bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical outcome and diseases associated with extreme neutrophilic leukocytosis in cats: 104 cases (1991–1999)
Authors: Lucroy Michael D. , Madewell Bruce R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To describe diseases, prognosis, and clinical outcomes associated with extreme neutrophilic leukocytosis in cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—104 cats with extreme neutrophilic leukocytosis.

Procedure—Medical records from 1991 to 1999 were examined to identify cats that had ≥ 50,000 WBC/µl with ≥ 50% neutrophils. Signalment, absolute and differential WBC counts, rectal temperature, clinical or pathologic diagnosis, duration and cost of hospitalization, and survival time were reviewed.

Results—Mean age of cats was 8.3 years, mean WBC count was 73,055 cells/µl, and mean absolute neutrophil count was 59,046 cells/µl. Mean duration of hospitalization was 5.9 days, and mean cost of hospitalization was $2,010. Twenty-nine (28%) cats were febrile, and 63 (61%) cats died. Overall median survival time was 30 days. Cats with neoplasia were nearly 14 times as likely to die unexpectedly as cats with other diseases.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Extreme neutrophilic leukocytosis was associated with a high mortality rate. The prognostic importance of extreme neutrophilic leukocytosis should not be overlooked. Cats and dogs have similar diseases, mortality rates, and treatment costs associated with extreme neutrophilic leukocytosis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:736–739)
Safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity of a modified-live equine influenza virus vaccine in ponies after induction of exercise-induced immunosuppression
Authors: Lunn D. Paul , Hussey Steve , Sebring Randy , Rushlow Keith E. , Radecki Steve V. , Whitaker-Dowling Patricia , Youngner Julius S. , Chambers Thomas M. , Holland Robert E. , Horohov David W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity of an intranasal cold-adapted modified- live equine influenza virus vaccine administered to ponies following induction of exercise-induced immunosuppression.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—Fifteen 9- to 15-month old ponies that had not had influenza.

Procedure—Five ponies were vaccinated after 5 days of strenuous exercise on a high-speed treadmill, 5 were vaccinated without undergoing exercise, and 5 were not vaccinated or exercised and served as controls. Three months later, all ponies were challenged by nebulization of homologous equine influenza virus. Clinical and hematologic responses and viral shedding were monitored, and serum and nasal secretions were collected for determination of influenza-virus-specific antibody isotype responses.

Results—Exercise caused immunosuppression, as indicated by depression of lymphocyte proliferation in response to pokeweed mitogen. Vaccination did not result in adverse clinical effects, and none of the vaccinated ponies developed clinical signs of infection following challenge exposure. In contrast, challenge exposure caused marked clinical signs of respiratory tract disease in 4 control ponies. Vaccinated and control ponies shed virus after challenge exposure. Antibody responses to vaccination were restricted to serum IgGa and IgGb responses in both vaccination groups. After challenge exposure, ponies in all groups generated serum IgGa and IgGb and nasal IgA responses. Patterns of serum hemagglutination inhibition titers were similar to patterns of IgGa and IgGb responses.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that administration of this MLV vaccine to ponies with exercise-induced immunosuppression was safe and that administration of a single dose to ponies provided clinical protection 3 months later. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:900–906)
Evaluation of a balanced fresh paste diet for maintenance of captive neotropical rattlesnakes used for venom production
Authors: Panizzutti Marcia Helena Martins , Oliveira Marcelo Mendonça de , Barbosa Jorge Luiz , Cavalcanti Plauto Leonardo Xavier , Rocha-Barbosa Oscar
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate efficacy of a balanced fresh
paste diet for maintenance of captive neotropical rattlesnakes
used for venom production.

Design—Controlled clinical trial.

Animals—40 healthy neotropical rattlesnakes.

Procedure—Rattlesnakes were force-fed once per
week (10% of body weight) for 19 weeks; 20 control
snakes received dead mice, whereas 20 test snakes
received a balanced fresh paste diet. Ecdysis rates
were calculated, and body weight was recorded
weekly. After 19 weeks, venom was extracted and
analyzed.

Results—Sickness or deaths were not observed;
weight loss during ecdysis and weight gain overall
were similar between groups. Snakes fed the balanced
fresh paste diet had similar ecdysis frequency,
venom potency, and protein concentration in venom
as did snakes fed mice.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that a balanced fresh paste diet has sufficient
nutritional value to avoid weight loss and death and
does not adversely affect venom quality in captive
neotropical rattlesnakes. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2001;218:912–914)
Incidence and prognostic value of low plasma ionized calcium concentration in cats with acute pancreatitis: 46 cases (1996–1998)
Authors: Kimmel Susan E. , Washabau Robert J. , Drobatz Kenneth J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the incidence and prognostic significance of low plasma ionized calcium concentration in cats with clinical signs of acute pancreatitis (AP).

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—46 cats with AP and 92 control cats with nonpancreatic diseases.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed, and results of clinicopathologic testing, including plasma ionized and total calcium concentrations, acid-base values, and electrolyte concentrations, were recorded. Cats with AP were grouped on the basis of outcome (survived vs died or were euthanatized), and plasma ionized calcium concentrations, acid-base values, and electrolyte concentrations were compared between groups.

