bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of risk factors for the spread of low pathogenicity H7N2 avian influenza virus among commercial poultry farms
Authors: McQuiston Jennifer H. , Garber Lindsey P. , Porter-Spalding Barbara A. , Hahn John W. , Pierson F. William , Wainwright Sherrilyn H. , Senne Dennis A. , Brignole Thomas J. , Akey Bruce L. , Holt Thomas J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify risk factors associated with the spread of low pathogenicity H7N2 avian influenza (AI) virus among commercial poultry farms in western Virginia during an outbreak in 2002.

Design—Case-control study.

Procedure—Questionnaires were used to collect information about farm characteristics, biosecurity measures, and husbandry practices on 151 infected premises (128 turkey and 23 chicken farms) and 199 noninfected premises (167 turkey and 32 chicken farms).

Results—The most significant risk factor for AI infection was disposal of dead birds by rendering (odds ratio [OR], 7.3). In addition, age ≥ 10 weeks (OR for birds aged 10 to 19 weeks, 4.9; OR for birds aged ≥ 20 weeks, 4.3) was a significant risk factor regardless of poultry species involved. Other significant risk factors included use of nonfamily caretakers and the presence of mammalian wildlife on the farm. Factors that were not significantly associated with infection included use of various routine biosecurity measures, food and litter sources, types of domestic animals on the premises, and presence of wild birds on the premises.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that an important factor contributing to rapid early spread of AI virus infection among commercial poultry farms during this outbreak was disposal of dead birds via rendering off-farm. Because of the highly infectious nature of AI virus and the devastating economic impact of outbreaks, poultry farmers should consider carcass disposal techniques that do not require offfarm movement, such as burial, composting, or incineration. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:767–772)
Incidence of and predisposing factors for nonunion of fractures involving the appendicular skeleton in cats: 18 cases (1998–2002)
Authors: Nolte Dawn M. , Fusco Jason V. , Peterson Mark E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify the most common sites of and possible predisposing factors for nonunions in cats with fractures of the appendicular skeleton.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—344 cats treated for fractures between 1998 and 2002, 18 of which developed nonunions.

Procedures—Information collected from the medical records included signalment; type of trauma; fracture location, orientation, and type; degrees of displacement and comminution; treatment; and outcome.

Results—The tibia and proximal portion of the ulna were identified as the most common sites for nonunions. Factors significantly associated with development of a nonunion included age, body weight, affected bone, fracture type, degree of comminution, and fixation type, with older cats, heavier cats, cats with fractures of the tibia or proximal portion of the ulna, cats with open fractures, cats with comminuted fractures, and cats with fractures stabilized with a type II external skeletal fixator being significantly more likely to develop a nonunion. Eleven of the 18 cats with nonunions had a successful outcome following treatment of the nonunion.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that in cats, fractures involving the tibia and proximal portion of the ulna are more likely to develop nonunions than are fractures involving other sites but that many factors may increase the risk of nonunion. Use of excessively large and rigid type II external skeletal fixators may be associated with development of nonunions; however, type II external skeletal fixators were commonly used to stabilize fractures in sites predisposed to nonunion. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:77–82)
Primary desmitis of the palmar and plantar annular ligaments in horses: 25 cases (1990–2003)
Authors: McGhee Julie D. , White Nathaniel A. , Goodrich Laurie R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical and ultrasonographic
abnormalities in horses with primary desmitis of
the palmar or plantar annular ligament (PAL) and the
response to treatment.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—25 horses.

Procedure—Data collected from medical records
included signalment, horse use, affected limb, severity
and duration of lameness, results of diagnostic
tests performed, ultrasonographic findings, treatment,
and outcome.

Results—All horses had a prominent swelling in the
region of the affected PAL, and signs of pain were evident
during palpation of the swelling. In all horses,
the affected PAL was thicker than normal as determined
ultrasonographically. Twenty horses had hypoechoic
regions in the PAL. Four horses, including 1
horse with 3 affected limbs, were treated by means
of PAL desmoplasty, 9 were treated by means of PAL
desmotomy, and 12 were treated with rest. Follow-up
information was available for 21 horses. All 4 horses
that underwent PAL desmoplasty, 4 of 7 horses that
underwent PAL desmotomy, and 7 of 10 horses treated
with rest alone became sound.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that primary desmitis of the PAL may be a cause
of lameness in horses. Although significant differences
in outcome between horses treated with rest
alone versus PAL desmoplasty versus PAL desmotomy
were not identified, because it is less invasive,
PAL desmoplasty should be considered for treatment
of horses with PAL desmitis that do not respond to
conservative treatment and do not have any evidence
of constriction of the digital flexor tendons. (J Am Vet
Med Assoc 2005;226:83–86)
Incidence of and risk factors for adverse events associated with distemper and rabies vaccine administration in ferrets
Authors: Moore George E. , Glickman Nita W. , Ward Michael P. , Engler Kathy S. , Lewis Hugh B. , Glickman Lawrence T.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine incidence of and risk factors for adverse events associated with distemper and rabies vaccine administration in ferrets.

Design—Retrospective cohort study.

Animals—3,587 ferrets that received a rabies or distemper vaccine between January 1, 2002, and December 31, 2003.

