bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Electromyographic Examination in Myogenic Disorders of 6 Horses
Authors: Wijnberg I.D. , Franssen H. , Jansen G.H. , Back W. , van der Kolk J.H.
Published: March 2010

Electromyographic needle examination (EMG), including the semiautomatic quantitative analysis of motor unit action potential (MUAP), is an important diagnostic tool for myopathy in humans. The diagnostic possibilities of this technique have not been fully explored in horses; however, recent studies have shown that MUAP analysis can be performed in conscious horses. To determine the diagnostic possibilities of EMG in horses, we compared the EMG results of the subclavian muscle, the triceps, and the lateral vastus muscle in 6 equine patients thought to have myogenic disorders with those in 7 normal control horses. The EMG results were compared with the results of the histopathologic examination of the lateral vastus muscle in patients and controls. Histopathologic examination showed muscle disease in 3 patients. In the patient group, several types of abnormal spontaneous activities were observed (mainly fibrillation potentials and positive sharp waves), and the MUAPs of the patient group had a markedly shorter duration and lower amplitude than those of the control group. In the subclavian muscle, triceps, and lateral vastus muscle of affected horses, the MUAP duration was 5.0 ± 0.4 (mean ± SD), 3.9 ± 0.3, and 4.7 ± 1.1 milliseconds, respectively. The MUAP amplitude was 217 ± 55, 150 ± 74, and 180 ± 54 MV; the number of phases was 2.4 ± 0.2, 2.5 ± 0.3, and 2.3 ± 0.1; and the number of turns was 2.6 ± 0.2, 2.4 ± 0.2, and 2.8 ± 0.5, respectively. In conclusion, it appears that the EMG may be a more sensitive method than other techniques for examining muscle biopsies for diagnosis of early‐stage myopathy in horses.
Relationship of Disease Progression and Plasma Histamine Concentrations in 11 Dogs with Mast Cell Tumors
Authors: Ishiguro Taketo , Kadosawa Tsuyoshi , Takagi Satoshi , Kim Gonhyung , Ohsaki Tomohiro , Bosnakovski Darko , Okumura Masahiro , Fujinaga Toru
Published: March 2010

Plasma histamine concentrations (PHCs) were measured serially over 9 months or until death in 11 dogs with mast cell tumors (MCTs). Eight dogs had grossly visible disease and the other 3 dogs had microscopic disease. Initial PHCs in the dogs with gross disease were significantly higher than PHCs in healthy dogs (median, 0.73 ng/mL and 0.19 ng/mL respectively; P & lt;009), whereas initial PHCs in dogs with microscopic disease showed no difference from controls. Seven dogs subsequently had progressive increases in PHC, and developed hyperhistaminemia (median, 14.0 ng/mL; range, 5.11–30.1 ng/mL). These 7 dogs died from MCTs, and 1 had general weakness with rapid lysis of a large tumor burden after radiation therapy. PHCs of the other 4 dogs were less than 1 ng/mL during the study. These 4 dogs were still alive with adequate control of the tumor at the conclusion of the study. Four of the 11 dogs initially had gastrointestinal (GI) signs, which abated soon after administration of histamine‐2 (H‐2) blockers. No significant difference was found between PHCs in dogs with GI signs and those without GI signs (median, 0.86 ng/mL and 0.35 ng/mL, respectively). Thereafter, 7 dogs had serious GI complications for which H‐2 blocker therapy was ineffective. PHCs in these 7 dogs were extremely high (median, 12.2 ng/mL; range, 3.42‐30.1 ng/mL). Results of this study demonstrated that PHC was one factor related to disease progression, and indicated that marked hyperhistaminemia was associated with the GI signs refractory to H‐2 blocker therapy in dogs with MCTs.
Carboplatin and Doxorubicin Combination Chemotherapy for the Treatment of Appendicular Osteosarcoma in the Dog
Authors: Bailey Dennis , Erb Hollis , Williams Laurel , Ruslander David , Hauck Marlene
Published: March 2010

Twenty‐four client‐owned dogs with histologically diagnosed appendicular osteosarcoma (OSA) and no evidence of gross metastatic disease were treated with amputation or limb salvage followed by combination chemotherapy consisting of carboplatin (175 mg/ m2IV, day 1) and doxorubicin (15 mg/m2IV, day 2) given on a 21‐day cycle for a maximum of 4 cycles. Hematologic and gastrointestinal adverse effects were graded according to National Cancer Institute guidelines. Thoracic radiographs were obtained before the 3rd chemotherapy cycle and then every 2 months. Median disease‐free interval was 195 days (95% confidence interval 111–228 days) and median survival was 235 days (95% confidence interval 150–283 days). Two patients required dose reductions: 1 for grade 3 thrombocytopenia and 1 for grade 3 adverse gastrointestinal effects. Patients with a longer duration of clinical signs before definitive diagnosis and surgery (greater than 30 days) were more likely to develop progressive disease and to die or be euthanized because of progressive disease on any day; hazard ratios were 3.0 (P= .02) and 3.7 (P= .02), respectively. In conclusion, although this combination chemotherapy protocol was well tolerated, it did not provide any improvement over historical single‐agent protocols.
Gastric Ulcers in Standardbred Racehorses: Prevalence, Lesion Description, and Risk Factors
Authors: Dionne Rachel M. , Vrins Andre , Doucet Michele Y. , Pare Julie
Published: March 2010