Results—Serum total calcium concentration was low in 19 (41%) cats with AP, and plasma ionized calcium concentration was low in 28 (61%). Cats with AP had a significantly lower median plasma ionized calcium concentration (1.07 mmol/L) than did control cats (1.12 mmol/L). Nineteen (41%) cats with AP died or were euthanatized; these cats had a significantly lower median plasma ionized calcium concentration (1.00 mmol/L) than did cats that survived (1.12 mmol/L). Ten of the 13 cats with AP that had plasma ionized calcium concentrations ≤ 1.00 mmol/L died or were euthanatized.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that low plasma ionized calcium concentration is common in cats with AP and is associated with a poorer outcome. A grave prognosis and aggressive medical treatment are warranted for cats with AP that have a plasma ionized calcium concentration ≤ 1.00 mmol/L. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:1105–1109)
Reproductive effects of estradiol cypionate in postparturient dairy cows
Authors: Wagner Denae C. , BonDurant Robert H. , Sischo William M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effects of estradiol cypionate
(ECP) on measures of reproductive efficiency
in postparturient dairy cows.

Design—Randomized clinical trial.

Animals—273 cows in a single herd in California.

Procedure—Twenty-four hours after parturition, 122
cows were treated with ECP (4 mg, IM); the remaining
151 cows were untreated controls. Percentages of cattle
with abnormal findings during uterine palpation 27
to 40 days after parturition were compared between
groups, along with days to first artificial insemination
(AI), percentages of cows that were not pregnant after
the first AI, and days to pregnancy.

Results—Treatment with ECP did not have a significant
effect on whether results of uterine palpation 27
to 40 days after parturition were abnormal, days to first
AI, or odds that a cow would be pregnant after the first
AI. Treatment with ECP appeared to have a negative
effect on days to pregnancy (hazard ratio, 0.72)

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that prophylactic administration of ECP during the
early postparturient period in dairy cows did not have
measurable beneficial effects on reproductive efficiency.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2001;219:220–223)
Osteomyelitis of the sustentaculum tali in horses: 10 cases (1992–1998)
Authors: Hand D. Reese , Watkins Jeffery P. , Honnas Clifford M. , Kemper Deborah
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine outcome of horses with
osteomyelitis of the sustentaculum tali (ST), with or
without associated tarsal sheath tenosynovitis, following
surgical débridement and lavage.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—10 horses in which a diagnosis of
osteomyelitis of the ST had been made on the basis
of history, physical examination findings, and results
of radiography.

Procedure—Information on results of diagnostic testing,
surgical findings, postoperative treatment, and
short-term outcome was obtained from the medical
records. Long-term follow-up information was
obtained through reevaluation of horses at the teaching
hospital and telephone conversations with referring
veterinarians, owners, and trainers.

Results—Treatment consisted of surgical débridement,
intra- and postoperative lavage, and long-term
antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory treatment. Eight
horses had evidence of involvement of the tarsal
sheath. One horse was euthanatized after surgery
because of a lack of response to treatment; the other
9 were discharged from the hospital. Severity of
lameness had improved, but all still had grade-1 or -2
lameness at the time of discharge. One horse was
euthanatized after discharge because of contralateral
hind limb laminitis, and another horse was lost to follow-
up. Of the remaining 7 horses, 6 returned to their
previous use, and 1 was sound but retired for breeding
for unrelated reasons.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that horses with osteomyelitis of the ST, with or
without concomitant tarsal sheath tenosynovitis, can
have an excellent to good outcome and may return to
their previous use after surgical débridement of
affected tissues and lavage of the tarsal sheath. (J Am
Vet Med Assoc 2001;219:341–345)
Tissue disposition and depletion of penicillin G after oral administration with milk in unweaned dairy calves
Authors: Musser Jeffrey M. B. , Anderson Kevin L. , Boison Joe O.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine tissue depletion of penicillin G in calves after oral ingestion with milk replacer and estimate a withdrawal period.

Design—Longitudinal controlled trial.

Animals—26 Holstein calves.

Procedure—Once daily, 24 calves were fed milk replacer containing procaine penicillin G (0.68 mg/kg [0.31 mg/lb] of body weight); 2 calves served as controls. After 1 feeding, 12 calves were euthanatized in groups of 3 each 4, 6.5, 9.5, and 13 hours after feeding. After 14 days, 12 calves were euthanatized in groups of 3 each 4, 6.5, 9.5, and 13 hours after the final feeding. Concentrations of penicillin G were determined in tissues, blood, and urine by use of high-performance liquid chromatography.

Results—Penicillin G was not detected in muscle samples of treated calves. The highest concentrations of penicillin G in plasma, kidney, and liver were 13 ng/ml, 92 ng/g, and 142 ng/g, respectively. Thirteen carcasses had violative drug residues; 12 had violative residues in the liver only, and 1 had violative residues in the liver and kidney. A 21-hour withdrawal period was estimated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Liver had the highest concentration of penicillin G and was most likely to have violative residues. Feeding calves milk containing penicillin G has the potential to cause violative drug residues in tissues. It is recommended to observe an appropriate withdrawal time prior to slaughter if calves are fed milk from cows treated with penicillin G. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219: 346–350)
Bacterial microflora of normal and telangiectatic livers in cattle
Authors: Stotland Elad I. , Edwards John F. , Roussel Allen J. , Simpson Russell B.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify potential bacterial pathogens
in normal and telangiectatic livers of mature cattle at
slaughter and to identify consumer risk associated
with hepatic telangiectasia.