Procedures—Electronic medical records were searched for possible vaccine-associated adverse events. Adverse events were classified by attending veterinarians as nonspecific vaccine reactions, allergic reactions, or anaphylaxis. Patient information that was collected included age, weight, sex, cumulative number of distemper and rabies vaccinations received, clinical signs, and treatment. The association between potential risk factors and occurrence of an adverse event was estimated with logistic regression.

Results—30 adverse events were recorded. The adverse event incidence rates for administration of rabies vaccine alone, distemper vaccine alone, and rabies and distemper vaccines together were 0.51%, 1.00%, and 0.85%, respectively. These rates were not significantly different. All adverse events occurred immediately following vaccine administration and most commonly consisted of vomiting and diarrhea (52%) or vomiting alone (31%). Age, sex, and body weight were not significantly associated with occurrence
of adverse events, but adverse event incidence rate increased as the cumulative number of distemper or rabies vaccinations received increased. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, only the cumulative number of distemper vaccinations received was significantly associated with the occurrence of an adverse event.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that in ferrets, the risk of vaccine-associated adverse events was primarily associated with an increase in the number of distemper vaccinations. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;226:909–912)
Red blood cell transfusions in cats: 126 cases (1999)
Authors: Klaser Debra A. , Reine Nyssa J. , Hohenhaus Ann E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the number of and reasons for RBC transfusions, incidence of acute transfusion reactions, prevalence of blood types, volume of blood administered, change in PCV, and clinical outcome in cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—126 cats that received RBC transfusions.

Procedure—Medical records of cats that received whole blood or packed RBC transfusions were reviewed for signalment, blood type, pre- and posttransfusion PCV, volume of blood product administered, clinical diagnosis and cause of anemia, clinical signs of acute transfusion reactions, and clinical outcome.

Results—Mean volume of whole blood administered IV was 17.2 mL/kg (7.8 mL/lb) versus 9.3 mL/kg (4.2 mL/lb) for packed RBCs. Ninety-four percent of cats had blood type A. Mean increase in PCV among all cats was 6%. Fifty-two percent of cats had anemia attributed to blood loss, 10% had anemia attributed to hemolysis, and 38% had anemia attributed to erythropoietic failure. Acute transfusion reactions occurred in 11 cats. Sixty percent of cats survived until discharge.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—RBC transfusions resulted in an increase in PCV in cats with all causes of anemia in this study. The rate of death was greater than in cats that did not receive transfusions, but seriousness of the underlying disease in the 2 groups may not be comparable. Death rate of cats that received transfusions was not attributable to a high rate of transfusion reactions. Results confirm that pretransfusion blood typing or crossmatching is required to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:920–923)
Indications for and outcome of positive-pressure ventilation in cats: 53 cases (1993–2002)
Authors: Lee Justine A. , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Koch Michael W. , King Lesley G.
Published: December 2005

Objective— To determine indications for and outcomes of positive-pressure ventilation (PPV) in cats, document ventilator management, and identify factors associated with outcome.

Design— Retrospective study.

Animals— 53 cats that underwent PPV.

Procedure— Information on signalment, history, concurrent diseases, clinical findings, results of venous blood gas analyses and clinicopathologic testing, treatment, ventilator settings, and outcome was retrieved from the medical records. Data for cats that survived were compared with data for cats that died or were euthanatized while undergoing PPV.

Results—PPV was initiated for management of respiratory failure (36 cats [68%]), cardiac arrest (9 [17%]), neurologic impairment (6 [11%]), and nonresponsive hypotension (2 [4%]). Eight cats (15%) survived, 19 (36%) died, and 26 (49%) were euthanatized while undergoing PPV. Cats that survived had a longer duration of ventilation than did those that died or were euthanatized and had a significantly higher incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Signalment and ventilator settings were not associated with outcome. Cats that had no clinical evidence of pulmonary disease but required PPV because of primary neurologic disease had a higher survival rate (2/6) than did cats that required PPV because of respiratory failure (5/36), cardiac arrest (1/9), or nonresponsive hypotension (0/2).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the survival rate for cats requiring PPV may be lower than reported survival rates for dogs. Death was attributable to progressive respiratory failure, nonresponsive hypotension, kidney failure, or neurologic impairment. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:924–931)
Evaluation of serum enzyme activities as predictors of passive transfer status in lambs
Authors: Britti Domenico , Massimini Genesio , Peli Angelo , Luciani Alessia , Boari Andrea
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the associations between serum IgG concentration and serum activities of γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and pseudocholinesterase for the potential use of these serum enzymes as predictors of passive transfer status in neonatal lambs.

Design—Prospective observational study.

Animals—47 Sardinian lambs from birth to 2 days old.

Procedure—Serum enzyme activities were measured by use of commercially available kits and a clinical biochemical analyzer. Serum IgG concentration was determined by single radial immunodiffusion. Associations between serum IgG concentration and the activity of each serum enzyme were established by use of regression analysis.