This study was performed to estimate the prevalence of gastric ulcers in Standardbred racehorses, to describe the lesion score and location, and to identify potential risk factors. Two hundred seventy‐five (275) Standardbred horses from 5 training centers and 2 racetracks in Quebec, Canada, were studied. Historical data for the 2 months before examination were recorded for each horse, and the presence of gastric ulcers was determined by gastroscopy. A previously reported scoring system that used grades 0–3 for gastric lesions was used. Overall, 121 horses (44.0%; 95% CI, 38.1–50.1%) had gastric ulcers. The prevalence of gastric ulcers was significantly higher(P< .0001) in actively racing horses (63.3%; 95% CI, 54.7–71.2%) than in horses at rest. Multivariate analysis defined that horses in racing (OR = 9.29; 95% CI, 3.55‐24.3) were significantly more likely to have gastric ulcers than horses at rest and that trotters (OR = 2.23; 95% CI, 1.28‐3.86) were more likely to have gastric ulcers than pacers. The number of lesion sites(P <.0001) and poor body condition (P<0001) were significantly associated with lesion scores. Gastric ulcers are highly prevalent in Standardbred racehorses. Furthermore, actively racing horses and trotters are more likely to have gastric ulcers. Also, poor body condition in Standardbred racehorses may be an indication that gastric ulcers are present and that lesion scores are high. The cause‐and‐effect relationship between poor body condition and the presence of gastric ulcers is unclear.
The Effect of Dosing Interval on the Efficacy of Misoprostol in the Prevention of Aspirin‐Induced Gastric Injury
Authors: Ward Deborah M. , Leib Michael S. , Johnston Spencer A. , Marini Michele
Published: March 2010

The effect of twice‐daily administration of misoprostol on aspirin‐induced gastric injury was evaluated. Twenty‐four random‐source dogs were divided into groups that received aspirin and misoprostol as follows: group I, aspirin 25 mg/kg PO q8h and placebo PO q8h; group II, aspirin 25 mg/kg PO q8h and misoprostol 3 μg/kg PO q8h; group III, aspirin 25 mg/kg PO q8h, misoprostol 3 μg/kg PO q12h, and placebo PO q24h; and group IV, aspirin 25 mg/kg PO q8h, misoprostol 3 μg/kg PO q24h, and placebo PO q12h for 28 days. Gastroscopy was performed on days — 9, 5, 14, and 28. Visible lesions were scored on a scale of 1 (mucosal hemorrhage) to 11 (perforating ulcer). No difference in total score was identified between groups I and IV on any day. Median total scores for groups II and III were significantly (P≤ .05) lower compared to groups I and IV on day 5. Group III had a significantly lower score (P≤ .05) than groups I, II, and IV on day 28. This study suggests that misoprostol 3 μg/kg PO q12h is as effective as misoprostol 3 μg/kg PO q8h in preventing aspirin‐induced gastric injury in this model. However, misoprostol 3 (μg/ kg PO q8h was less effective in preventing aspirin‐induced gastric injury on days 14 and 28 than in previous studies. No difference among numbers of dog‐days of vomiting, diarrhea, or anorexia was detected among groups.
Percutaneous Ultrasound‐Guided Cholecystocentesis in Healthy Cats
Authors: Savary‐Bataille Karine C.M. , Bunch Susan E. , Spaulding Kathy A. , Jackson Mark W. , Law J. Mac , Stebbins Marty E.
Published: March 2010

Percutaneous ultrasound‐guided cholecystocentesis (PUC) is a minimally invasive technique for bile collection that is used successfully in human patients with cholecystitis. Its use in veterinary medicine for evaluation of hepatobiliary disorders has been limited because of the perceived unacceptable risk of bile peritonitis. An experimental study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PUC, to collect data on bile cytology and bacteriologic culture, and to attempt to isolateHelicobacterspp. from the bile of healthy cats. In fasted and sedated cats, PUC was performed with a 22‐gauge 1.5‐in. (3.81 cm) needle with an attached 12‐mL syringe via a right‐sided transhepatic approach (n = 1) or into the fundus of the gallbladder (n = 11) via a right ventral abdominal approach. An attempt was made to completely empty the gallbladder. A small amount of abdominal effusion, consistent with bile or blood, was seen ultrasonographically immediately after aspiration in the 1st cat. Ultrasonographic complications with the 2nd technique were not observed in the remaining 11 cats. Decreased appetite and evidence of mild abdominal pain were detected in 4 cats within 2 days after PUC. The mean neutrophil count increased 2 days after PUC (P< .01) but remained within the reference range. The bile was acellular in 11 of 12 cats, and aerobic, anaerobic, andHelicobacterspp. cultures yielded no growth in 12 of 12 cats. There were no remarkable gross or histologic lesions of abdominal organs at the postmortem examination (8 cats) performed 7–8 days after the procedure. PUC appears to be a safe and technically simple procedure. Further studies are warranted to determine the use and safety of PUC in cats with hepatobiliary diseases.
Serum Nitrate and Nitrite in Dogs with Spontaneous Cardiac Disease
Authors: de Laforcade Armelle M. , Freeman Lisa M. , Rush John E.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine whether nitric oxide (NO) concentrations are high in dogs with chronic valvular disease (CVD) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) compared to healthy controls and to determine whether NO concentrations are correlated with type of cardiac disease, disease severity, medical therapy, or serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin‐1 (IL‐1). Blood was collected from 32 dogs with DCM, from 10 dogs with CVD, and from 10 healthy controls. Indirect determination of NO concentrations was performed by a commercial photoabsorbance assay that uses a Greiss reagent to measure the concentration of nitrite and nitrate (NN), end products of NO metabolism. TNF and IL‐1 activities were measured by bioassay. Mean NN concentrations were significantly higher in dogs with heart disease (median, 4.57 |juM; range, 0.00–31.05 |juM) than in controls (median, 0.00 |juM; range, 0.00–6.16 |juM; P= .04). NN concentrations in dogs with cardiac disease were not correlated with type or severity of cardiac disease, medication type, or TNF and IL‐1 concentrations. NN concentrations were inversely correlated with fractional shortening. The results of this study suggest that metabolites of NO are increased in some dogs with cardiac disease, but these increases appear to be independent of disease severity, TNF and IL‐1 concentrations, and type of pharmacologic intervention.
An Assessment of the Terminology Used by Diplomates and Students to Describe the Character of Equine Mitral and Aortic Valve Regurgitant Murmurs: Correlations with the Physical Properties of the Sounds
Authors: Naylor Jonathan M. , Wolker Ryan E. , Pharr John W.
Published: March 2010

