bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with spread of pseudorabies virus among breeding swine in quarantined herds
Authors: Duffy Sergio J. , Morrison Robert B. , Thawley David G.
Published: December 2023

Knowledge of the factors that place susceptible gilts at highest risk of pseudorabies virus (prv) infection in a quarantined herd is crucial to reduce spread of prv within the herd. Cohorts of prv seronegative gilts were monitored in 17 herds that were endemically infected with prv to determine the location of breeding females at the time of infection with prv and identify herd characteristics and management and housing factors that may influence spread of prv in the breeding section of swine herds endemically infected with prv. Blood samples were collected every 1 to 2 months for an average of 13.6 months. In addition, blood was collected from a representative sample of finishing pigs (≥ 20 weeks old) 3 times per year to determine their serologic prv status. Incidence rates and relative risks of prv infection were estimated for 4 areas of the breeding section: gestation barn, gilt pool, farrowing room, and breeding area. Overall, 28, 11, 8, and 2 females became infected with prv in each of these areas, respectively. The greater number of females infected in the gestation barns, compared with the number of females infected in other locations, is probably a consequence of being at risk for a longer period rather than of a higher incidence rate. Herd size, common housing for gilts in the gilt pool and sows, and serologic pattern of prv infection in finishing pigs were associated with the detection of spread of prv in the breeding section of the 17 herds. An implication of these findings is that attempts to control the spread of prv among females in the breeding herd must be made in all phases of production.
Greater participation by veterinarians in the reproductive management of dairy cattle
Authors: Phatak A. P. , Whitmore H. L.
Published: December 2023

A program involving greater veterinary participation in detection of estrus and artificial insemination of cattle was evaluated in a 700-cow dairy herd from January 1987 through August 1988. Previous reproductive performance was below normal. First-service pregnancy rate from artificial insemination was 42%, and mean number of nonpregnant days for the cows was 120.

Between postpartum days 55 and 62, all cows with functional corpus luteum assessed by rectal palpation were administered prostaglandin each Monday morning. Return visits were made to the herd each Thursday and Friday to observe cows and to inseminate those in estrus. On the other 5 days of the week, the owner or his employees inseminated all cows in estrus. The first-service pregnancy rate for 842 cows observed in estrus and inseminated by the veterinarian was 59%. The pregnancy rate for cows inseminated by the owner and his employees increased from 42% to 50%. The mean number of nonpregnant days for all 700 cows decreased from 120 to 98 days, resulting in approximately $46,000 of increased income for the dairyman or approximately a 4 to 1 return on investment in veterinary service.

Results indicate that veterinarians could improve herd reproductive performance and solve chronic herd breeding problems by more actively participating with their clients in estrus detection and artificial insemination programs in cattle. The program allows practicing veterinarians an opportunity to observe cows for estrous behavior, establish their own pregnancy rate data, demonstrate to owners the importance of observing primary signs of estrus, and teach expert artificial insemination techniques.
Endocrine changes associated with cystic ovarian degeneration in sows
Authors: Almond Glen W. , Richards R. Gregg
Published: December 2023

Endocrine changes in sows with ovarian cysts were determined to be comparable with those in sows in diestrus. Blood samples were collected at frequent intervals from 5 sows affected with cystic ovaries. Concentrations of serum luteinizing hormone, progesterone, estradiol-17β, and cortisol were determined by use of established radioimmunoassays. The development of ovarian cysts has been proposed to be associated with a deficiency of luteinizing hormone rather than an intrinsic ovarian abnormality. In contrast, the results of this study demonstrated that tonic and pulsatile luteinizing hormone release were not affected adversely in sows with cystic ovaries.
Evaluation of intra-abdominal vasectomy in llamas and alpacas
Authors: Bravo P. Walter , Sumar Julio
Published: December 2023

A method of intra-abdominal vasectomy (deferentectomy), using a laparoscopic technique in llamas and alpacas, was evaluated. Food was withheld from 14 animals for 24 hours before sedation and laparoscopy. The ductus deferens was located close to the bladder, and a 2- to 3-cm section of ductus deferens was resected with the aid of a pair of hook scissors. The procedure was completed in 5 to 8 minutes, and animals did not have any adverse effects. Forty-five days after vasectomy, animals were used for detecting sexually receptive females or inducing ovulation during reproductive physiologic studies. The procedure did not impair libido and had no effect on male sexual behavior for many years. The technique is simpler, safer, and faster than the traditional external approach.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods for detection of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Tonelli Quentin J.
Published: December 2023

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays have been widely used for diagnosis of FeLV and feline immunodeficiency virus (fiv) infections. Various elisa kits for FeLV are available from several manufacturers. Although these tests are configured in a variety of formats, they are all direct antigen-detection systems for the viral core protein p27. On the other hand, elisa for fiv exposure detects specific feline antibody to fiv. Basic immunoassay principles and the application of elisa technology used in FeLV and FIV elisa kits are described.
Familial incidence of hyperkalemic periodic paralysis in Quarter Horses
Authors: Naylor J. M. , Robinson J. A. , Bertone J.
Published: December 2023