Results—A significant correlation was detected between serum IgG concentration and serum GGT activity in 1- and 2-day-old lambs. Minimal correlations were detected between serum IgG concentration and serum alkaline phosphatase activity in 1-dayold lambs and serum pseudocholinesterase activity in 1- and 2-day-old lambs. No significant associations were detected between serum IgG concentration and serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase. A multiple linear regression model was accurate for the estimation of the natural logarithm of serum IgG concentration as a function of the natural logarithm of serum GGT activity and of the age of lambs at the time of sampling (adjustedR2= 0.89). This model was then used to calculate the serum GGT activity equivalent to various serum IgG concentrations for 1- and 2-day-old lambs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that passive transfer status in neonatal lambs can be successfully predicted by measurement of serum GGT activity but not by measurement of the other enzymes tested. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005; 226:951–955)
Comparison of arthroscopic and radiographic abnormalities in the hip joints of juvenile dogs with hip dysplasia
Authors: Holsworth Ian G. , Schulz Kurt S. , Kass Philip H. , Scherrer William E. , Beale Brian S. , Cook James L. , Hornof William J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare radiographic and arthroscopic
abnormalities in juvenile dogs with clinically apparent
hip dysplasia.

Design—Case series.

Animals—52 dogs (70 hip joints) with clinical signs of hip
dysplasia scheduled to undergo triple pelvic osteotomy.

Procedure—A ventrodorsal radiographic projection of
the pelvis was evaluated by a radiologist unaware of
clinical and arthroscopic findings, and radiographic
osteoarthritic abnormalities were judged and scored
as absent (0), mild (1), moderate (2), or severe (3).
Arthroscopy was performed by a surgeon unaware of
clinical and radiographic findings, and arthroscopic
abnormalities were graded from 0 (normal) to 5
(exposed, eburnated subchondral bone).

Results—In 30 of the 70 (43%) hip joints, no radiographic
osteoarthritic abnormalities were seen.
Severe, full-thickness articular cartilage lesions
(grade 4) of the femoral head or acetabulum were
seen arthroscopically in 14 (20%) joints. Lesions ≥
grade 2 were seen in 60 (86%) joints. Partial tearing
of the ligament of the femoral head was present
in 57 (81%) joints, and complete rupture was
seen in 5 (7%). Radiographic abnormalities were
seen in 13 of the 14 (93%; 95% confidence interval,
66% to 99.8%) joints with grade 4 arthroscopic
abnormalities but in only 23 of the 46 (50%; 95%
confidence interval, 35% to 65%) joints with grade
2 or 3 arthroscopic abnormalities.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that radiography is not a sensitive method for identifying
moderate cartilage lesions in juvenile dogs with hip dysplasia.
If moderate cartilage lesions are an important
prognostic indicator for the success of triple pelvic
osteotomy, then methods other than radiography should
be used to detect these lesions. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:1091–1094)
Evaluation of serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentration after administration of ACTH in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Benitah Noémi , Feldman Edward C. , Kass Philip H. , Nelson Richard W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) concentration measurement after administration of ACTH for use in the diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism in dogs.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—110 dogs.

Procedure—Serum 17-OHP concentrations were measured before and after ACTH stimulation in 53 healthy dogs to establish reference values for this study. Affected dogs had pituitary-dependent (n = 40) or adrenal tumor–associated (12) hyperadrenocorticism or potentially had atypical hyperadrenocorticism (5; diagnosis confirmed in 1 dog). In affected dogs, frequency interval and borderline and abnormal serum 17-OHP concentrations after ACTH stimulation were determined. Serum cortisol concentrations were assessed via low-dose dexamethasone suppression and ACTH stimulation tests.

Results—In healthy dogs, serum 17-OHP concentration frequency intervals were grouped by sex and reproductive status (defined as < 95th percentile). Frequency intervals of serum 17-OHP concentrations after ACTH stimulation were < 7.7, < 2.0, < 3.2, and < 3.4 ng/mL (< 23.3, < 6.1, < 9.7, and < 10.3 nmol/L) for sexually intact and neutered females and sexually intact and neutered males, respectively. In 53 dogs with confirmed hyperadrenocorticism, serum cortisol concentrations after ACTH stimulation and 8 hours after administration of dexamethasone and serum 17- OHP concentrations after ACTH stimulation were considered borderline or abnormal in 79%, 93%, and 69% of dogs, respectively. Two of 5 dogs considered to have atypical hyperadrenocorticism had abnormal serum 17-OHP concentrations after ACTH stimulation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Serum 17-OHP concentration measurement after ACTH stimulation may be useful in the diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism in dogs when other test results are equivocal. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1095–1101)
Effect of a 24-hour infusion of an isotonic electrolyte replacement fluid on the renal clearance of electrolytes in healthy neonatal foals
Authors: Buchanan Benjamin R. , Sommardahl Carla S. , Rohrbach Barton W. , Andrews Frank M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the effects of a 24-hour infusion of an isotonic electrolyte replacement fluid (IERF) on weight, serum and urine electrolyte concentrations, and other clinicopathologic variables in healthy neonatal foals.

Animals—4 healthy 4-day-old foals.

Design—Prospective study.