Sample Population—50 normal livers and 50 severely
telangiectatic livers.

Procedure—Normal and telangiectatic livers were
collected at slaughter for aerobic and anaerobic bacterial
culture. Isolates were identified, and patterns of
isolation were analyzed. Histologic examination of all
livers was performed.

Results—Human pathogens isolated from normal
and telangiectatic livers included Escherichia coli
O157:H7 and group-D streptococci. Most livers in
both groups contained bacteria in low numbers; however,
more normal livers yielded negative culture
results. More group-D streptococci were isolated
from the right lobes of telangiectatic livers than from
the left lobes, and more gram-negative anaerobic bacteria
were isolated from left lobes of telangiectatic livers
than from right lobes. All telangiectatic lesions
were free of fibrosis, active necrotizing processes,
and inflammation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The USDA
regulation condemning telangiectatic livers is justified
insofar as these livers contain more bacteria than normal
livers do; however, normal livers contain similar
species of microflora. Development of telangiectasia
could not be linked to an infectious process. The finding
of E coli O157:H7 in bovine livers suggests that
information regarding bacterial content of other offal
and muscle may identify sources of this and other
potential foodborne pathogens and assist in establishing
critical control points for the meat industry. (J
Am Vet Med Assoc 2001;219:36–39)
Survival times of and prognostic indicators for dogs with heart base masses: 25 cases (1986–1999)
Authors: Vicari Erin D. , Brown Dorothy C. , Holt David E. , Brockman Daniel J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine survival times of and prognostic
indicators for dogs with heart base masses.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—25 dogs.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed to
obtain information regarding signalment; initial complaint;
results of physical examination, radiography,
electrocardiography, and echocardiography; surgical
findings; medical and surgical treatment; outcome;
necropsy findings; survival time; and cause of death.

Results—Survival time ranged from 0 to 1,096 days
(mean, 213 days; median, 57 days). None of the variables
examined, including initial complaints and
results of physical examination, radiography, electrocardiography,
and echocardiography, were associated
with survival time. However, dogs that underwent
pericardectomy had a significantly longer mean survival
time (mean ± SD, 661 ± 170 days) than did dogs
that were treated medically (129 ± 51 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that dogs with heart base masses that undergo
pericardectomy may survive longer than those that
receive medical treatment alone. (J Am Vet Med
Assoc 2001;219:485–487)
Effect of gonadectomy on subsequent development of age-related cognitive impairment in dogs
Authors: Hart Benjamin L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether gonadectomy predisposes dogs to development of age-related behavioral changes linked to cognitive impairment.

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—29 sexually intact male dogs, 63 spayed female dogs, and 47 castrated male dogs 11 to 14 years old.

Procedure—Information on possible impairments in 4 behavioral categories linked to cognitive impairment (orientation in the home and yard, social interactions, house training, and sleep-wake cycle) was obtained from owners of the dogs by use of a structured telephone interview format. A second interview was performed 12 to 18 months after the initial interview, and differences in responses were evaluated.

Results—Sexually intact male dogs were significantly less likely than neutered dogs to progress from mild impairment (ie, impairment in 1 category) to severe impairment (ie, impairment in ≥ 2 categories) during the time between the first and second interviews. This difference was not attributable to differences in ages of the dogs, duration of follow-up, or the owners, perceptions of the dogs, overall health.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the presence of circulating testosterone in aging sexually intact male dogs may slow the progression of cognitive impairment, at least among dogs that already have signs of mild impairment. Estrogens would be expected to have a similar protective role in sexually intact female dogs; unfortunately, too few sexually intact female dogs were available for inclusion in the study to test this hypothesis. There may be a need to evaluate possible methods for counteracting the effects of loss of sex hormones in gonadectomized dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001; 219:51–56)
Study of cattle persistently infected with bovine viral diarrhea virus that lack detectable virus in serum
Authors: Grooms Daniel L. , Kaiser Lana , Walz Paul H. , Baker John C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether cattle persistently infected with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) that lack virus detectable in serum by use of the immunoperoxidase microtiter assay (IPMA) can transmit the virus to susceptible herdmates and determine prevalence of these cattle.

Design—Clinical trial and serologic survey.

Sample Population—2 cattle and 1,952 blood samples.

Procedure—A persistently infected cow in which virus could not be detected in serum was housed with a BVDV-seronegative steer. Blood and nasal swab specimens were tested via virus isolation and serum virus neutralization. Parallel WBC preparations and sera from blood samples of 1,952 adult cows were screened for BVDV by use of IPMA.