Twenty students and 16 diplomates listened to 7 recordings made from 7 horses with either aortic (n = 3) or mitral valve (n = 4) regurgitant murmurs. A total of 30 different terms were used to describe the character of these murmurs. However, only 4 terms were used in a repeatable and consistent manner. Most people described the character of a given mitral or aortic valve murmur with 1 or 2 terms. Diplomates drew from a pool of terms that was about half the size of that used by students–.1 ±2.0 terms for diplomats (mean ±1 SD) versus 13.1 ±1.8 terms for students (P < .001). Only blowing, honking, buzzing, and musical were markedly associated with the recording played. Frequency analysis of the murmurs allowed them to be classified as containing harmonics (n = 4) or not containing harmonics (n = 3). Blowing was used to describe murmurs without harmonics on 39 of 48 occasions and corresponds to the term noisy used in some older descriptions of equine murmurs. Honking, musical, and buzzing were markedly associated with murmurs that contained harmonics; these terms were used 23, 13, and 12 of a possible 64 times, respectively. The frequency of buzzing and honking murmurs (72.7 ±9.3 and 88.4 ±46.3 Hz, respectively) was markedly lower than that of musical murmurs (156.8 ±81.1 Hz) (all P values <.01). Honking murmurs (0.392 ±0.092 seconds) were shorter than those described as buzzing or musical (0.496 ±0.205 and 0.504 ±0.116 seconds, respectively). The data suggest that the terminology for the character of aortic and mitral regurgitant murmurs should be restricted to 4 terms: blowing, honking, buzzing, and musical. Honking, buzzing, and musical describe murmurs with a peak dominant frequency and harmonics; blowing describes murmurs without a peak frequency. Effective communication could be enhanced by playing examples of reference sounds when these terms are taught so that nomenclature is used more uniformly. Key words: Cardiac; Heart; Learning; Meaning.
Serum IgM Concentrations in Normal, Fit Horses and Horses with Lymphoma or Other Medical Conditions
Authors: Perkins G.A. , Nydam D.V. , Flaminio M.J.B.F. , Ainsworth D.M.
Published: March 2010

The purposes of this study were to (1) prospectively establish serum IgM and IgG concentrations in normal, fit, adult horses over time and (2) determine the accuracy of serum IgM concentrations for diagnosing lymphoma. Serial IgM and IgG concentrations were measured with a radial immunodiffusion assay in 25 regularly exercised horses at 6‐week intervals. Horses had serum IgM concentrations ranging from 50 to 242 mg/dL over 5 months, with 20% of horses having IgM ≤ 60 mg/dL. The normal range for IgM in fit horses should be considered 103 ± 40 mg/dL and a cut‐point for an IgM deficiency, ≤23 mg/dL. IgG concentrations ranged from 1,372 to 3,032 mg/dL. Retrospectively, medical records of adult horses (n = 103) admitted to the Cornell University Hospital for Animals for which serum IgM was measured were examined. Horses were categorized as “lymphoma negative” (n = 34) or “lymphoma positive” (n = 18). The sensitivity and specificity of a serum IgM concentration (≤60 mg/dL) for detecting equine lymphoma was 50 and 35%, respectively. At the new cut‐point (≤23 mg/dL), the sensitivity was low at 28% and the specificity improved to 88%. The negative predictive values at various population prevalences indicate that a horse with a high serum IgM (>23 mg/dL) is unlikely to have lymphoma, whereas the positive predictive value (70%) does not allow for reliable determination of lymphoma in a horse with serum IgM ≤ 23 mg/dL. Therefore, serum IgM concentrations should not be used as a screening test for equine lymphoma.
Prognosis in Equine Medical and Surgical Colic
Authors: van der Linden Marianne A. , Laffont Céline M. , van Oldruitenborgh‐Oosterbaan Marianne M. Sloet
Published: March 2010

A retrospective study was performed on 649 horses admitted to the Clinic of Equine Internal Medicine (Utrecht University) for gastrointestinal colic. The aim of this study was to provide a better guideline for determining prognosis in horses with colic. Short‐ and long‐term survival were evaluated, and Cox regression analysis was performed to identify the clinical and clinico‐pathologic variables usable to predict survival. Intestinal displacements and strangulations were the most frequently diagnosed causes of colic. Regarding the surgically treated horses, 54% were discharged and 88% of these were still alive after 1 year. In comparison, 85% of medically treated patients were discharged and 93% were still alive after 1 year. Only 4.4% of all long‐term survivors did not return to the expected level of performance, and 32% suffered from recurrent colic. Duration of colic signs, heart rate, intestinal motility, skin tenting, level of pain, and gross appearance of peritoneal fluid were shown to be significantly associated with survival. White blood cell count, packed cell volume, blood pH, and color of the mucous membranes did not show any prognostic significance. Thus, clinical variables appeared to be the most relevant predictors of the outcome of gastrointestinal colic.
A Review of Methods for Assessment of the Rate of Gastric Emptying in the Dog and Cat: 1898–2002
Authors: Wyse C.A. , McLellan J. , Dickie A.M. , Sutton D.G.M. , Preston T. , Yam P.S.
Published: March 2010

