairy herd improvement SCC obtained from the immediate preceding lactation and individual cow composite milk sample microbiologic isolates collected at calving.

Animals

515 California dairy cows with SCC and culture data.

Procedure

Somatic cell count sensitivity and specificity analyses with combinations of SCC parameter and at various thresholds were done, using the bacterial isolates as the standard.

Results

Combination of SCC threshold and SCC parameters could not be developed that had sufficient sensitivity and specificity to be a useful predictor of cows that would calve with subclinical mastitis.

Clinical Implication

Under the conditions at this particular dairy, SCC could not be used as a basis of prediction of cows that would calve with bacteriologically positive subclinical mastitis or require selective nonlactating-cow antibiotic treatment. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:1054–1057)
Postexposure rabies prophylaxis and preexposure rabies vaccination failure in domestic animals
Authors: Clark Keith A. , Wilson Pamela J.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To determine the effectiveness of postexposure rabies prophylaxis (PEX) recommendations, as mandated by the state of Texas, and to investigate PEX and preexposure rabies vaccination failures.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

1,345 unvaccinated domestic animals that had received PEX and 6 animals that had had preexposure rabies vaccination failure.

Procedure

Zoonotic incident case report forms from 1979 through 1994 were reviewed for information about unvaccinated domestic animals that received PEX after exposure to a rabid animal, according to state protocol; the reports were also reviewed for information about preexposure rabies vaccination failures. From 1979 through 1987, the PEX protocol was to immediately vaccinate the animal against rabies, isolate it for 6 months, and administer a booster vaccination 1 month prior to release from isolation. From 1988 through 1994, the protocol was to immediately vaccinate the animal against rabies, isolate it for 90 days, and give booster vaccinations during the third and eighth weeks of the isolation period.

Results

From 1979 through 1987, 713 animals received PEX; 2 failures were recorded. From 1988 through 1994, 632 animals received PEX; 3 failures were recorded. From 1991 through 1994, 6 preexposure rabies vaccination failures were recorded.

Clinical Implications

An effective PEX schedule for domestic animals includes immediate rabies vaccination, with a minimum of 1 booster vaccination, and 90 day's strict isolation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:1827-1830)
Associations between subclinical paratuberculosis and milk production, milk components, and somatic cell counts in dairy herds
Authors: Nordlund Kenneth V. , Goodger William J. , Pelletier Joseph , Collins Michael T.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine associations between subclinical Mycobacterium paratuberculosis infection and milk production, milk components, and somatic cell counts of dairy cattle.

Design

Cross-sectional epidemiologic survey.

Animals

23 dairy herds in Wisconsin containing 1,653 adult cows were studied. The herds had above average milk production and a history of bovine paratuberculosis in the herd within the previous 12 months.

Procedure

All adult cows in the herds were tested for paratuberculosis by use of an absorbed ELISA. Milk yield, fat, protein, and somatic cell count data were retrieved electronically from Dairy Herd Improvement Association records.

Results

147 ELISA-positive and 1,506 ELISA-negative cows were identified. ELISA-positive cows had a mature-equivalent milk production of 376 kg (829 lb)/lactation less than that for ELISA-negative herdmates. Significant difference was not found in lactation average percentages of fat and protein, or somatic cell count linear score. When comparing ELISA-positive and -negative cow's current mature equivalent milk with all previous lactations, significant difference was found only from the immediate-preceding lactation. When this difference was examined by parity group, significant difference was confined to cows in the second lactation.

Clinical Implications

Subclinical paratuberculosis infections, as determined by ELISA, are associated with a 4% reduction in milk yield and add to the already substantial costs of clinical M paratuberculosis infection in the dairy industry. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:1872-1876)
Hormonal indicators of pregnancy in llamas and alpacas
Authors: Bravo P. Walter , Stewart Dennis R. , Lasley Bill L. , Fowler Murray E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine concentrations of estrone sulfate in serum, estrone sulfate in urine, relaxin in serum, and progesterone in serum in pregnant llamas and alpacas and to assess the potential of these hormones as pregnancy indicators.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

19 parous pregnant camelids (8 llamas and 11 alpacas).

Procedure

Estrone sulfate concentrations (in serum and in urine) and progesterone concentrations (in serum) were determined by enzyme immunoassay. Relaxin concentrations (in serum) were measured by radioimmunoassay. Serum and urine samples were collected daily for the first 30 days after breeding and, thereafter, once weekly until parturition.

Results

Estrone sulfate concentrations (in serum and in urine) peaked twice during pregnancy. The first took place 21 days after breeding and the second during the last month of pregnancy. Relaxin concentrations increased at 3 months of gestation to > 20 ng/ml, decreased at 5 months to 5 ng/ml, then increased from 8 months of pregnancy until parturition. Progesterone concentrations were detectable 4 days after breeding and were maintained > 2 ng/ml throughout pregnancy.