Results—The steer seroconverted to BVDV within 4 weeks of contact with the cow. Virus was detected in sera and WBC of 5 adult cows that were verified as persistently infected by retest 3 weeks later. Cattle persistently infected with BVDV in which virus could not be detected in both serum and WBC by use of IPMA were not found.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Cattle persistently infected with BVDV in which virus cannot be detected in serum by use of IPMA may serve as virus reservoirs for infecting susceptible cattle. Persistent infection was detected at a prevalence of 0.26%. Screening adult cattle by use of IPMA on serum samples appears to be a reliable means of detecting persistent infection with BVDV. Prevalence of cattle persistently infected with BVDV that have negative results of IPMA on serum is extremely low. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:629–631)
Survey of veterinary technical and professional skills in students and recent graduates of a veterinary college
Authors: Tinga Carol E. , Adams Cindy L. , Bonnett Brenda N. , Ribble Carl S.
Published: January 2006

Objectives—To determine perceptions of veterinary technical and professional skills among veterinary students and recent graduates.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Sample Population—281 students and 142 recent graduates from the Ontario Veterinary College.

Procedure—A survey was designed and administered to first- through fourth-year students and veterinarians who had graduated either 1 or 6 years before survey administration.

Results—Overall response rate was 70%. Learning about technical and professional skills was highly valued. Most participants felt they had not received instruction about professional skills, but those who had felt more competent about them. Perceptions of competence increased slightly with increased comfort discussing emotional veterinary issues with instructors. Neither gender nor increased age was related to increased feelings of competence. Almost all fourth-year students felt competent and comfortable about examining an animal with the client present, assessing suffering, diagnosing parvovirus infection, performing surgery, and working as group members. However, many did not feel competent or comfortable about delivering bad news, setting time limits yet providing quality service, helping clients with limited funds make treatment decisions, dealing with demanding people, and euthanasia. Feelings of competence and comfort were closely related but were not identical.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In the interests of best preparing entry-level veterinarians, technical and professional skills need to be emphasized in a learning environment where students feel comfortable discussing emotional veterinary issues. A professional skills curriculum addressing underlying selfawareness, communication, and interpersonal issues, as well as procedural matters, would likely increase the proportion of fourth-year students who feel competent and comfortable about professional skills by the end of their undergraduate training. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:924–931)
Prolonged anesthesia with desflurane and fentanyl in dogs during conventional and laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Martín María F. , Lima Juan R. , Ezquerra Luis J. , Carrasco María S. , Usón-Gargallo Jesús
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effects of prolonged anesthesia with desflurane in dogs undergoing laparotomy or abdominal laparoscopy.

Design—Randomized prospective study.

Animals—20 adult mixed-breed dogs.

Procedure—Dogs were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups with 10 dogs/group. Anesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with desflurane and fentanyl, and pyloroplasty was performed. In 10 dogs, a ventral midline laparotomy was performed; in the other 10, abdominal laparoscopy was performed. Dogs were monitored for cardiovascular and respiratory responses (ECG, oxygen saturation [SpO2], arterial blood pressure, rectal temperature, end-tidal partial pressure of carbon dioxide [PETCO2], and expired desflurane concentration). Recovery times were recorded.

Results—Mean ± SD duration of anesthesia was 201 ± 25 minutes for dogs undergoing laparotomy and 287 ± 15 minutes for dogs undergoing laparoscopy. Anesthesia was accompanied by hypotension that was less severe in dogs undergoing laparoscopy. Heart rate did not vary significantly during anesthesia. The SpO2was > 97% in all dogs at all times, and PETCO2remained within reference limits. Recovery times for dogs that underwent laparotomy were not significantly different from those for dogs that underwent laparoscopy. Mean ± SD time to standing was 13.6 ± 2.4 minutes for dogs that underwent laparotomy and 12.5 ± 2.9 minutes for dogs that underwent laparoscopy.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that induction of anesthesia with propofol and maintenance with desflurane and fentanyl is safe in dogs undergoing abdominal surgery. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:941–945)
Endoscopic assessment of airway function as a predictor of racing performance in Thoroughbred yearlings: 427 cases (1997–2000)
Authors: Stick John A. , Peloso John G. , Morehead James P. , Lloyd James , Eberhart Sue , Padungtod Pawin , Derksen Frederik J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare endoscopic findings of the upper portion of the respiratory tract in Thoroughbred yearlings with their subsequent race records to determine whether subjective assessment of airway function may be used as a predictor of future racing performance.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—427 Thoroughbred yearlings.

Procedures—Endoscopic examination findings were obtained from the medical records and the videoendoscopic repository of the Keeneland 1996 September yearling sales. Racing records were requested for the yearlings through the end of their 4-year-old racing season (1997–2000). Twenty-nine measures of racing performance were correlated with endoscopic findings. Subjective arytenoid cartilage movement grades were determined, using a 4-point grading scale (grade 1 = symmetrical synchronous abduction of the arytenoid cartilages; grade 4 = no substantial movement of the left arytenoid cartilage).