The pedigrees of 17 horses with hyperkalemic paralysis were studied. All were first-, second-, or third-generation offspring of a common sire, 16 were registered Quarter Horses. Analysis indicated that it was unlikely that the concentration of hyperkalemic periodic paralysis in the offspring of this sire was attributable to chance. The familial nature of this condition should help veterinarians diagnostically. It also suggests that it is possible to reduce the incidence of this condition by breeding from non-affected lines of horses and reinforces the need for studies to determine whether the disease is genetic in origin. Although more affected horses were second-generation offspring, the proportion of horses affected was largest in the first generation and decreased progressively with each generation. This is probably because horses in the earlier generations have been observed for longer periods and thus clinical signs are more likely to have been noticed in these horses.
Comparison of anthelmintic control programs for sheep in Virginia
Authors: Zajac A. M. , Thatcher C. D. , Notter D. , Hansen J. W. , Umberger S.
Published: December 2023

Haemonchus contortus is the most serious parasitic problem encountered by sheep producers in southwestern Virginia. Four anthelmintic control programs for grazing lambs were tested. Group TR received monthly sc injections of ivermectin (200 μg/kg of body weight). Group SI received the same dose of ivermectin at 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 weeks after the start of the grazing season. Group SL was given levamisole (8 mg/kg, po) 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 weeks after the start of the grazing season, and group TA received ivermectin (200 μg/kg) 0, 8, 16, 20, and 24 weeks after the beginning of grazing. None of the 4 programs provided satisfactory control of parasites as indicated by fecal egg counts and serum pepsinogen concentrations, although group-TR lambs gained significantly more weight than lambs in groups SI and TA. Group-TA lambs developed clinical haemonchosis in early August and required additional treatment at that time. These findings suggest that reliance on anthelmintics alone may not provide the most effective and economic control of parasitic infection.
Prevalence and type of splenic diseases in cats: 455 cases (1985-1991)
Authors: Spangler W. L. , Culbertson M. R.
Published: December 2023

Retrospective data on the type and prevalence of splenic disease in cats were evaluated in a large number of feline splenic tissues (n = 455) submitted as surgical and necropsy specimens from private veterinary hospitals in California during a period of approximately 5.5 years. Primary and metastatic neoplasia accounted for 37% of all feline splenic lesions. Mastocytoma, lymphosarcoma, myeloproliferative disease, and hemangiosarcoma, in that order, accounted for the bulk of neoplasia. Submission of accessory splenic tissue from either the omentum or pancreas accounted for 4% (17/455), whereas hyperplastic nodules, hematomas, and the combination of these changes in the spleen accounted for 4% (19/455). Splenitis was found in 2% (8/455) of submissions. Thromboembolism with regional splenic infarction accounted for 1% (4/455) of splenic lesions in cats. The remaining splenic lesions each accounted for < 1% of total splenic submissions, and as such, were considered incidental and of questionable clinical importance.
Identification of surgical biopsy borders by use of India ink
Authors: Rochat M. C. , Mann F. A. , Pace L. W. , Henderson R. A.
Published: December 2023

Separation of surgical biopsy borders from artifactual borders created during trimming of biopsy specimens is necessary to avoid misinterpretation of histologic borders. Misinterpretation of a contaminated trimming border as a surgical border may lead to additional surgery and excessive removal of normal tissue. Likewise, a neoplasm may regrow locally or metastasize if a surgical border infiltrated with neoplastic cells is falsely assumed to be an artifactual trimming border. The use of India ink for distinguishing between surgical biopsy borders and artifactual borders was evaluated. Ten normal tissue specimens from 8 types of tissue (skin, small intestine, urinary bladder, bone, muscle, lung, large intestine, and uterus) were obtained from freshly euthanatized dogs. The specimens were painted with India ink and examined for adherence of the ink to the cut surface of the specimen. Adherence of the ink was observed in all specimens with the exception of the cut surface of the lung. Twenty-five biopsy specimens from dogs with clinical cases of disease were similarly painted with India ink and evaluated. Twenty-two were identified as neoplastic and 3 as inflammatory lesions. Wedges of tissue were obtained from the center of the biopsy specimens to purposely create borders that contained neoplastic tissue. These positive controls were painted with India ink to evaluate the effect of the ink on the histologic appearance of the neoplastic cells. Distortion or alteration of the cellular architecture was not observed in any of the normal specimens, specimens from dogs with clinical cases, or positive controls. The use of India ink for delineation of biopsy borders is a simple technique that presents few technical difficulties. India ink should be applied routinely to the excised borders of all excisional biopsy specimens to facilitate identification of the surgical border.
Microvascular permeability changes in ischemia/reperfusion injury in the ascending colon of horses
Authors: Henninger Dwight D. , Snyder Jack R. , Pascoe John R. , Dilling George W.
Published: December 2023

The normal microvascular permeability of the ascending colon in horses and the microvascular permeability of that segment after ischemia and reperfusion were investigated. Microvascular permeability was estimated by the ratio of lymphatic protein to plasma protein concentration (Cl/Cp) at high lymph flow rates in 8 adult horses in 2 equal groups: normal and ischemic (2-hour period). Lymphatic flow rates and lymph and plasma protein concentrations were determined. Intestinal biopsy specimens were obtained at the end of each experiment. Flow independent values were selected and compared by one-way anova, and the mean and sem of these values were determined. The mean Cl/Cp ratios for the flow independent part of each data set were as follows: normal = 0.36 ± 0.08; ischemic = 0.70 ± 0.08. These groups were significantly different (P ≤ 0.0001). Microscopic evaluation revealed mild congestion and edema in the normal group. The ischemic group had mild to moderate mucosal degeneration, with moderate to severe congestion and edema. We concluded that ischemia of the ascending colon, when followed by reperfusion, results in a significant increase in microvascular permeability.
Diskospondylitis associated with Brucella canis infection in dogs: 14 cases (1980-1991)
Authors: Kerwin Sharon C. , Lewis Daniel D. , Hribernik Thomas N. , Partington Beth , Hosgood Giselle , Eilts Bruce E.
Published: December 2023