Clinical Implications

The first increase in estrone sulfate concentration over basal values may indicate early interaction between mother and embryo, whereas the second increase may reflect fetal viability. Use of estrone sulfate concentration to diagnose pregnancy in llamas and alpacas is highly dependent on time of sampling. Relaxin concentration in serum is a superior indicator of pregnancy after the second month in the llama and alpaca because its existence is suggestive of interaction between mother and fetus, and concentrations are greater than basal values for a long period of pregnancy. Progesterone is not a direct product of the embryo or fetus and only indirectly confirms a diagnosis of pregnancy. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:2027-2030)
Responses of dogs with food allergies to single-ingredient dietary provocation
Authors: Jeffers James G. , Meyer Evelyn K. , Sosis Ellen J.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To characterize specific food ingredients causing allergic reactions in dogs and to assess cross-reactivity between proteins derived from a single animal source or from different plant products.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

25 dogs with histories and cutaneous signs consistent with food-allergic dermatitis.

Procedure

Dogs were fed a food-elimination diet until resolution of clinical signs and then challenged with their original diet. A diagnosis of food allergy was made if there was complete return of pruritus within 14 days of challenge exposure. After diagnosis, dogs were fed the food-elimination diet until signs related to dietary challenge abated. The dogs then were fed beef, chicken, chicken eggs, cows' milk, wheat, soy, and corn in single-ingredient provocation trials for 1 week. Any cutaneous reactions to these food ingredients were recorded by their owners.

Results

Beef and soy most often caused adverse cutaneous reactions, although all ingredients induced clinical signs in at least 1 dog. Mean number of allergens per dog was 2.4, with 80% reacting to 1 or 2 proteins and 64 % reacting to 2 or more of the proteins tested. A significant difference was found between dogs reacting to beef versus cows' milk and between dogs reacting to soy versus wheat; thus, the hypothesis of cross-reactivity to ingredients derived from a single animal source or to different plant products was not supported. Similar differences between chicken meat and eggs were not identified.

Clinical Implications

Long-term management of dogs with food allergies is facilitated by identification of the most commonly encountered food allergens. Because cross-reactivity cannot be verified, each protein source should be included separately in food-provocation trials. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:608-11)
Economics of feeding pasteurized colostrum and pasteurized waste milk to dairy calves
Authors: Jamaluddin Aziz A. , Carpenter Tim E. , Hird David W. , Thurmond Mark C.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To estimate the marginal contribution of pasteurization of waste milk and colostrum to gross margin per calf at weaning and to estimate the minimum number of cattle on a dairy farm for pasteurization to be profitable.

Design

Randomized, controlled, clinical trial.

Animals

300 Holstein calves.

Procedure

The performance of calves fed pasteurized colostrum and waste milk was compared with the performance of calves fed nonpasteurized colostrum and waste milk. Costs, revenues, and gross margins for the 2 groups were compared.

Results

Calves fed pasteurized colostrum and waste milk were worth an extra $8.13 in gross margin/calf, compared with calves fed nonpasteurized colostrum and waste milk. The minimum number of cattle for which feeding pasteurized colostrum and waste milk was calculated to be economically feasible was 315 calves/d (1,260-cow dairy farm).

Clinical Implications

An economic benefit was associated with feeding pasteurized colostrum and waste milk. Additional benefits that may accrue include higher mean weight gain and lower mortality rate of calves as well as calves that have fewer days in which they are affected with diarrhea and pneumonia (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:751–756)
Evaluation of a survey of the diplomates of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine on use of analgesic agents in animals used in biomedical research
Authors: Hubbell John A. E. , Muir William W.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the analgesic agents administered to animals frequently used in biomedical research.

Design

Telephone survey.

Sample Population

Diplomates of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine.

Procedure

200 of 429 active diplomates listed in the 1993 directory of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine were selected at random for telephone interviews. Diplomates were asked to identify the species that they cared for and the dosages, dosing intervals, and routes of administration for analgesic agents.

Results

90 of 200 (45%) diplomates completed the survey. Twenty-two analgesic agents were identified for use in 472 applications in 16 species. Opioid analgesics were the most frequently selected agents, with buprenorphine hydrochloride and butorphanol being most frequently used. Intramuscular and subcutaneous routes of administration were used most frequently.

Clinical Implications

Among diplomates of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine, opioids are the most frequently selected agents used to induce analgesia in animals used in biomedical research. Dosages and dosing intervals used vary widely among animals of various species as well as for animals in each species. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996,209: 918-921)