Gastric emptying is the process by which food is delivered to the small intestine at a rate and in a form that optimizes intestinal absorption of nutrients. The rate of gastric emptying is subject to alteration by physiological, pharmacological, and pathological conditions. Gastric emptying of solids is of greater clinical significance because disordered gastric emptying rarely is detectable in the liquid phase. Imaging techniques have the disadvantage of requiring restraint of the animal and access to expensive equipment. Radiographic methods require administration of test meals that are not similar to food. Scintigraphy is the gold standard method for assessment of gastric emptying but requires administration of a radioisotope. Magnetic resonance imaging has not yet been applied for assessment of gastric emptying in small animals. Ultrasonography is a potentially useful, but subjective, method for assessment of gastric emptying in dogs. Gastric tracer methods require insertion of gastric or intestinal cannulae and are rarely applied outside of the research laboratory. The paracetamol absorption test has been applied for assessment of liquid phase gastric emptying in the dog, but requires IV cannulation. The gastric emptying breath test is a noninvasive method for assessment of gastric emptying that has been applied in dogs and cats. This method can be carried out away from the veterinary hospital, but the effects of physiological and pathological abnormalities on the test are not known. Advances in technology will facilitate the development of reliable methods for assessment of gastric emptying in small animals.
Intermittent Bolus Injection versus Continuous Infusion of Furosemide in Normal Adult Greyhound Dogs
Authors: Adin Darcy B. , Taylor Aaron W. , Hill Richard C. , Scott Karen C. , Martin Frank G.
Published: March 2010

Several studies in human subjects have demonstrated greater diuresis with constant rate infusion (CRI) furosemide than intermittent bolus (IB) furosemide. This study was conducted to compare the diuretic efficacy of the same total dose of IB furosemide and CRI furosemide in 6 healthy, adult Greyhound dogs in a randomized crossover design with a 2‐week washout period between treatments. For IB administration, dogs received 3 mg/kg at 0 and 4 hours. For CRI administration, dogs received a 0.66 mg/kg loading dose followed by 0.66 mg/kg/h over 8 hours. The same volume of fluid was administered for both methods. Urine output was quantified hourly. Urine electrolyte concentrations, urine specific gravity (USG), packed cell volume (PCV), total protein (TP), serum electrolyte concentrations, total carbon dioxide (TCO2), serum creatinine (sCr), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were determined every 2 hours. Urine production and water intake were greater (P≤ 0.05) for CRI than IB. Urine sodium and calcium losses were greater (P < 0.05) and urine potassium loss was less (P= 0.03) for CRI than IB, but there was no evidence of a difference between methods for urine magnesium and chloride losses. Serum chloride concentration was less (P < 0.001), sCr concentration greater (P = 0.04), TP greater (P = 0.01), and PCV greater (P = 0.003) for CRI than IB. No differences in USG, TCO2, BUN, or serum potassium, sodium, and magnesium concentrations were detected between methods. The same total dose of CRI furosemide resulted in more diuresis, natriuresis, and calciuresis and less kaliuresis than IB furosemide in these normal Greyhound dogs over 8 hours, suggesting that furosemide is a more effective diuretic when administered by CRI than by IB.
Cisplatin and Doxorubicin Toxicosis in Dogs with Osteosarcoma
Authors: DeRegis Carol J. , Moore Antony S. , Rand William M. , Berg John
Published: March 2010

Toxicosis associated with doxorubicin and cisplatin administration starting either 2 or 10 days after limb amputation for osteosarcoma was examined retrospectively in dogs. The purpose was to determine whether dosage and timing of chemotherapy affected rates of toxicosis after administration of the 1st treatment. Records of 100 dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma without evidence of metastases or concurrent disease were examined. Dogs received chemotherapy with doxorubicin and cisplatin every 3 weeks for 3 treatments starting 2 days (n = 51) or 10 days (n = 49) after amputation. The dosage of cisplatin was 60 mg/m2and was given with 6‐hour saline diuresis and butorphanol. Doxorubicin was given at 12.5–25 mg/m2during fluid administration. Hematologic data were collected before and weekly after treatment. Client interviews were conducted to assess gastrointestinal toxicosis during the interval between treatments. The reported toxicoses were graded on a scale of 0 to 4. Dogs receiving 25 mg/m2of doxorubicin experienced greater rates of grade 4 toxicity (67%; n = 6) than dogs in groups receiving 12.5–20 mg/m2of doxorubicin (≤25%; n = 94,P= .03). Dogs in the Day 2 group experienced greater rates (35%) of grade 4 toxicity than dogs in the Day 10 group (12%,P= .007). We concluded that chemotherapy administered 2 days after surgery produced an unacceptable level of toxicoses, except at greatly reduced dosages, and that even with a delay of treatment, 25 mg/m2of doxorubicin, when given in combination with cisplatin at 60 mg/m2, was too toxic for routine use.
Botulism in Foals Less Than 6 Months of Age: 30 Cases (1989–2002)
Authors: Wilkins Pamela A. , Palmer Jonathan E.
Published: March 2010