Results—Of the 427 Thoroughbred yearlings included in this study, 364 established race records, and 63 did not. Opinions regarding suitability for purchase, meeting conditions of the sale, and the presence of epiglottic abnormalities had no significant association with racing performance. Arytenoid cartilage movement grades were significantly associated with many of the dependent variables. However, palatine abnormalities were not predictive of inferior racing performance.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Thoroughbred yearlings with grade-1 and -2 arytenoid cartilage movements had significantly better racing performance as adults, compared with yearlings with grade- 3 arytenoid cartilage movements. In contrast, epiglottic and palatine abnormalities were not predictive of inferior racing performance. Therefore, evaluation of laryngeal function, but not epiglottic or palatine abnormalities, using the 4-point grading system, should be the major factor in developing recommendations for prospective buyers. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219: xxx–xxx)
Use of prostaglandins and bromocriptine mesylate for pregnancy termination in bitches
Authors: Gobello Cristina , Castex Gervasio , Corrada Yanina , Klima Liliana , de la Sota Rodolfo L. , Rodríguez Raúl
Published: January 2006

Objective—To assess the efficacy and safety of 2 protocols using bromocriptine mesylate and prostaglandins to terminate unwanted pregnancy in bitches.

Design—Prospective randomized single-blind controlled study.

Animals—34 crossbred and purebred bitches referred for possible pregnancy termination. Seven additional pregnant bitches were used as controls.

Procedure—Pregnancy was assessed by ultrasonographic examination from day 25 after mating in all bitches. Of the 34 bitches, 25 were pregnant and were randomly allocated to a treatment group. Group- 1 dogs (n = 12) received a combination of increasing amounts of bromocriptine mesylate (15 to 30 µg/kg [6.8 to 13.6 µg/lb], PO, q 12 h) and dinoprost tromethamine (0.1 to 0.2 mg/kg [0.045 to 0.09 mg/lb], SC, q 24 h). Group-2 dogs (n =13) received a combination of increasing amounts of bromocriptine mesylate (the same schedule as group-1 dogs) and cloprostenol sodium (1 µg/kg [0.45 µg/lb], SC, q 48 h). Both groups were treated until pregnancy termination.

Results—Treatment success was 100% in both groups. Days of treatment required for pregnancy termination did not significantly differ between groups (5.0 ± 0.6 vs 3.7 ± 0.6 days, group-1 and group-2 dogs, respectively) although adverse effects only developed in group-1 dogs. At the end of the protocols, pseudopregnancy was observed in 3 of 12 and 6 of 13 group-1 and group-2 dogs, respectively. Pregnancy termination was followed by a mucoid sanguineous vulvar discharge for 3 to 10 days.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of this study indicate that protocols that combine the use of bromocriptine mesylate and prostaglandins for the termination of unwanted pregnancy in bitches are efficient and safe. The use of bromocriptine mesylate and cloprostenol had the best results and could be easily used on an outpatient basis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1017–1019)
Evaluation of a cranial arthroscopic approach to the stifle joint for the treatment of femorotibial joint disease in horses: 23 cases (1998–1999)
Authors: Peroni John F. , Stick John A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To describe a single-portal cranial arthroscopic approach to the stifle joint in horses and to determine the clinical outcome in horses with femorotibial joint disease in which this approach was used.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—23 adult horses.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed to obtain information on clinical outcome in horses in which the single-portal cranial arthroscopic approach was used.

Results—Twenty-nine stifle joints of 23 horses were examined arthroscopically, using the described approach. Subchondral bone cysts were treated in 19 medial femoral condyles of 12 horses. Unilateral cruciate ligament desmitis (4 horses), meniscal tearing (3), or both (2) were identified in 9 horses. Evidence of degenerative joint disease without cystic lesions or soft tissue trauma was found in 2 horses. Information on clinical outcome was obtained for 21 of 23 horses. A successful outcome was obtained in 15 of 21 horses and was defined as return to sound performance at a degree equal to or better than that prior to injury and lameness. Eight of 12 horses treated for medial femoral condylar cysts had a successful outcome. Four show horses treated for cruciate ligament lesions alone successfully returned to showing activity. None of the 3 horses with meniscal tearing were able to perform successfully.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The femorotibial joint was evaluated through a single-portal cranial arthroscopic approach, using the femoropatellar joint as the point of access. This approach was easy to perform, allowed controlled access to the femorotibial joint, avoided accidental damage to articular structures, and required fewer access portals. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220: 1046–1052)
Clinical findings associated with prairie rattlesnake bites in dogs: 100 cases (1989–1998)
Authors: Hackett Tim B. , Wingfield Wayne E. , Mazzaferro Elisa M. , Benedetti Joanna S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify clinically relevant variables and treatments for dogs bitten by prairie rattlesnakes (Crotalus viridis viridis).

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—100 client-owned dogs.

Procedure—Records of dogs evaluated for rattlesnake envenomation from 1989 to 1998 were reviewed. Analysis was performed to test for significant associations among clinical variables or treatments and cell counts, costs, and duration of hospitalization.