Procedure—An IERF was administered to each foal at an estimated rate of 80 mL/kg/d (36.4 mL/lb/d) for 24 hours. Body weight was measured before and after the infusion period. Urine was collected via catheter during 4-hour periods; blood samples were collected at 4-hour intervals. Variables including urine production; urine and serum osmolalities; sodium, potassium, and chloride concentrations in urine and serum; urine and serum creatinine concentrations; urine osmolality-to-serum osmolality ratio (OsmR); transtubular potassium gradient (TTKG); and percentage creatinine clearance (Crcl) of electrolytes were recorded at 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 hours during the infusion period. Immediately after the study period, net fluid and whole-body electrolyte changes from baseline values were calculated.

Results—Compared with baseline values, urine and serum sodium and chloride serum concentrations, urine and serum osmolalities, OsmR, and percentage Crcl of sodium and chloride were significantly increased at various time points during the infusion; urine production did not change significantly. After 24 hours, weight, TTKG, serum creatinine concentration, and whole-body potassium had significantly decreased from baseline values.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that administration of an IERF containing a physiologic concentration of sodium may not be appropriate for use in neonatal foals that require maintenance fluid therapy. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1123–1129)
Longevity of protective immunity to experimental bovine herpesvirus-1 infection following inoculation with a combination modified-live virus vaccine in beef calves
Authors: Ellis John , Waldner Cheryl , Rhodes Carrie , Ricketts Van
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether a combination viral
vaccine containing modified-live bovine herpesvirus-1
(BHV-1) would protect calves from infection with a
recent field isolate of BHV-1.

Design—Randomized controlled trial.

Animals—Sixty 4- to 6-month-old beef calves.

Procedure—Calves were inoculated with a placebo
42 and 20 days prior to challenge (group 1; n = 10) or
with the combination vaccine 42 and 20 days prior to
challenge (group 2; 10), 146 and 126 days prior to challenge
(group 3; 10), 117 and 96 days prior to challenge
(group 4; 10), 86 and 65 days prior to challenge (group
5; 10), or 126 days prior to challenge (group 6; 10). All
calves were challenged with BHV-1 via aerosol.
Clinical signs, immune responses, and nasal shedding
of virus were monitored for 14 days after challenge.

Results—Vaccination elicited increases in BHV-1–specific
IgG antibody titers. Challenge with BHV-1 resulted
in mild respiratory tract disease in all groups, but
vaccinated calves had less severe signs of clinical disease.
Extent and duration of nasal BHV-1 shedding following
challenge was significantly lower in vaccinated
calves than in control calves. In calves that received 2
doses of the vaccine, the degree of protection varied
with the interval between the last vaccination and
challenge, as evidenced by increases in risk of clinical
signs and extent and duration of viral shedding.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that this combination vaccine provided protection from
infection with virulent BHV-1 and significantly reduced
nasal shedding of the virus for at least 126 days after vaccination.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:123–128)
Neonatal isoerythrolysis in horse foals and a mule foal: 18 cases (1988–2003)
Authors: Boyle Ashley G. , Magdesian K. Gary , Ruby Rebecca E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To assess data regarding clinical features, clinicopathologic and blood gas variables, and outcome from horse and mule foals with confirmed neonatal isoerythrolysis (NI).

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—17 horse and 1 mule foals.

Procedure—Medical records of foals (< 14 days old) with NI were reviewed. Information collected included signalment; clinical examination findings; results of hematologic, serum and plasma biochemical, and venous blood gas analyses and urinalysis; treatments; and outcome.

Results—Data from 17 horse foals and 1 mule foal with NI (mean age, 71 hours) were evaluated. Many foals had high serum indirect and direct bilirubin concentrations and sorbitol dehydrogenase activity. Whole blood immunoglobulin concentrations were < 400 mg/dL in 4 of 15 foals. Fresh whole blood transfusions were administered to 10 of 18 foals. Among the blood factors implicated in 11 foals, one (Dg) had not previously been associated with NI. Of 10 foals that received blood transfusions, 7 had significant improvements in Hct and hemoglobin concentration and 2 had significant improvements in central venous oxygen tension. Fifteen foals survived to discharge.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Data suggest that blood factor Dg may be associated with NI in foals. Liver disease may be concurrent with NI in foals, and NI can develop in foals with inadequate passive transfer of colostral antibodies. Whole blood transfusions were successful at increasing oxygencarrying capacity and improving peripheral tissue oxygenation in NI-affected foals. With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for foals with NI is good. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1276–1283)
Comparison of milk yield in dairy cows with different degrees of lameness
Authors: Hernandez Jorge A. , Garbarino Eduardo J. , Shearer Jan K. , Risco Carlos A. , Thatcher William W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare milk yield among cows classified
as nonlame, moderately lame, and lame and to
examine the relationship between severity of lameness
and milk yield in cows classified as lame during
the first 100 days after parturition.

Design—Longitudinal study.

Animals—465 Holstein cows.

Procedure—Cows were examined weekly during the
first 100 days after parturition and assigned a lameness
score by use of a 6-point locomotion scoring
system (ie, 0 to 5). Milk yield was compared among
cows classified as nonlame, moderately lame, and
lame. Among cows classified as lame (locomotion
score ≥ 4), milk yield was compared for cows with
low, medium, and high cumulative locomotion scores.
Cows classified as lame were further examined on a
tilt table for diagnosis and treatment of lameness.