A retrospective study of 135 dogs with diskospondylitis revealed 14 dogs with concurrent Brucella canis infection. Sexually intact male dogs and dogs in the southeastern United States appeared to be at higher risk. Results of bacteriologic culturing of blood were less likely to be positive for dogs with diskospondylitis caused by B canis infection than for dogs with diskospondylitis caused by other organisms. Follow-up evaluation of 13 of the 14 dogs revealed complete remission of clinical signs in nine, but serologic test results continued to be positive for B canis infection long after resolution of clinical abnormalities. Radiographic follow-up evaluation in 6 dogs revealed active lesions despite complete remission of clinical abnormalities.
Surface-induced hypothermia in dogs: 19 cases (1987-1989)
Authors: Moon P. F. , Ilkiw J. E.
Published: December 2023

Surface-induced hypothermia is used to protect tissues from ischemic events during surgery. In a review of 19 clinical cases in dogs, the technique was used to enable intracardiac surgery (4 dogs) and to facilitate removal of extensive thoracic or abdominal masses (15 dogs). For 16 dogs (84%), anesthesia was induced with an opioid/benzodiazepine combination and maintained with a balanced technique by use of an opioid, a neuromuscular blocking agent, and iso-flurane in oxygen. Dogs were cooled in an ice bath to a mean esophageal temperature of 27.8 ± 1.4 C. Mean anesthesia time was 4.04 ± 1.37 hours. Hypothermic-induced adverse effects, such as increased blood viscosity, increased myocardial irritability, and shivering, were managed by hemodilution, manipulation of acid-base balance, and administration of opioid and neuromuscular blocking agents. Complications requiring treatment included severe hypotension (74%), arrhythmias (47%), hypoxemia (42%), and acidemia (58%). Six dogs (32%) went into cardiac arrest and all were successfully resuscitated once the surgical procedure was completed. One dog was euthanatized during surgery, another died after surgery, and the 17 remaining dogs (90%) were discharged from the hospital to their owners. The technique appears beneficial in selected cases to decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with the risk of prolonged ischemia and life-threatening hemorrhage.
Economic analysis of a mastitis monitoring and control program in four dairy herds
Authors: Morin Dawn E. , Petersen Gordon C. , Whitmore Howard L. , Hungerford Laura L. , Hinton Royce A.
Published: December 2023

Mastitis monitoring and control programs were instituted in 4 Illinois dairy herds for 12 months. Two herds had high mean monthly bulk tank somatic cell counts (> 490,000 cells/ml) and 2 had low mean monthly bulk tank somatic cell counts (< 260,000 cells/ml) at the start of the study. The mastitis monitoring and control programs included mandatory mastitis control measures, as well as individualized control measures that were based on results of bacterial cultures of milk, bulk tank milk analyses, milking machine and milking procedure evaluations, and environmental inspections in each herd. Changes in mastitis prevalence, clinical mastitis incidence, milk yield, and individual cow somatic cell counts were evaluated, and an economic analysis was performed for each herd.

Mastitis-associated economic losses during the study period ranged from $161.79 to $344.16/lactating cow in the 4 herds. Gross economic benefits resulted when mastitis-associated losses were lower with the monitoring and control program than predicted without it. There were no gross economic benefits in the herds with low somatic cell counts, and, when the marginal costs of the programs were added, there were large net losses ($84.06 and $113.01/lactating cow) in those herds. Gross economic benefits resulted in both of the herds with high somatic cell counts. However, in 1 of the herds, the marginal costs of the program exceeded the benefits, resulting in a net loss of $12.96/lactating cow. The net loss was attributed primarily to poor producer compliance with recommendations. There was a net economic benefit of $19.11/lactating cow in the other herd with high somatic cell counts, in which producer compliance was better. The study demonstrates the need for more research to identify mastitis control measures that are both effective and economical in herds with low somatic cell counts.
Effects of oral administration of a calcium-containing gel on serum calcium concentration in postparturient dairy cows
Authors: Queen W. Gregory , Miller Gay Y. , Masterson Margaret A.
Published: December 2023

Various nutrious nutritional-supplement gels are being marketed for use in veterinary medicine. This study was designed to determine whether serum calcium, phosphorous, or magnesium concentrations were different between cows given a gel containing calcium chloride as its active ingredient (treated) and cows given inert carrier gel (control). The study revealed a significant (P < 0.01) increase in serum total calcium concentration within 5 minutes of administration of a calcium gel given to cows within 1 hour of parturition. Serum total calcium concentration had returned to baseline value by 24 hours after calcium gel administration. Serum inorganic phosphorus concentration also increased significantly (P < 0.05) after treatment. Significant changes in serum magnesium concentrations were not detected.
Comparison of intradermal allergy test and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in dogs with allergic skin disease
Authors: Codner Ellen C. , Lessard Pierre
Published: December 2023

Results of an elisa for allergen-specific IgE were compared with results of an intradermal (id) allergy test in 5 clinically normal dogs and 36 dogs referred for evaluation of allergic dermatitis. The elisa had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 0%. Agreement between id allergy test and elisa for positive and negative results ranged from 44 to 56% for pollens, 39% for house dust/dust mite, 22% for fungi, and 54% for fleas. Agreement between id allergy test and elisa scores for all pollens was only 10% greater than that expected by chance alone, and a κ value of 0.17 confirmed poor test agreement. The greatest disparity in results was seen in dogs with negative id and positive elisa results.