Results—Most prairie rattlesnake bites occurred between May and September. Dogs were 3 months to 12 years old (median, 3.7 years); most were bitten on the head in the late afternoon. There was no sex predilection. Median time to evaluation was 1 hour (range, 15 minutes to 13 hours). Swelling in the area of the bite was the primary physical abnormality. Principal initial laboratory findings were echinocytosis, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis, and prolonged activated clotting time. Ninety-four dogs were hospitalized; 48 were discharged the following day. Antimicrobials and crystalloid fluids, glucocorticoids, antihistamines, and antivenin administered IV were the most commonly used treatments. One dog died, and small dogs were hospitalized longer than large dogs. Antivenin administration was not significantly associated with duration of hospitalization but was associated with higher platelet counts after treatment and higher total hospital costs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Prairie rattlesnake envenomation in dogs is associated with high morbidity rate but low mortality rate. The efficacy of administration of antivenin for dogs with bites from this snake species is questionable. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1675–1680)
Association between the strength of serologic recognition of bovine leukosis virus and lymphocyte count in bovine leukosis virus-infected cows
Authors: Nagy Dusty W. , Tyler Jeff W. , Stoker Aaron , Kleiboeker Steven B.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether strength of serologic
recognition of bovine leukosis virus (BLV) by use
of ELISA is associated with blood lymphocyte counts.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—161 cows with positive results of ELISA
for BLV.

Procedure—Sample-to-positive ratio (S:P), which is
the ratio between the test sample and a positive control
sample, was compared among lymphocytotic and
nonlymphocytotic cows. A regression model was
constructed to evaluate the association between
blood lymphocyte concentration and S:P, age, and the
interaction of these terms.

Results—Mean S:P differed significantly between
lymphocytotic (2.58 ± 0.36) and nonlymphocytotic
(2.38 ± 0.39) cows. Age and S:P were significantly
associated with lymphocyte count.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Sample-topositive
ratio and lymphocyte count were related;
however, cows with high S:P were not always lymphocytotic.
Culling cows on the basis of S:P will
reduce the herd load of infectious virus faster than
random culling of ELISA-positive cows; however,
culling on the basis of lymphocyte count will eliminate
a greater proportion of the reservoir of infection.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;220:1681–1684)
Effects of administration of antimicrobials in feed on growth rate and feed efficiency of pigs in multisite production systems
Authors: Dritz Steve S. , Tokach Michael D. , Goodband Robert D. , Nelssen Jim L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate effect of various regimens
for administration of antimicrobials in feed on growth
rate and feed efficiency (feed/gain) of pigs in multisite
production systems.

Design—Controlled trial.

Animals—24,099 growing pigs in 3 multisite production
systems.

Procedure—10 trials involving various regimens for
administration of antimicrobials in feed were evaluated.
Trial 1 compared effects of 2 antimicrobial regimens
on finishing pig performance. Trials 2 through
10 compared growth rate and feed efficiency of nursery
and finishing pigs given antimicrobials in feed
with values for control pigs not given antimicrobials.

Results—In trial 1, no significant differences were
observed between the 2 antimicrobial regimens. In
the remaining trials, growth rate of nursery pigs fed
antimicrobials was significantly improved, compared
with growth rate of control pigs. However, growth
rate of finishing pigs and feed efficiency of nursery
and finishing pigs were not significantly improved by
adding antimicrobials to the feed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that use of antimicrobials in the feed to promote
growth should be limited to the nursery phase in multisite
pig production systems. Use of antimicrobials in
the feed of finishing pigs should be limited to therapeutic
applications in which a diagnosis of bacterial
infection susceptible to the antimicrobial to be used
has been confirmed. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2002;220:1690–1695)
Perceptions of state public health officers and state veterinarians regarding risks of bioterrorism in the United States
Authors: Tharratt R. Steven , Case James T. , Hird David W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To assess perceptions of state public
health officers and state veterinarians in the United
States regarding the risks of bioterrorism and determine
the degree of support provided for activities
related to bioterrorism.

Design—Cross-sectional survey.

Sample Population—State public health officers and
state veterinarians.

Procedure—A questionnaire was sent between April
and June 2001 to the state public health officer and
state veterinarian in each of the 50 states and the
District of Columbia.

Results—Perceptions of the risk of bioterrorism attacks
were similar for state public health officers and state veterinarians.
Veterinarians perceived the risks associated
with foot-and-mouth disease and Newcastle disease to
be higher than did physicians. State veterinarians perceived
the risks associated with an anthrax hoax, brucellosis,
and ricin toxicosis to be lower than did state
public health officers. Risk posed by agents that affected
animals exclusively was perceived to be higher than
risk posed by agents that affected humans exclusively
and zoonotic agents. Number of full-time-equivalent
positions devoted to bioterrorism surveillance and percentage
of the budget devoted to bioterrorism activities
were significantly lower for offices run by state veterinarians
than for offices run by state public health officers.
State veterinarians were significantly less likely to
be aware of actual bioterrorism incidents within their
state or district than were state public health officers.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Provision of additional
resources to state veterinarians and explicit integration
of their expertise and surveillance capabilities
may be important to effectively mitigate the risk of bioterrorism.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;220:1782–1787)
Evaluation of treatment with doxorubicin and piroxicam or doxorubicin alone for multicentric lymphoma in dogs
Authors: Mutsaers Anthony J. , Glickman Nita W. , DeNicola Dennis B. , Widmer William R. , Bonney Patty L. , Hahn Kevin A. , Knapp Deborah W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the antitumor and toxic effects of treatment with doxorubicin combined with piroxicam or doxorubicin alone for multicentric lymphoma in dogs.

Design—Nonrandomized clinical trial.

Animals—75 dogs with multicentric lymphoma.