Results—84 (18%), 212 (46%), and 169 (36%) cows
were classified as nonlame, moderately lame, and
lame, respectively. Among cows in their second or
later lactations, milk yield in lame cows was significantly
lower than that in moderately lame and nonlame
cows. In addition, among cows classified as
lame, milk yield was significantly lower in cows with
high locomotion scores during the first 100 days after
parturition, compared with cows with low scores.
Most (58%) cows classified as lame had laminitis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate
a linear relationship between increasing degree
of lameness and decreasing milk yield among cows in
their second or later lactations. The locomotion scoring
system used in this study may be a useful management
tool that veterinarians and dairy farmers
could adopt for early detection of lameness in dairy
cows. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:1292–1296)
Association between hygiene scores and somatic cell scores in dairy cattle
Authors: Reneau Jeffrey K. , Seykora Anthony J. , Heins Bradley J. , Endres Marcia I. , Farnsworth Ralph J. , F. Bey Russell
Published: December 2005

Objective—To develop a simple system for scoring
hygiene in dairy cattle and determine whether hygiene
scores were associated with individual cow somatic
cell scores (SCSs).

Design—Observational study.

Animals—1,191 cows.

Procedure—With the aid of a chart containing line
drawings and descriptive text, hygiene scores ranging
from 1 (clean) to 5 (dirty) were assigned for 5 body
areas: tail head, thigh (lateral aspect), abdomen (ventral
aspect), udder, and hind limbs (lower portion). To
determine repeatability, hygiene scores were
assigned to 75 cows twice by 4 experienced evaluators.
To determine accuracy and ease of use, hygiene
scores assigned by 14 college students to 23 cows
were compared with scores assigned by 2 faculty
members. To determine association with SCSs,
hygiene scores were assigned to each of 1,093 cows
by a single observer.

Results—Mean correlation coefficients for hygiene
scores assigned twice by 4 experienced evaluators
were ≥ 0.884, indicating high repeatability. Students
indicated that the scoring system was easy to use,
and mean correlation coefficient for student and faculty
member scores was 0.804. Hygiene scores for
the tail head, thigh (lateral aspect), and abdomen
(ventral aspect) were not significantly associated with
SCS. However, hygiene scores for the udder and hind
limbs (lower portion) and udder–hind limb composite
scores were significantly associated with SCS, with
SCS increasing as scores increased.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that the hygiene scoring system was repeatable,
accurate, and easy to use. However, only hygiene
scores for the udder and hind limbs and the udder–hind
limb composite score were significantly associated with
SCS. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:1297–1301)
Comparison of the odds of isolation, genotypes, and in vivo production of major toxins by Clostridium perfringens obtained from the gastrointestinal tract of dairy cows with hemorrhagic bowel syndrome or left-displaced abomasum
Authors: Dennison Anita C. , Van Metre David C. , Morley Paul S. , Callan Robert J. , Plampin Emily C. , Ellis R. P.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare the frequency of isolation, genotypes, and in vivo production of major lethal toxins ofClostridium perfringensin adult dairy cows affected with hemorrhagic bowel syndrome (HBS) versus left-displaced abomasum (LDA).

Design—Case-control study.

Animals—10 adult dairy cattle with HBS (cases) and 10 adult dairy cattle with LDA matched with cases by herd of origin (controls).

Procedure—Samples of gastrointestinal contents were obtained from multiple sites during surgery or necropsy examination. Each sample underwent testing for anaerobic bacteria by use of 3 culture methods. The genotype of isolates ofC perfringenswas determined via multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay. Major lethal toxins were detected by use of an ELISA. Data were analyzed with multivariable logistic regression and X2analysis.

Results—C perfringenstype A and type A with the beta2 gene (A + beta2) were the only genotypes isolated. Isolation ofC perfringenstype A and type A + beta2 was 6.56 and 3.3 times as likely, respectively, to occur in samples from cattle with HBS than in cattle with LDA. Alpha toxin was detected in 7 of 36 samples from cases and in 0 of 32 samples from controls. Beta2 toxin was detected in 9 of 36 samples from cases and 0 of 36 samples from controls.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—C perfringenstype A and type A + beta2 can be isolated from the gastrointestinal tract with significantly greater odds in cattle with HBS than in herdmates with LDA. Alpha and beta2 toxins were detected in samples from cows with HBS but not from cows with LDA. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:132–138)
Prevalence of naturally occurring Dirofilaria immitis infection among nondomestic cats housed in an area in which heartworms are endemic
Authors: Atkins Clarke , Moresco Anneke , Litster Annette
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine prevalences of heartworm exposure (ie, positive heartworm antibody test results) and heartworm infection (ie, positive heartworm antigen test results or identification of mature heartworms at necropsy) among nondomestic cats housed in an area in rural North Carolina whereDirofilaria immitisis known to be endemic and among nondomestic cats housed in areas with a low prevalence of dirofilariasis or in an area considered to be free from heartworms.

Design—Cross-sectional prevalence survey.

Animals—97 nondomestic cats in North Carolina (study population) and 29 nondomestic cats in Colorado; Queensland, Australia; or Auckland, New Zealand (control population).