Botulism has been recognized as a clinical entity in foals since the 1960s. Also known as “Shaker foal” disease, the toxicoinfectious form of botulism affects foals, with the highest incidence in the United States seen in Kentucky and the mid‐Atlantic region. The disease is characterized by progressive muscular weakness caused by the action of botulism neurotoxin at cholinergic neuromuscular junctions. Increased number of episodes and duration of recumbency, muscular trembling, and dysphagia are seen in affected foals. Left untreated, the disease can be rapidly fatal, with death occurring secondary to respiratory muscle paralysis within 24 to 72 hours of the onset of clinical signs. Very mildly affected foals can survive with minimal treatment. Despite advances made in treatment of these foals, including administration of botulism antitoxin early in the course of the disease, there is still an impression that the disease carries a high mortality rate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcome in 30 foals <6 months of age diagnosed with botulism between 1989 and 2002 at the George D. Widener Large Animal Hospital, New Bolton Center. Two foals were euthanized for economic reasons early in the disease course, and 1 died while being treated. Survival of treated cases was greater than 96%. Approximately 50% of the cases required oxygen therapy, whereas 30% required mechanical ventilation. All foals, excepting 1 mildly affected foal, received botulism antitoxin. Mean duration of hospitalization was 14 days. With appropriate treatment, foals with botulism have a high survival rate.
Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Intranasal Tumors in 3 Dogs and 1 Cat
Authors: Lucroy Michael D. , Long Kevin R. , Blaik Margaret A. , Higbee Russell G. , Ridgway Tisha D.
Published: March 2010

Three dogs and 1 cat with intranasal tumors were treated with pyropheophorbide‐a‐hexyl ether‐based photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT was well tolerated by all the animals, and no adverse effects from photosensitizer injection, such as cutaneous photosensiti‐zation, were observed. Facial swelling was observed in all animals after each PDT treatment but resolved spontaneously within 72 hours after treatment. All animals had a decrease in severity of epistaxis, frequency of sneezing, and amount of nasal discharge after PDT. Clinical signs were controlled for variable time, although long‐term responses were comparable with radiation therapy in 2 animals. This small case series demonstrates another application for PDT in veterinary medicine. On the basis of these findings, further studies are warranted to define the role of PDT in the management of intranasal tumors in dogs and cats.
The Basic Biology of Malignant Melanoma: Molecular Mechanisms of Disease Progression and Comparative Aspects
Authors: Sulaimon Shola S. , Kitchell Barbara E.
Published: March 2010

Malignant melanoma (MM) is a life‐threatening disease characterized by a highly aggressive biologic behavior in both humans and dogs. Despite improvements in diagnosis and patient care, most deaths from MM are due to metastases that are resistant to conventional treatment modalities. To ultimately reduce the mortality associated with metastatic disease, it is necessary to better define the fundamental molecular mechanisms of malignant tumor progression. The progression of disease is a consequence of the complex interactions between malignantly transformed cells and host factors. Characterization of the stages of tumor progression and the changes occurring in highly malignant cells is important for the development of effective treatment regimens. The dys‐regulated molecular mechanisms of transformed melanocytes are presently being characterized. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the molecular phases in the progression of MM, which include genetic instability, dysregulated proliferation of melanocytes, increased invasion and metastasis, and angiogenesis.
Effect of Early Enteral Nutrition on Intestinal Permeability, Intestinal Protein Loss, and Outcome in Dogs with Severe Parvoviral Enteritis
Authors: Mohr Albert J. , Leisewitz Andrew L. , Jacobson Linda S. , Steiner Jörg M. , Ruaux Craig G. , Williams David A.
Published: March 2010

A randomized, controlled clinical trial investigated the effect of early enteral nutrition (EN) on intestinal permeability, intestinal protein loss, and outcome in parvoviral enteritis. Dogs were randomized into 2 groups: 15 dogs received no food until vomiting had ceased for 12 hours (mean 50 hours after admission; NPO group), and 15 dogs received early EN by nasoesophageal tube from 12 hours after admission (EEN group). All other treatments were identical. Intestinal permeability was assessed by 6‐hour urinary lactulose (L) and rhamnose (R) recoveries (%L, %R) and L/R recovery ratios. Intestinal protein loss was quantified by fecal α1‐proteinase inhibitor concentrations (α1‐PI). Median time to normalization of demeanor, appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea was 1 day shorter for the EEN group for each variable. Body weight increased insignificantly from admission in the NPO group (day 3: 2.5±2.8% day 6: 4.3±2.3% mean ± SE), whereas the EEN group exhibited significant weight gain (day 3: 8.1±2.7% day 6: 9.7 ± 2.1%). Mean urinary %L was increased, %R reduced, and L/R recovery ratios increased compared to reference values throughout the study for both groups. Percent lactulose recovery decreased in the EEN group (admission: 22.6±8.0% day 6: 17.9 ± 2.3%) and increased in the NPO group (admission: 11.0±2.6% day 6: 22.5 ± 4.6%,P= .035). Fecal α1‐PI was above reference values in both groups and declined progressively. No significant differences occurred for %R, L/R ratios, or α1‐PI between groups. Thirteen NPO dogs and all EEN dogs survived (P= .48). The EEN group showed earlier clinical improvement and significant weight gain. The significantly decreased %L in the EEN versus NPO group might reflect improved gut barrier function, which could limit bacterial or endotoxin translocation.
Initial and Long‐Term Efficacy of a Lipid Emulsion of Amphotericin B Desoxycholate in the Management of Canine Leishmaniasis
Authors: Cortadellas Oscar
Published: March 2010