Procedure—33 dogs were treated with doxorubicin (30 mg/m2, IV, q 21 d, for 3 doses) and piroxicam (0.3 mg/kg [0.14 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h); results were compared with a historical control group of 42 dogs treated with doxorubicin (30 mg/m2, IV, q 21 d, for 3 doses) alone.

Results—The percentages of dogs that had remission with doxorubicin-piroxicam treatment (79%) or doxorubicin treatment alone (74%) were not significantly different. Median duration of first remission was 130 days with doxorubicin-piroxicam and 147 days with doxorubicin alone; these values were not significantly different. Severe toxicosis was observed in 22% of dogs treated with doxorubicin-piroxicam and 17% of dogs treated with doxorubicin alone.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Both treatment protocols were efficacious and well tolerated. The doxorubicin-piroxicam treatment was no more effective regarding response rate, remission duration, or survival duration, compared with the control group treated with doxorubicin alone. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1813–1817)
Evaluation of tension obtained by use of three knots for tying cerclage wires by surgeons of various abilities and experience
Authors: Roe Simon C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare tension of 3 cerclage wire
knots tied by surgeons of various abilities and experience.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Sample Population—Participants and faculty at a
postgraduate course in veterinary orthopedics.

Procedure—Subjects tied a cerclage of their choice
on an instrumented tying stand that displayed the
tension on a computer. Mean tensions in cerclage
wires tied with twist, single loop, or double loop
knots were compared. The relationship between level
of surgeon experience and tension achieved was
examined.

Results—29 twist, 30 single loop, and 16 double loop
wires were analyzed. Mean ± SD tension for twist
knots was significantly less than for single loop knots
(82.3 ± 46.1 vs 166.6 ± 42.2 N, respectively). Double
loop knots achieved significantly greater tension
(392.0 ± 116.6 N) than twist and single loop knots did,
even though few participants had ever tied this knot
previously. There was no correlation with experience
of the participant. For twist knots, wiggling the wire
during cutting and pushing the twist over to flatten it
to the bone further reduced tension.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cerclage
applied with a twist knot does not compress fracture
fragments as effectively as cerclage applied with single
loop or double loop techniques. Because greater
compression of fragments will improve the stability of
a fracture, a surgeon should strive to maximize the
tension in the cerclage that they use. Experience and
abilities of the surgeon are not associated with ability
to tie cerclage wires tightly. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2002;220:334–336)
Comparative efficacy of an injectable vaccine and an intranasal vaccine in stimulating Bordetella bronchiseptica-reactive antibody responses in seropositive dogs
Authors: Ellis John A. , Krakowka G. Steven , Dayton Arthur D. , Konoby Carrie
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare antibody responses to intranasal and SCBordetella bronchisepticavaccines in seropositive dogs.

Design—Randomized controlled study.

Animals—40 young adult Beagles vaccinated againstB bronchiseptica.

Procedure—Dogs were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups (intranasal vaccine, SC vaccine, intranasal and SC vaccines, no vaccine) and vaccinated on day 0. Serum and salivaryB bronchiseptica-reactive antibody responses were measured on days 0 through 7, 10, 14, 21, and 28.

Results—Dogs that were vaccinated with the SC vaccine, alone or in combination with the intranasal vaccine, had a significant increase in serum concentration ofB bronchiseptica-reactive IgG beginning on day 5 and persisting through day 28. Dogs that were vaccinated with the intranasal vaccine alone had a significant increase in serum concentration ofB bronchiseptica- reactive IgG beginning on day 10 and persisting through day 28, but serum IgG concentration in these dogs was significantly less than concentration in dogs that received the SC vaccine. Neither vaccine had a demonstrable effect on salivary concentrations ofB bronchiseptica-reactive IgA or IgG. On day 10, all vaccinated groups had significantly higher serum IgA concentrations than did unvaccinated control dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the SCB bronchisepticavaccine may be used to stimulate antibody responses in seropositive dogs. There was no apparent benefit to administering these vaccines simultaneously. Intranasal vaccines may not be effective for booster vaccination of dogs previously exposed to or immunized againstB bronchiseptica. Dogs should be vaccinated at least 5 days prior to exposure toB bronchiseptica. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:43–48)
Evaluation of a commercially available hyperimmune plasma product for prevention of naturally acquired pneumonia caused by Rhodococcus equi in foals
Authors: Giguère Steeve , Gaskin Jack M. , Miller Corey , Bowman James L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine efficacy of a commercially available hyperimmune plasma product for prevention of naturally acquired pneumonia caused byRhodococcus equiinfoals.

Design—Randomized clinical trial.

Animals—165 foals.

Procedure—Foals were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups (hyperimmune plasma or nontreated controls). Foals with failure of passive transfer (FPT) of immunity were treated with hyperimmune plasma and evaluated as a third group. Foals that received plasma were given 950 ml between 1 and 10 days of age and between 30 and 50 days of age. A tracheobronchial aspirate was obtained from foals with clinical signs of respiratory tract disease for bacteriologic culture.