Median elisa absorbance values for 15 groups of related allergens were compared in 4 groups of dogs: clinically normal dogs, atopic dogs with positive id reactivity, suspected atopic dogs with negative id reactivity, and flea-allergic dogs. There was no significant difference in median elisa values between clinically normal dogs and flea-allergic dogs, or clinically normal dogs and atopic dogs for any allergen group. Although the elisa absorbance value for fungal antigens was significantly higher in dogs suspected of being atopic than in clinically normal dogs, there was no significant difference in median elisa values for any other allergen group.

These findings suggested the disparity between id allergy test and elisa results was primarily attributable to false-positive elisa reactions rather than greater elisa sensitivity. The cause for the high false-positive rate in the elisa was unknown, but did not appear to be induced by flea allergy. The elisa should not be used to confirm a diagnosis of atopy or to identify allergens for hyposensitization, because of poor test specificity. However, a negative elisa result may reliably rule out a diagnosis of atopy.
Cholelithiasis in dogs: 29 cases (1980-1990)
Authors: Kirpensteijn Jolle , Fingland Roger B. , Ulrich Tim , Sikkema Deborah A. , Allen Sheila W.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 29 dogs with cholelithiasis were reviewed. Aged female small-breed dogs were overrepresented. Mean age was 9.5 years, and mean weight was 12 kg. Vomiting, anorexia, weakness, polyuria/polydipsia, weight loss, icterus, fever, and signs of abdominal pain were the most common clinical signs. Leukocytosis, neutrophilia with left shift, monocytosis, high activity of serum hepatic enzymes, hypoalbuminemia, and high concentrations of serum total bilirubin were common. Radiopaque choleliths were evident on abdominal radiography of 13 of 27 dogs. Microbial culturing of bile isolated organisms in 15 of 20 dogs. Gram-negative bacteria were most common.

Surgery was performed in 22 dogs. Four dogs were treated medically, and 3 dogs were euthanatized without treatment. Surgical treatment consisted of cholecystectomy in 11 dogs, choledochotomy in 5 dogs, cholecystotomy in 4 dogs, and cholecystojejunostomy in 1 dog. Sphincter of Oddiotomy was performed in 1 dog. Five dogs had concurrent generalized peritonitis attributable to bile. Multiple choleliths were detected in most of the dogs. Choleliths were located in the gallbladder in 20 dogs and in the bile ducts in 14 dogs. The most common abnormalities of the gallbladder, identified histologically, were chronic cholecystitis, mucosal hyperplasia, and pericholecystic inflammation. The most common abnormalities of the liver were cholestasis, hepatocellular degeneration, and periportal fibrosis. Survival rate of dogs that underwent cholecystectomy tended to be higher (86%) than that of dogs treated via cholecystotomy (50%) or cholecystectomy in combination with choledochotomy (33%). Dogs that underwent medical treatment, abdominal exploratory, cholecystojenunostomy, choledochotomy, and sphincter of Oddiotomy died or were euthanatized because of redevelopment of clinical signs associated with cholelithiasis. None of the 9 surviving dogs had return of signs associated with cholelithiasis. Cholecystectomy in combination with antibiotic administration appeared to be the treatment associated with the lowest morbidity and mortality in dogs with clinically evident cholelithiasis.
Prevalence of nephrotoxicosis associated with a four-hour saline solution diuresis protocol for the administration of cisplatin to dogs with naturally developing neoplasms
Authors: Ogilvie Gregory K. , Straw Rodney C. , Jameson Vicki J. , Walters Lisa M. , Lafferty Mary , Powers Barbara E. , Henkel Susan E. , Withrow Stephen J.
Published: December 2023