Sixteen dogs in which canine leishmaniasis (CL) was diagnosed by positive identification ofLeishmaniaamastigotes in bone marrow samples were treated with a mixture of amphotericin B (AmB) desoxycholate in soybean oil. To prevent the toxicity of AmB, dogs were pretreated with saline (50 mL/kg) and mannitol (2 g/kg). Dogs were treated twice weekly with an increasing dosage of amphotericin (0.8–2.5 mg/kg) for between 8 and 10 sessions. Transient adverse effects (anorexia, vomiting, or both) appeared in 81% of the dogs during therapy. At the end of the course, all dogs were clinically cured, with no parasites observed in bone marrow smears. Six of the 16 dogs (38%) were positive by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in bone marrow samples at some stage of their follow‐up, but only 2 were positive at the first test after treatment, which was performed within 5 months after the end of the therapy. The other 4 dogs were initially negative and became PCR‐positive at subsequent examinations. Three of these 6 dogs also experienced a clinical relapse. Four dogs had at least 3 consecutive negative PCR tests during a minimum period of 18 months and were clinically cured. The results of the present study indicate that despite having a high initial effectiveness in the treatment of CL, relapses can occur with the described protocol. Also, a single negative PCR result in a recently treated dog cannot be interpreted as a complete cure.
Outbreak of Clostridium difficile‐Associated Disease in a Small Animal Veterinary Teaching Hospital
Authors: Weese J.S. , Armstrong J.
Published: March 2010

An apparent outbreak of enteric disease occurred in dogs and cats at a veterinary teaching hospital. Clostridium difficile Toxin A or B or both were identified in 1 or more fecal samples from 48 of 93 (52%) dogs over a 5‐month period, 30 of which were identified in the 1st 26 days, after which strict infection control measures, including closure to elective cases, were implemented. Affected animals included in‐patients, out‐patients that were housed temporarily in the wards, and resident blood donor dogs. Infection control measures, including partial depopulation, isolation, hospital and yard cleaning, and barrier precautions, were instituted, after which, the incidence of nosocomial diarrhea decreased from 19 cases per 1,000 admissions to 2.5 cases per 1,000 admissions (P <0.001)
Changes in Proportion of Canine Urinary Calculi Composed of Calcium Oxalate or Struvite in Specimens Analyzed from 1981 through 2001
Authors: Ling Gerald V. , Thurmond Mark C. , Choi Young K. , Franti Charles E. , Ruby Annette L. , Johnson Deedra L.
Published: March 2010

The objective of this report was to characterize 20‐year changes in proportion of calcium oxalate (CaOx) calculi and struvite calculi in dogs, and associations with breed, age, and sex. In this retrospective study, results of analysis of urinary calculi from dogs were reviewed for specimens received between July 1, 1981, and December 31, 2001. Breed, sex, age, year of submission of the specimen, and mineral type(s) were analyzed statistically. CaOx or Struvite or both were contained in 18,966 of 20,884 (91%) specimens. For both sexes, a 20‐year statistically significant increase was observed in the proportion of calculus specimens that contained CaOx. The increase in this proportion was greater in females (1% to 31%) than in males (18% to 82%). From 1998 to 2001, when proportions may have plateaued, the odds of specimens containing CaOx were markedly higher in 18 breeds, markedly lower in 5 breeds, and not significantly different in 13 breeds compared with crossbreds. For both sexes, a 20‐year statistically significant decrease was observed in the proportion of calculus specimens that contained struvite. This decrease in proportion was greater for males (79–16%) than for females (97–68%). From 1998 to 2001, when proportions plateaued, the odds of calculi containing struvite were markedly lower in 20 breeds, markedly higher in 1 breed, and not significantly different in 15 breeds when compared with crossbreds. Breed, age, and sex were associated statistically with CaOx or struvite urolithiasis. In conclusion, there appears to have been a long‐term increase in the proportion of specimens of canine urinary calculi that contain CaOx as well as a long‐term decrease in the proportion of specimens of calculi that contain struvite for both male and female dogs. The rate of change appeared to begin leveling off in the period 1998 to 2001. The recent proportion of dogs with either CaOx‐ or struvite‐associated urolithiasis may depend on breed, age, and sex, and on interactions among these 3 factors.
Risk Factors and Prognostic Variables for Survival of Foals with Radiographic Evidence of Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Bedenice D. , Heuwieser W. , Solano M. , Rand W. , Paradis M.R.
Published: March 2010

The medical records of 163 neonatal foals that had thoracic radiographs taken within 48 hours of admission to a referral hospital were reviewed. The objectives of this study were (1) to identify risk factors for the development of thoracic radiographic changes and (2) to identify prognostic indicators for survival in foals with radiographic evidence of pulmonary disease. Failure of transfer of passive immunity (IgG concentration > 400 mg/dL) was the only risk factor for radiographic evidence of respiratory disease identified by multivariate analysis. Hypoxemic patients (PaO2 ± 60 mm Hg) were 4.9 times more likely to reveal radiographic abnormalities in a subset of foals for which arterial blood gas results were available. Foals with a serum creatinine concentration >1.7 mg/dL upon presentation, dyspnea, and a history of dystocia were significantly more likely to die based on the multivariate statistical outcome analysis. An anion gap >20 mEq/dL was strongly associated with nonsurvival in a subset of foals with arterial blood gas results. These hematologic and biochemical variables can be readily obtained during the initial evaluation of sick foals. The presence of a high anion gap appeared to have the greatest clinical impact and may be a useful prognostic indicator in foals with radiographic evidence of respiratory disease. In contrast, the majority of physical examination variables, including evaluation of tachypnea, abnormal respiratory sounds, fever, weakness, and milk reflux from the nares, which are usually obtained during the general respiratory evaluation of foals, were unrelated to outcome.
The Clinical Neurology of Scrapie in Irish Sheep
Authors: Healy Anne M. , Weavers Edwin , McElroy Maire , Gomez‐Parada Mercedes , Collins J. Dan , O'Doherty Elaine , Sweeney Torres , Doherty Michael L.
Published: March 2010