Procedure—Results of serologic tests and postmortem examinations were reviewed.

Results—Results of heartworm antibody tests were positive for 57 of 75 (76%) study cats and 1 of 29 (3%) control cats. Male study cats had a significantly higher risk of heartworm exposure than did female study cats (relative risk, 1.3). Results of heartworm antigen tests were negative for all 47 study cats and 16 control cats that were tested. Postmortem examinations were performed on 21 study cats, and 1 (5%) was found to be infected with heartworms.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that nondomestic cats housed outdoors in the southeastern United States are at risk for heartworm exposure and infection, with male cats having a greater risk of exposure than female cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:139–143)
Cardiopulmonary effects of controlled versus spontaneous ventilation in pigeons anesthetized for coelioscopy
Authors: Touzot-Jourde Gwenola , Hernandez-Divers Stephen J. , Trim Cynthia M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the cardiorespiratory effects of controlled versus spontaneous ventilation in pigeons anesthetized for coelioscopy.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—30 healthy adult pigeons (Columbia livia).

Procedure—During isoflurane anesthesia, 15 pigeons were allowed to breathe spontaneously (SP group) and 15 were mechanically ventilated (MV group) by use of a pressure-limited ventilator. In each group, cardiopulmonary variables (including end-tidal CO2concentration [ETCO2]) were measured before (baseline), during, and after coelioscopy. An arterial blood sample was collected for blood gas analyses from each pigeon before coelioscopy and after the procedure, when the caudal thoracic air sac was still open.

Results—At baseline, hypoventilation was greater in the SP group than the MV group. Compared with the SP group values, ETCO2overestimated PaCO2to a greater degree in the MV group. Cardiovascular variables were not different between groups. After coelioscopy (when the air sac was open), PaCO2had decreased significantly from baseline in the MV group. In the SP group, hypoventilation worsened despite an increase in respiratory rate. After coelioscopy, PaO2in the SP group had decreased from baseline and was lower than PaO2in the MV group; arterial blood pressure and heart rate in the MV group had decreased from baseline and were lower than values in the SP group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In adult pigeons, controlled ventilation delivered by a pressurelimited device was not associated with clinically important adverse cardiopulmonary changes but may be associated with respiratory alkalosis and cardiovascular depression when air sac integrity has been disrupted. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1424–1428)
National survey of owner-directed aggression in English Springer Spaniels
Authors: Reisner Ilana R. , Houpt Katherine A. , Shofer Frances S.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine prevalence of ownerdirected aggression and identify associated environmental and genetic factors in English Springer Spaniels.

Design—Prevalence survey.

Animals—1,053 adult English Springer Spaniels.

Procedure—A mail survey was sent to 2,400 randomly selected owners of adult American Kennel Club-registered English Springer Spaniels. Dogs with a history of aggression to family members and familiar humans were compared with dogs without such a history.

Results—1,053 questionnaires (56.1% of the 1,877 delivered) were completed. A history of owner-directed growling or more intense aggression was reported in 510 (48.4%) dogs. Two hundred seventy-seven (26.3%) dogs had bitten a human in the past; 65.2% of bites were directed at familiar (owner or nonowner) adults and children. Variables associated with owner-directed aggression included sex of dog (male), neuter status (neutered, regardless of sex), show or bench lines, age > 4 years, aggression to unfamiliar adults and children, acquisition from a hobby breeder, less responsiveness to obedience cues, and a specific kennel and 1 popular sire from that kennel in a 4- generation pedigree.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Owner-directed aggression in adult English Springer Spaniels was associated with a number of environmental, sex-related, and inherited factors. To reduce the risk of aggression, prospective owners might seek a female, hunting-type English Springer Spaniel from an experienced breeder. However, because risk factors are broad and varied, there are limitations to the extent to which behavior can be predicted and further study is needed of the inheritance of aggression in this breed. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1594–1603)
Effects of treatment with omeprazole or ranitidine on gastric squamous ulceration in racing Thoroughbreds
Authors: Lester Guy D. , Smith Rachael L. , Robertson Ian D.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare the effects of oral administration of omeprazole and ranitidine on gastric squamous ulceration in Thoroughbreds in race training.

Design—Modified crossover study.

Animals—60 Thoroughbreds in race training with gastric squamous mucosal ulceration.

Procedure—Horses were randomly allocated into 3 groups. Group 1 received no treatment for 28 days followed by administration of omeprazole (4 mg/kg [1.8 mg/lb], PO, once daily) for 28 days; group 2 received omeprazole (4 mg/kg, PO, once daily) for 28 days followed by no treatment for 28 days; and group 3 received ranitidine (6.6 mg/kg [3.0 mg/lb], PO, q 8 h) for 28 days followed by administration of omeprazole (4 mg/kg, PO, once daily) for 28 days. Ulceration was assessed endoscopically at days 0, 28, 42, and 56. Lesions were scored from 0 (no ulceration) to 3 (severe ulceration).