We evaluated the development of nephrotoxicosis in 64 dogs with malignant neoplasia given cisplatin during 4-hour saline solution diuresis. Cisplatin (70 mg/m2 of body surface area, iv, q 21 d) was given to 8 dogs once, 22 dogs twice, 9 dogs 3 times, and 25 dogs 4 times. For each treatment, cisplatin was given over a 20-minute period after saline (0.9% NaCl) solution was administered iv for 3 hours at a rate of 25 ml/kg/h. After cisplatin infusion, saline solution diuresis was continued at the same rate for 1 hour. Before each treatment with cisplatin, the dogs were evaluated by conducting a physical examination, cbc, and analysis of serum urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations, and in most cases, serum phosphorus concentration and urine specific gravity were determined. Exogenous creatinine clearance also was evaluated in 8 dogs prior to 1 (n = 8), 2 (n = 8), 3 (n = 6), and 4 (n = 4) treatments. Five (7.8%) of 64 dogs developed clinically evident renal disease after two (n = 3) and three (n = 2) doses of cisplatin. Two of the 5 dogs had preexisting diseases of the urinary tract prior to the start of treatment. Survival time in dogs that developed renal disease (median, 114 days; range, 26 to 273 days) was similar to that of all dogs in this study (median, 145 days; range, 5 to 586 days), with 30 dogs still alive at the conclusion of the study. Three of the 5 dogs that developed renal disease were alive at the conclusion of the study, 1 died of tumor-related causes, and another died as a direct result of nephrotoxicosis. There was a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in median neutrophil counts and a significant (P < 0.05) increase in median creatinine concentrations prior to the third and fourth treatments, compared with pretreatment values. Therefore, the 4-hour saline solution diuresis protocol used in this study to administer up to 4 doses of cisplatin appeared to be effective in preventing clinically apparent nephrotoxicosis in dogs with tumors and without preexisting urinary tract disease.
Comparison of french-pezzar and Malecot catheters for percutaneously placed gastrostomy tubes in cats
Authors: DeBowes Linda J. , Coyne Bonnie , Layton Candace E.
Published: December 2023

Gastrostomy tubes were placed percutaneously in 28 cats by use of an endoscope. French-pezzar mushroom-tip catheters were used for 14 of the procedures, and Malecot catheters were used for the remainder. Inner flanges were not used in gastrostomy tube placement. The french-pezzar catheters remained in place and functional for 2 weeks in all 14 cats. The Malecot catheters remained in place and functional for 2 weeks in 4 cats. Malecot catheters pulled out in 10 cats, and 2 of these cats died or were euthanatized because of complications. The gastrostomy tubes were removed in 18 cats 2 weeks after placement by applying gentle, steady traction and removing the entire catheter or by cutting the tube flush with the skin and leaving the catheter tip in the cat's stomach. Neither method of removal was associated with problems.
Effects of administration of recombinant bovine somatotropin on the responses of lactating and nonlactating cows to heat stress
Authors: Cole J. A. , Hansen P. J.
Published: December 2023

An experiment was performed to determine whether bovine somatotropin (bst) increases the severity of responses to heat stress and whether this effect depends on an increase in milk yield. Lactating and nonlactating cows received daily sc injections of bst (25 mg) or sodium phosphate solution for 12 days. Rectal temperatures and respiration patterns were not affected by BST when cows were maintained in a thermoneutral environment on day 9 of treatment. On day 12, cows were heat stressed by exposure to direct solar radiation. Rectal temperature, respiration rate, and the frequency of open-mouth panting increased as a result of heat stress. For lactating and nonlactating cows, those treated with bst had higher rectal temperatures and rate of open-mouth panting than cows treated with sodium phosphate solution. Administration of bst can increase the severity of responses of cows to heat stress without changing milk yield.
Urolithiasis in Dalmatians: 275 cases (1981-1990)
Authors: Case Lisa C. , Ling Gerald V. , Ruby Annette L. , Johnson Deedra L. , Franti Charles E. , Stevens Fredric
Published: December 2023

From July 1, 1981 to December 31, 1990 the Urinary Stone Analysis Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California received 292 urinary calculi from 275 Dalmatians (14 females, 14 episodes; 261 males, 278 episodes). The mean age of dogs at the time of the first episode of calculus formation was 4.5 years for males and 5.5 years for females. Bacteria were isolated from 22 of 49 calculi (45%). The bacteria were gram-positive with 2 exceptions; coagulase-positive staphylococci accounted for 62.5% of the isolates. Polarized light microscopy was used to determine the mineral content of the calculi. One hundred ninety three calculi were 100% urate; 78 calculi contained ≥ 50% urate in 1 or more layers and were classified as mixed urate calculi; 7 calculi contained < 50% urate in all layers; and 14 calculi contained no urate. The secondary minerals most commonly encountered in mixed urate calculi were struvite (77%, 60 of 78 calculi), and oxalate (17%, 13 of 78 calculi). There were 65 struvite-containing calculi, 16 oxalate-containing calculi, 7 apatite-containing calculi, 5 silica-containing calculi, and 1 calculus specimen was composed of 100% cystine. The risk of forming urate-containing calculi was high in Dalmatians, whereas the risk of forming calculi containing other minerals was consistently lower in Dalmatians than in other breeds. X-ray diffraction and high pressure liquid chromatography were performed on all calculi from dogs known to have been given allopurinol (n = 19). One hundred percent of these calculi were found to contain xanthine or other compounds related to administration of allopurinol (eg, hypoxanthine, allopurinol, or oxypurinol).
Complications after ultrasound-guided biopsy of abdominal structures in dogs and cats: 246 cases (1984-1991)
Authors: Léveillé Renée , Partington Beth Paugh , Biller David S. , Miyabayashi Takayoshi
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 195 dogs and 51 cats that underwent a total of 233 ultrasound-guided biopsies and 70 ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspirations were reviewed for diagnostic quality of the specimens obtained and for procedural complications. Three animals (1.2%) had major postbiopsy complications. All 233 animals that underwent ultrasound-guided biopsy were examined ultrasonographically immediately after biopsy. Thirteen (5.6%) were determined to have minor localized hemorrhage. Of the 233 biopsy specimens, 226 (97%) were considered to be of adequate quality for histologic interpretation. Results of cytologic examination of 59 (84.3%) of 70 specimens obtained by fine-needle aspiration correlated with the final diagnosis made during surgical exploration or at necropsy.
Comparison of pentobarbital alone and pentobarbital in combination with lidocaine for euthanasia of dogs
Authors: Evans A. Thomas , Broadstone Richard , Stapleton James , Hooks Toni M. , Johnston Sharon Marie , McNeil Judith R.
Published: December 2023