Results—A significant difference in incidence of pneumonia caused byR equiin foals with adequate passive transfer was not detected between foals that received plasma (19.1%) and nontreated foals (30%). Of 13 foals without FPT that received plasma and developed pneumonia caused byR equi, 12 developed disease prior to administration of the second dose of hyperimmune plasma. Incidence of undifferentiated pneumonia of all causes was not different between groups.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Intravenous administration of the commercially available hyperimmune plasma was safe, and the product contained high concentrations of anti-R equiantibodies. However, within this limited foal population, the difference in incidence of pneumonia caused byR equiobserved between foals that received plasma and control foals was not significant. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:59–63)
Prevalence of fecal shedding of Salmonella spp in dairy herds
Authors: Huston Carla L. , Wittum Thomas E. , Love Brenda C. , Keen James E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To estimate prevalence ofSalmonellaspp in Ohio dairy farms and to identify potential risk factors for fecal shedding of salmonellae.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Sample Population—105 Ohio dairy farms.

Procedure—Individual fecal samples from all mature cows in study herds were tested forSalmonellaspp by use of standard bacteriologic culture procedures. Herds were identified as infected if at least 1 cow was sheddingSalmonellaspp. Information regarding herd characteristics, management practices, and health history were collected. Potential risk factors for herd-levelSalmonellainfection were identified.

Results—In 31% of the study herds (95% confidence interval, 22 to 40%), at least 1 cow was sheddingSalmonellaspp. Six percent of 7,776 fecal samples containedSalmonellaorganisms; prevalence within infected herds ranged from < 1 to 97%. Herd size, use of free stalls for lactating and nonlactating cows, and use of straw bedding in nonlactating cows were significantly associated with fecal shedding ofSalmonellaspp, as determined by use of univariate analysis . By use of multivariate analysis, large herds were more likely to be infected than smaller herds; however, no other factors were associated withSalmonellainfection after adjustment for herd size.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Subclinical shedding ofSalmonellaspp is common in Ohio dairy herds, although we could not identify specific interventions that may influence the prevalence ofSalmonellaspp on dairy farms. It appears that large herd size and intensive management may provide an environment conducive toSalmonellashedding and chronic dairy herd infection. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:645–649)
Prevalence of Mycobacterium bovis infection in cervids on privately owned ranches
Authors: Kaneene John B. , VanderKlok Michael , Bruning-Fann Colleen S. , Palmer Mitchell V. , Whipple Diana L. , Schmitt Stephen M. , Miller RoseAnn
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine prevalence of tuberculosis
caused by infection with Mycobacterium bovis in
cervids on privately owned ranches in northeastern
lower Michigan.

Design—Epidemiologic survey.

Animals—Cervids on 96 privately owned ranches.

Procedures—A combination of slaughter and skin
tuberculin testing was used to collect data. Infection
with M bovis was confirmed by use of standard
necropsy and bacteriologic culture techniques.

Results—Cervids with tuberculosis were detected
on 1 of the 96 ranches. The apparent prevalence of
tuberculosis in cervids from the 96 ranches was 1.1
cases/100 cervids (21 cases/1,867 cervids tested).
For the ranch with infected cervids, prevalence of
infection with M bovis was 12.1 cases/100 cervids
(21 cases/174 cervids tested). No obvious gross
lesions were seen in 8 of 21 white-tailed deer and 1
coyote with culture-confirmed M bovis infection.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The lack of
visible lesions in a substantial proportion of infected
animals should be taken into consideration in studies
involving detection and prevalence of tuberculosis. (J
Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;220:656–659)
Characterization of Clostridium difficile isolates from foals with diarrhea: 28 cases (1993–1997)
Authors: Magdesian K. Gary , Hirsh Dwight C. , Jang Spencer S. , Hansen Lori M. , Madigan John E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine molecular characteristics ofClostridium difficileisolates from foals with diarrhea and identify clinical abnormalities in affected foals.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—28 foals withC difficile-associated diarrhea.

Procedure—Toxigenicity, molecular fingerprinting, and antibiotic susceptibility patterns were determined. Information on signalment, clinical findings, results of clinicopathologic testing, whether antimicrobials had been administered prior to development of diarrhea, and outcome was obtained from the medical records.

Results—Twenty-three (82%) foals survived. Toxin A and B gene sequences were detected in isolates from 24 of 27 foals, whereas the toxin B gene alone was detected in the isolate from 1 foal. Results of an ELISA for toxin A were positive for fecal samples from only 8 of 20 (40%) foals. Ten of 23 (43%) isolates were resistant to metronidazole. Molecular fingerprinting revealed marked heterogeneity among isolates, except for the metronidazole-resistant isolates. Sixteen foals had tachypnea. Hematologic abnormalities were indicative of inflammation. Common serum biochemical abnormalities included metabolic acidosis, hyponatremia, hypocalcemia, azotemia, hypoproteinemia, hyperglycemia, and high enzyme activities. Passive transfer of maternal antibodies was adequate in all 12 foals evaluated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that a large percentage ofC difficileisolates from foals with diarrhea will have the toxin A and B gene sequences. Because of the possibility that isolates will be resistant to metronidazole, susceptibility testing is warranted.Clostridium difficileisolates from foals may have a substantial amount of molecular heterogeneity. Clinical and hematologic findings in affected foals are similar to those for foals with diarrhea caused by other pathogens. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:67–73)