Results—After the initial 28 days of treatment, the decrease in ulcer severity was significantly greater after omeprazole treatment than after ranitidine treatment. Ulcer severity decreased significantly in group 3 horses after 14 days of treatment with omeprazole. Discontinuation of omeprazole resulted in worsening of ulcer scores; however, ulcer scores at completion of the study were less than at day 0. Horses that received omeprazole after 28 days of ranitidine treatment had a further reduction in ulcer severity.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Omeprazole was more effective than ranitidine in healing gastric squamous ulcers in Thoroughbreds in race training. Improvement was detected by 14 days and persisted in most of the group 2 horses for at least 28 days after omeprazole treatment was discontinued. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1636–1639)
Musculoskeletal problems associated with lameness and poor performance among horses used for barrel racing: 118 cases (2000–2003)
Authors: Dabareiner Robin M. , Cohen Noah D. , Carter G. Kent , Nunn Sandra , Moyer William
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify types of musculoskeletal problems associated with lameness or poor performance in horses used for barrel racing.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—118 horses.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed for information on signalment, history, physical and lameness examination findings, diagnostic tests performed, diagnosis, and treatment.

Results—Most horses were examined because of lameness (n = 72 [61%]) rather than poor performance (46 [39%]), but owner complaint was not significantly associated with age or body weight of the horse. The most common performance change was refusal or failure to turn properly around the first barrel (19/46 [41%]). The right forelimb (n = 57 [48%]) was most commonly affected, followed by the left forelimb (51 [43%]), the left hind limb (31 [26%]), and the right hind limb (25 [21%]). In 31 horses (26%), both forelimbs were affected, and in 6 (5%), both hind limbs were affected. The most common musculoskeletal problems were forelimb foot pain only (n = 39 [33%]), osteoarthritis of the distal tarsal joints (17 [14%]), suspensory ligament desmitis (15 [13%]), forelimb foot pain with distal tarsal joint osteoarthritis (11 [9%]), and bruised feet (10 [8.5%]). In 81 (69%) horses, the affected joint was treated with intra-articular medications.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that in horses used for barrel racing that are examined because of lameness or poor performance, the forelimbs are more likely to be affected than the hind limbs, with forelimb foot pain and osteoarthritis of the distal tarsal joints being the most common underlying abnormalities. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005; 227:1646–1650)
Comparison between meloxicam and transdermally administered fentanyl for treatment of postoperative pain in dogs undergoing osteotomy of the tibia and fibula and placement of a uniplanar external distraction device
Authors: Lafuente M. Pilar , Franch Jordi , Durall Ignacio , Díaz-Bertrana M. Carmen , Márquez Rosa M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare the efficacy of meloxicam administered perioperatively with transdermal administration of fentanyl via a patch placed preoperatively in dogs undergoing orthopedic surgery.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—16 dogs.

Procedure—Unilateral or bilateral osteotomy of the tibia and fibula was surgically performed, and a uniplanar external distraction device was placed in each limb. Postoperative pain and lameness were assessed 24, 48, and 72 hours after administration of the first of 3 doses of meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg [0.09 mg/lb], IV, given preoperatively, followed by 0.1 mg/kg [0.045 mg/lb], IV, after 24 hours, and 0.1 mg/kg, PO, after 48 hours) or preoperative placement of a transdermal fentanyl patch (50 μg/h) left in place for 72 hours.

Results—No significant differences in total pain scores were detected between groups. Mean ± SD lameness scores assessed at 24 and 72 hours were lower in dogs in the meloxicam group than dogs in the fentanyl group. Lameness scores decreased with time in a similar manner in both treatment groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Perioperative administration of meloxicam or preoperative placement of a transdermal fentanyl patch provided effective and similar postoperative analgesia in dogs undergoing orthopedic surgery. However, because of its anti-inflammatory effects, treatment with meloxicam reduced the degree of lameness and resulted in rapid functional recovery of the limb. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1768–1774)
Evaluation of farm management practices as risk factors for clinical listeriosis and fecal shedding of Listeria monocytogenes in ruminants
Authors: Nightingale Kendra K. , Fortes Esther D. , Ho Alphina J. , Schukken Ynte H. , Grohn Yrjo T. , Wiedmann Martin
Published: December 2005

Objective—To assess seasonal variation in prevalence ofListeria monocytogenesonruminant farms and identify management practices associated with ruminant listeriosis and fecal shedding ofL monocytogenes.

Study Design—Case-control study.

Sample Population—2,056 samples of feces, feed, soil, and water from 24 case farms with listeriosis and 28 control farms without listeriosis.

Procedure—Samples were collected and evaluated via bacterial culture forL monocytogenes. Univariate associations between farm management practices and listeriosis and fecal shedding ofL monocytogeneswere assessed. Multivariate models were developed to identify farm management practices associated with listeriosis and fecal shedding ofL monocytogenes.