Pentobarbital alone, pentobarbital plus 1% lidocaine solution, pentobarbital plus 2% lidocaine solution, and pentobarbital plus 3% lidocaine solution were each used to euthanatize 6 dogs. For each dog, time between the beginning of injection of the euthanasia solution and each of the following events was recorded: collapse, onset of apnea, flat-line electrocardiogram, flat-line electroencephalogram, loss of palpable heartbeat, and loss of palpable pulse. Any signs of pain or discomfort were also recorded.

There were no significant differences among groups except for time to flat-line electrocardiogram. Dogs euthanatized with pentobarbital alone had significantly longer times than did dogs euthanatized with pentobarbital in combination with any of the lidocaine concentrations. We concluded that pentobarbital in combination with lidocaine was a reasonable alternative to pentobarbital alone when euthanatizing dogs.
Effect of an orally administered sulfonylurea, glipizide, for treatment of diabetes mellitus in cats
Authors: Nelson R. W. , Feldman E. C. , Ford S. L. , Roemer O. P.
Published: December 2023

An orally administered sulfonylurea drug, glipizide, was evaluated for treatment of diabetes mellitus. Confirmation of diabetes was based on evidence of appropriate clinical signs, persistent hyperglycemia, and glucosuria. Glipizide (5 mg, PO, q 12 h) was administered to each cat. Sixteen cats were fed a commercial high-fiber diet and 4 cats were fed a commercial low-fiber diet. Insulin was not administered to any cat during the study. Each cat was evaluated 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after initiation of treatment.

Three clinical responses to glipizide treatment were identified. Mean preprandial blood glucose concentration and mean blood glucose concentration during an 8-hour postprandial period decreased to < 200 mg/dl in 5 of 20 (25%) cats. In these 5 cats, glucosuria was no longer detected and clinical signs resolved by the 4-week reevaluation. Euglycemia was maintained after discontinuing glipizide treatment in 2 of these 5 cats. Glycemic control has been maintained in 2 of 5 of the responding cats for 5 and 7 months of glipizide treatment. One of 5 of the responding cats developed insulin-requiring diabetes mellitus after 6 months of glipizide treatment. Seven of 20 (35%) cats failed to respond to treatment. Mean preprandial blood glucose concentration and mean blood glucose concentration during an 8-hour postprandial period did not change from pretreatment values after 2 ± 1 months; glucosuria persisted and clinical signs progressively worsened. Insulin treatment was required to establish glycemic control in these 7 cats. Eight of 20 (40%) cats partially responded to glipizide treatment. Clinical signs and abnormalities identified on physical examination improved, and mean preprandial blood glucose concentration and mean blood glucose concentration during an 8-hour postprandial period decreased by 146 ± 105 and 110 ± 50 mg/dl, respectively, at the 12 week reevaluation, compared with pretreatment values, but blood glucose concentrations remained > 200 mg/dl and glucosuria persisted. These cats were treated with glipizide for a mean of 12 months (range, 7 to 21 months).

Adverse reactions to treatment included vomiting shortly after administration of glipizide (3 cats), hypoglycemia (3 cats), and increased serum hepatic enzyme activities (3 cats). Retrospective analysis of information obtained from the 20 cats at the time of entry into the study failed to identify any consistent factor that could be used to predict the cats’ response to glipizide treatment. Results of the study indicated that glipizide may be a viable alternative to insulin for treatment of diabetes mellitus in some cats.
Irradiation of nonlymphoproliferative neoplasms of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses in 16 cats
Authors: Théon A. P. , Peaston A. E. , Madewell B. R. , Dungworth D. L.
Published: December 2023

Sixteen cats with malignant tumors (10 carcinomas, 6 sarcomas) of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses were treated with curative intent by radiotherapy. Clinical staging was based on radiographic findings, using the tumor, node, metastasis classification system of the World Health Organization. Irradiation was done with a telecobalt-60 unit (13 cats) and an orthovoltage unit (3 cats). Fourteen cats were treated with irradiation alone, and 2 cats had incomplete surgical resections prior to radiotherapy. Treatment dose was 48 Gy (minimum tumor dose), administered by use of 4 Gy per fraction on a Monday/Wednesday/Friday basis over 4 weeks. Survival times after treatment ranged from 1 to 36 months. The 1- and 2-year overall survival rates were 44.3 and 16.6%, respectively. Histologic type and clinical stage did not have prognostic value. Most acute radiation reactions were mild and self-limiting. Chronic ocular complications were seen in 3 cats. These treatment responses compared favorably with those previously described in dogs and cats with intranasal neoplasms treated with teletherapy and provided a perspective for comparison of new treatment methods.
Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of the performance of various radiographic protocols when screening dogs for pulmonary metastases
Authors: Barthez Paul Y. , Hornof William J. , Théon Alain P. , Craychee Thérèse J. , Morgan Joe P.
Published: December 2023

Five radiographic protocols for detecting pulmonary metastases in dogs were compared by analyzing receiver operating characteristic curves for the protocols. Protocols compared were a right lateral view only, a left lateral view only, right lateral and dorso- ventral views, both lateral views, and all 3 views. Three radiologists used each of the protocols to evaluate 99 sets of thoracic radiographs. Fifty-two sets of radiographs were from dogs confirmed histologically to have pulmonary metastases and 47 were from dogs proven at necropsy to be free of pulmonary metastases. Results of the 5 protocols were not statistically different. We concluded that a third view is not necessary when routinely screening dogs with cancer for pulmonary metastases and that the standard 2-view thoracic examination should be adequate. However, in individual cases, a third view may be the determining factor in establishing a radiographic diagnosis and should be obtained if any suspicious areas are seen.
Serologic response of pups to the low-passage, modified-live canine parvovirus-2 component in a combination vaccine
Authors: O’Brien Susan E.
Published: December 2023

Thirty pups from a general pet population were vaccinated for canine parvovirus-2 (cpv-2), using a low-passage, modified-live cpv-2 in a combination vaccine, every 3 weeks until the pups were between 11 and 18 weeks old. Canine parvovirus-2 antibody titers were measured by means of serum neutralization (sn) immediately before each vaccination and ≥ 2 weeks after final vaccination. Thirteen pups that were initially seronegative (sn titer < 2 for cpv-2) developed protective titers (sn titer ≥ 16) after 1 to 3 doses of the vaccine, administered when the pups were between 8 and 17 weeks old; 11 of the 13 developed protective titers after the first dose. Seventeen pups were initially seropositive for cpv-2 (sn titer ≥ 2). Of these, 8 initially had titers < 16 and 3 others had titers that fell to < 16 during the study. Nine (82%) of these 11 pups developed protective titers. Results indicated that pups at high risk for cpv-2 disease should be vaccinated until 18 to 20 weeks old, even when the low-passage vaccine is used. Pups at lower risk of cpv-2 disease should be vaccinated periodically until 16 weeks old.
Performance analysis after prosthetic laryngoplasty and bilateral ventriculectomy for laryngeal hemiplegia in horses: 70 cases (1986-1991)
Authors: Russell Alice Pooley , Slone Donnie E.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 70 horses diagnosed with left laryngeal hemiplegia that were treated by use of prosthetic laryngoplasty combined with bilateral ventriculectomy were examined. Degree of arytenoid cartilage abduction that had resulted from the prosthesis had been graded before the horse was discharged from the hospital. Follow-up information through owner/trainer questioning was acquired for 55 horses. Information concerning the type and frequency of complications, if any, was recorded, along with a determination of owner/trainer satisfaction regarding surgical results. Race records were acquired for 42 horses and were used to aid in evaluation of postoperative performance. After surgery, Thoroughbred racehorses had a much lower success rate (48%; 19 of 40 horses), determined from owner/trainer questioning, than did all breeds in the study that were not intended for racing (93%; 14 of 15 horses). Younger Thoroughbred racehorses had a better success rate (70%; 14/20) than did those ≥ 3 years old (25%; 5/20). Degree of arytenoid abduction had little effect on outcome, except that horses with maximal abduction (grade 5) of the arytenoid cartilage had a higher prevalence of complications and poor correction. The 2 most prevalent complications were exercise intolerance (42%; 23 of 55 horses) and continuing noise when exercising (47%; 26 of 55 horses).
Your legal rights before, during, and after an inspection by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Authors: Richard Kerry M.
Published: December 2023

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was developed to ensure that every American has a safe and healthy work environment. An important component of OSHA's mission is to develop and promulgate minimum standards for workplace safety, and we recently published, JAVMA fan 15, 1994 through Mar 1, 1994, a series of articles giving practical suggestions for complying with current OSHA standards. However, an equally important part of OSHA's mission is inspection of American workplaces to determine whether those workplaces are complying with safety standards. Few veterinarians know what to expect during an OSHA inspection, nor understand what their rights and responsibilities are. In this article, Ms. Richard, an attorney who specializes in management labor and employment law, outlines what to expect and what to do if your practice is inspected by the OSHA.

Please remember that the information in this article is based on the author's best interpretation of current law. However, the law can change, and the accuracy of any interpretation of the law can be challenged by the OSHA. Therefore, information in this article is intended to be only a guideline and is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as, legal advice. Veterinarians are advised to consult with their own attorneys for advice on specific matters. Finally, this information is based on current federal OSHA guidelines. Veterinary practices located in one of the 25 states and territories with OSHA-approved state plans may have to comply with slightly different guidelines.—Kurt J. Matushek, Assistant Editor.
Prevalence of cystine and urate uroliths in Bulldogs and urate uroliths in Dalmatians
Authors: Bartges Joseph W. , Osborne Carl A. , Lulich Jody P. , Unger Lisa K. , Koehler Lori A. , Bird Kathy A. , Clinton Chris W. , Davenport Marion P.
Published: December 2023