Results—The prevalence ofL monocytogenesoncattle, goat, and sheep farms was seasonal, especially in fecal samples, with peak prevalence in winter. Although the prevalence ofL monocytogenesin feedstuffs from small-ruminant farms also peaked during winter, the bacterium was detected at a constant rate in cattle farm feedstuffs throughout the year. Farm management practices, animal health and hygiene, and feedstuff quality and storage were associated with ruminant listeriosis and fecal shedding ofL monocytogenes.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the prevalence ofL monocytogeneson ruminant farms is seasonal, management practices are associated with ruminant listeriosis and fecal shedding ofL monocytogenes, and the epidemiologic features of listeriosis differ in cattle versus small ruminants. Awareness of risk factors may be used to develop control measures to reduce animal disease and introduction ofL monocytogenesinto the human food chain. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:1808–1814)
Evaluation of a rebound tonometer for measuring intraocular pressure in dogs and horses
Authors: Knollinger Amy M. , La Croix Noelle C. , Barrett Paul M. , Miller Paul E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements obtained with a rebound tonometer in dogs and horses with values obtained by means of applanation tonometry and direct manometry.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—100 dogs and 35 horses with clinically normal eyes, 10 enucleated eyes from 5 dogs, and 6 enucleated eyes from 3 horses.

Procedures—In the enucleated eyes, IOP measured by means of direct manometry was sequentially increased from 5 to 80 mm Hg, and IOP was measured with the rebound tonometer. In the dogs and horses, results of rebound tonometry were compared with results of applanation tonometry.

Results—For the enucleated dog and horse eyes, there was a strong (r2= 0.99) linear relationship between pressures obtained by means of direct manometry and those obtained by means of rebound tonometry. Mean ± SD IOPs obtained with the rebound tonometer were 10.8 ± 3.1 mm Hg (range, 5 to 17 mm Hg) and 22.1 ± 5.9 mm Hg (range, 10 to 34 mm Hg) for the dogs and horses, respectively. Mean IOPs obtained with the applanation tonometer were 12.9 ± 2.7 mm Hg (range, 8 to 18 mm Hg) and 21.0 ± 5.9 mm Hg (range, 9 to 33 mm Hg), respectively. Values obtained with the rebound tonometer were, on average, 2 mm Hg lower in the dogs and 1 mm Hg higher in the horses, compared with values obtained with the applanation tonometer.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the rebound tonometer provides accurate estimates of IOP in clinically normal eyes in dogs and horses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:244–248)
Evaluation of nonsurgical treatment of atlantoaxial subluxation in dogs: 19 cases (1992–2001)
Authors: Havig Marc E. , Cornell Karen K. , Hawthorne Julia C. , McDonnell John J. , Selcer Barbara A.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate long-term neurologic outcome
in dogs with atlantoaxial subluxation (AAS) that
were treated nonsurgically with a cervical splint.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals±19 dogs with AAS and managed with a
cervical splint.

Procedure—Medical records from 2 university hospitals
were reviewed. Information pertaining to trauma,
duration of clinical signs prior to admission, medical
treatments prior to admission, results of neurologic
and physical examinations at the time of admission,
results of laboratory testing, results of diagnostic
imaging, neurologic status at the time of discharge,
duration of time the cervical splint was used for treatment,
and neurologic status at the time of splint
removal and at a final reexamination was extracted
from the medical records. Long-term outcome was
defined as neurologic status greater than or equal to
1 year after splint removal. Factors associated with a
good or poor long-term outcome were determined.

Results—A good final outcome was reported in 10 of
16 dogs. Median duration of clinical signs prior to referral
was 30 days; dogs that were affected ≤ 30 days
were significantly more likely to have a good long-term
outcome, compared with dogs affected > 30 days. The
neurologic grade at admission, radiographic appearance
of the dens, age at onset of clinical signs, and
history were not associated with outcome.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Nonsurgical
management of AAS by use of a cervical splint is a
viable treatment modality for young dogs with a first
episode of acute-onset clinical signs, regardless
of the severity of neurologic deficits at admission.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:257–262)
Abomasal impaction in Holstein-Friesian cows: 80 cases (1980–2003)
Authors: Wittek Thomas , Constable Peter D. , Morin Dawn E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical examination findings, clinicopathologic abnormalities, and outcome of treatment in dairy cattle with abomasal impaction.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—80 lactating Holstein-Friesian cows ≥ 2 years old.

Procedure—Medical records of cattle with abomasal impaction admitted between 1980 and 2003 were retrieved, and data were extracted.

Results—All cows were reported to have decreased food intake; concurrent diseases were identified in 54 (68%). Seventeen cows did not have detectable ruminal motility, but physical examination findings were nonspecific and variable. In general, cattle had mild hypocalcemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and hyperglycemia, but serum potassium and chloride concentrations were typically within reference limits. Fifty-five (69%) cattle had impaction of the pyloric antrum alone, and 25 (31%) had impaction of the abomasal body and pyloric antrum. Right flank laparotomy and abomasal massage were performed in 73 cattle. After surgery, 54 (74%) cattle received 3 to 4 L of mineral oil, PO, daily for 1 to 5 days. Short-term (ie, discharged from the hospital) survival rate was significantly higher for cows with impaction of the pyloric antrum alone (42/45 [93%]) than for cows with impaction of the body and antrum (12/24 [50%]).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that physical examination findings and results of serum biochemical analyses do not facilitate the diagnosis of abomasal impaction in lactating Holstein cows and that exploratory right flank laparotomy is necessary to make the diagnosis. Abomasal impaction should be considered as a differential diagnosis for inappetence and poor milk production in lactating dairy cows. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;227:287–291)