Data were evaluated from all dogs admitted to the University of Minnesota Veterinary Teaching Hospital (UMVTH) between June 1, 1981 and Dec 31, 1991. During this period, uroliths were retrieved and analyzed from 452 of 37,574 dogs admitted. The odds that uroliths from Bulldogs were composed of cystine were 32.3 times greater than for other breeds evaluated. The odds that a Bulldog admitted was affected with cystine uroliths were 154.1 times greater than for other breeds. Cystine uroliths were retrieved only from male Bulldogs. The odds that uroliths from Bulldogs were composed of urate were 7.9 times greater than for other breeds. The odds that a Bulldog admitted was affected with urate uroliths were 43.0 times greater than for other breeds. Male Bulldogs were 14.3 times more likely to be affected with urate uroliths than were females. The odds that uroliths from Dalmatians were composed of urate were 228.9 times greater than for other breeds. The odds that a Dalmatian admitted was affected with urate uroliths were 122.4 times greater than for other breeds. Male Dalmatians were 16.4 times more likely to be affected with urate uroliths than were females.

Data also were evaluated from files of canine uroliths submitted to the Minnesota Urolith Center for quantitative mineral analysis between June 1, 1981 and Dec 31, 1991. During this period, 94 of 11,188 uroliths analyzed were obtained from Bulldogs and 387 were obtained from Dalmatians. The odds that uroliths retrieved from Bulldogs were composed of cystine were 40.7 times greater than for other breeds. Cystine uroliths were retrieved only from male Bulldogs. The odds that uroliths retrieved from Bulldogs were composed of urate were 16.4 times greater than for other breeds. Although 88.6% of urate uroliths were retrieved from male Bulldogs, the odds ratios for males were not significantly different than for females. The odds that uroliths retrieved from Dalmatians were composed of urate were 162.4 times greater than for other breeds. Although 93.0% of urate uroliths were retrieved from male Dalmatians, the odds ratio for males was not significantly different than for females.
Epidemiologic findings from an outbreak of cysticercosis in feedlot cattle
Authors: Yoder Darwin R. , Ebel Eric D. , Hancock Dale D. , Combs Bret A.
Published: December 2023

An outbreak of cysticercosis in a south-central Idaho custom feedlot reached a peak prevalence of 11% in January 1993 and extended from October 1992 through March 1993. Of 5,164 cattle slaughtered from this feedlot during the outbreak, 457 (9%) were cysticercosis infected. Total discounts on the infected cattle at slaughter cost the feedlot $154,400.

Most evidence was suggestive of feed-borne transmission of Taenia saginata eggs to the cattle in the feedlot. By use of logistic regression analysis of feedlot records, significant (P = 0.004) association of cysticercosis prevalence at slaughter with days on feed was revealed. Similarly, a decline in cysticercosis prevalence was significantly (P < 0.001) related to the number of days cattle were fed a ration not containing potato byproduct. Although sources other than potato byproduct were systematically evaluated during the investigation, findings suggested that potato byproduct fed in this feedlot was contaminated with T saginata eggs.
Mitotane treatment of 32 dogs with cortisol-secreting adrenocortical neoplasms
Authors: Kintzer Peter P. , Peterson Mark E.
Published: December 2023

Thirty-two dogs with hyperadrenocorticism caused by cortisol-secreting adrenocortical neoplasia were treated with mitotane at an initial daily induction dosage of 27.5 to 75.0 mg/kg of body weight (mean, 46.3 mg/kg) for 10 to 14 days. All dogs received daily maintenance glucocorticoid supplementation during the induction period. After 2 weeks, the ACTH-stimulated serum cortisol concentration had decreased to within or below the reference range for baseline cortisol concentration in 18 (56.3%) of the 32 dogs; the remaining 14 (43.7%) still responded to ACTH administration with serum cortisol concentrations above the reference range. In these 14 dogs, mitotane was continued at a higher daily dosage (mean, 60.7 mg/kg) for an additional 1 to 9 weeks. Serum cortisol concentration subsequently fell within or below the reference range for baseline cortisol concentration in all but 1 dog. In 30 of the 32 dogs, mitotane was continued at an initial mean maintenance dosage of 101.6 mg/kg/wk, divided into 2 to 5 doses. Twenty-two dogs received prednisone daily (0.2 mg/kg) throughout the maintenance period. One or more relapses occurred in 19 (63%) of the 30 dogs. In dogs with relapse, the mean maintenance mitotane dosage was increased from 98.1 mg/kg/wk to a high of 212.4 mg/kg/wk. After a mean maintenance treatment time of 13.2 months, final mean maintenance dosage required in the 30 dogs ranged from 35.3 to 1,273 mg/kg/wk. Adverse effects were seen in 19 (59.4%) of the 32 dogs as a result of a drug toxicosis associated with high-dosage administration of mitotane, low serum cortisol concentration, or both. Complete glucocorticoid and mineralcorticoid deficiency (Addison's disease) developed in 3 dogs after mitotane treatment. Mean survival time of the 32 dogs was 16.4 months (range, 20 days to 5.1 years). Six dogs died or were euthanatized as a result of progression of adrenal carcinoma and 4 because of complications associated with hyperadrenocorticism. Results of this study revealed that mitotane is an effective and acceptable alternative to surgery in most dogs with cortisol-secreting adrenocortical tumors. Of the 32 dogs, 66% were considered to have a good to excellent response to treatment. In general, the response in dogs without evidence of metastatic disease was better than in those dogs with known metastatic disease.