One hundred twenty‐nine sheep with scrapie were identified from 20 flocks in which scrapie previously had been confirmed. Physical and neurologic examinations were performed on all animals. Videotape recordings were made and reviewed to assess gait. These procedures were repeated in 46 sheep at 2‐ to 3‐week intervals until recumbency or inappetence necessitated euthanasia. Confirmation of scrapie was made by histopathologic and immunohistochemical examinations of brain tissue. The clinical signs most frequently recorded in the 129 animals on initial presentation were hindlimb ataxia (71%), head tremor (61%), altered mental status (57%), positive nibble reflex (51%), crouching posture (51%), teeth grinding (44%), low head carriage (38%), body condition score (BCS) <1.5 (38%), and conscious proprioceptive deficits of the hindlimbs (36%). Progression of the disease was characterized by an increase in the frequency and severity of ataxia, weakness and hypermetria of the hindlimbs, a decreasing sway response, a decreasing extensor response to thoracolumbar pressure, and a reduction in the BCS. No effect of farm of origin on the clinical presentation could be shown. The presence of a nibble reflex was strongly associated(P< .0005) with prion protein (PrP) genotypes AA136RR154QH171and AA136RR154QQ171. Logistic regression modeling of groups with associated clinical signs showed that animals with a crouching posture (odds ratio [OR], 20.036) and an abnormal yield to thoracolumbar pressure (OR, 7.117) were at increased risk of ataxia. Pruritus (OR, 0.168) was negatively associated with ataxia. Pruritus (OR, 4.974) and teeth grinding (OR, 4.279) were associated with a positive nibble reflex.
Anion Gap Correlates with Serum D‐ and DL‐Lactate Concentration in Diarrheic Neonatal Calves
Authors: Ewaschuk Julia B. , Naylor Jonathan M. , Zello Gordon A.
Published: March 2010

The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum D‐ and L‐lactate concentrations, and anion gap (AG) in neonatal calves. The association of AG with lactic acidosis in diarrheic calves has only been investigated by measurement of L‐lactate in calves with experimentally induced diarrhea. D‐lactate has recently been reported to be present in high concentrations in the serum of some diarrheic neonatal calves. The contribution of this acid to AG is not reported. The relationship between AG and L‐ and D‐lactate concentrations was examined in 24 healthy calves and 52 calves with naturally occurring infectious diarrhea with metabolic acidosis. AG was calculated as [Na++ K+] – [Cl‐ + HCO3‐]. D‐ and L‐lactate were quantified using high‐performance liquid chromatography. There was no correlation between L‐lactate and AG, contrary to previous reports in the literature. Moderate correlations between D‐lactate concentration and AG (r = .74, P < .0001), and between DL‐lactate and AG (r = .77), P <0001) were detected. No differences existed due to the age or sex of the calf. This study indicates that AG provides information on the nature of acidosis in the diarrheic, neonatal calf and reinforces the importance of investigating clinical, in addition to experimental, populations.
Evaluation of the Oral Antihyperglycemic Drug Metformin in Normal and Diabetic Cats
Authors: Nelson Richard , Spann Dennis , Elliott Denise , Brondos Angela , Vulliet Richard
Published: March 2010

Metformin is an oral antidiabetic drug that improves control of glycemia primarily by inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis. This study evaluated the usefulness of metformin for the treatment of diabetes mellitus in cats. The study consisted of 3 phases. Phase 1 was a dose‐finding study performed in healthy cats that were randomly administered varying doses of metformin to determine the approximate dose that would yield plasma concentrations known to be effective in humans. Phase 2 was a 3‐week safety study performed in healthy cats to determine if cats could tolerate the daily oral dose and administration protocol identified during phase 1. Phase 3 was a clinical trial evaluating the clinical response of diabetic cats to oral metformin treatment. Five cats with newly diagnosed, naturally acquired diabetes mellitus were enrolled in phase 3. Plasma metformin concentrations in the therapeutic range of 0.5‐2 |xg/mL were achieved with doses of 50 mg/cat PO q12h without dramatic drug accumulation. Intermittent lethargy, inappetence, vomiting, and weight loss were identified, and the results of the CBC, serum biochemical analysis, plasma lactate concentration, and urinalysis remained within the reference range during phase 2 of the study. During phase 3, control of glycemia was achieved in 1 of 5 diabetic cats after 8 weeks of metformin treatment; 3 cats failed to respond to metformin, and treatment with insulin was initiated after 7–8 weeks of metformin treatment; 1 cat died unexpectedly 11 days after starting metformin treatment. The cause of death was not determined. The serum insulin concentration was within or greater than the reference range in the responder diabetic cat and was undetectable or at the low end of the reference range in the nonresponder diabetic cats. The results of this study suggest that metformin is beneficial only in those diabetic cats with detectable concentrations of insulin at the time metformin treatment is initiated.
Antinuclear Antibodies Can Be Detected in Dog Sera Reactive to Bartonella vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii, Ehrlichia canis, or Leishmania infantum Antigens
Authors: Smith Brian E. , Tompkins Mary B. , Breitschwerdt Edward B.
Published: March 2010

The presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) is used to support a clinical diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in dogs. However, clinicians must interpret the detection of ANAs with caution, particularly in light of increasing evidence that dogs with known bacterial and protozoal infections can have high ANA titers. Retrospectively, medical records were reviewed for all dogs that were concurrently tested for antinuclear antigens andBartonella vinsonii(berkhoffii),Ehrlichia canis, orRickettsia rickettsiiantigens between 1990 and 2000. When analyzed on the basis of reactivity to a specific infectious agent, 75% of theB vinsonii(berkhoffii) seroreactors, 16.7% of theE canisseroreactors, and 0% of theR rickettsiiseroreactors had concurrent ANAs. Subsequent prospective testing did not detect ANAs in convalescent sera from dogs experimentally infected withB vinsonii(berkhoffii),E canis, orR rickettsii.However, 10–20%B vinsonii(berkhoffii),E canis, orLeishmania infantumreactive sera from naturally infected dogs contained ANAs. In addition, 45% of sera from dogs that are reactive to multiple vectorborne organisms were more likely to contain ANAs when compared to sera from dogs reactive to only 1 test antigen. When interpreting the relevance of seroreactivity to nuclear antigens, clinicians should recognize that dogs with seroreactivity toB vinsonii(berkhoffii),E canis, orL infantumantigens (especially those with seroreactivity to more than one of these pathogens) may produce ANAs.
Sarcocystis neurona‐Specific Immunoglobulin G in the Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid of Horses Administered S neurona Vaccine
Authors: Witonsky Sharon , Morrow Jennifer K. , Leger Clare , Dascanio John , Buechner‐Maxwell Virginia , Palmer Wally , Kline Kristen , Cook Anne
Published: March 2010

A vaccine againstSarcocystis neurona,which induces equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), has received conditional licensure in the United States. A major concern is whether the immunoglobulin G (IgG) response elicited by the vaccine will compromise the use of Western blotting (WB) as a diagnostic tool in vaccinated horses with neurologic disease. Our goals were to determine if vaccination (1) causes seroconversion; (2) causes at least a transient increase inS neurona‐specificIgG in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF); and (3) induces an IgG response that can be differentiated from that induced by natural exposure. Horses included in the study (n=29) were older than 6 months with no evidence of neurologic disease. The presence or absence of anti‐S neuronaantibodies in the serum of each horse was determined by WB analysis. Seropositive horses had CSF collected and submitted for cytology, CSF index, and WB analysis. The vaccine was administered to all the horses and boostered 3–4 weeks later. On day 14 after the 2nd administration, serum and CSF were collected and analyzed. Eighty‐nine percent (8 of 9) of the initial seronegative horses seroconverted after vaccination, of which 57% (4 of 7) had anti‐S neuronaIgG in their CSF. Eighty percent (16 of 20) of the seropositive horses had an increase in serumS neuronaIgG after vaccination. Of the 6 of 20 horses that were initially seropositive/CSF negative, 2 were borderline positive for anti‐S neuronaIgG in the CSF, 2 tested positive, and 2 were excluded because the CSF sample had been contaminated by blood. There were no WB banding patterns that distinguished samples from horses that seroconverted due to vaccination versus natural exposure. Caution must be used in interpreting WB analysis from neurologic horses that have been recently vaccinated for EPM.
Effects of Supplemental Lactoferrin on Serum Lactoferrin and IgG Concentrations and Neutrophil Oxidative Metabolism in Holstein Calves
Authors: Dawes Maisie E. , Lakritz Jeffrey , Tyler Jeff W. , Cockrell Mary , Marsh Antoinette E. , Estes D. Mark , Larson Robert L. , Steevens Barry
Published: March 2010

Lactoferrin (LF) is an iron‐binding protein present in both colostrum and secondary granules of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs). We hypothesized that supplemental LF enhances neutrophil function in neonatal calves. Newborn calves were assigned to receive colostrum (C), colostrum + LF (CLF, 1 g/kg), or milk replacer + LF (MRLF, 1 g/kg). Serum (LF and IgG) and whole blood (neutrophil isolation) samples were obtained prior to treatment (day 0) and at 24 hours and 9 days of age. Serum IgG concentrations (mean ± SD) in C, CLF, and MRLF calves at 24 hours were 1,911 ± 994 mg/dL, 2,181 ± 625 mg/dL, and 0 mg/ dL, respectively. Serum LF concentrations in C, CLF, and MRLF calves on day 0 were 324 ± 334 ng/mL (range 0–863 ng/mL), 135 ± 158 ng/mL (range 0–429 ng/mL), and 318 ± 337 ng/mL (range 0–964 ng/mL), respectively. LF concentrations in C, CLF, and MRLF calves at 24 hours were significantly higher(P <.05), at 1,564 ± 1,114 ng/mL (range 335‐3,628 ng/mL, 2,237 ± 936 ng/mL (range 31‐3,287 ng/mL), and 3,189 ± 926 ng/mL (range 1,736‐4,120 ng/mL), respectively. Cytochromecreduction in opsonized zymosan‐treated or phorbol ester‐treated cells was not significantly affected by supplemental LF provided at birth. Oral LF is absorbed in calves but does not alter PMN superoxide production and does not alter IgG absorption. Key words: Cytochromecreduction; Opsonized zymosan; Phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate.
Azotemia and Mortality among Babesia microti‐Like Infected Dogs
Authors: Camacho A. Tomas , Guitian F. Javier , Pallas Estrella , Gestal Juan Jesus , Olmeda A. Sonia , Goethert Heidi K. , III Sam R. Telford , Spielman Andrew
Published: March 2010

Babesia microti‐like piroplasms are a recently recognized cause of illness in dogs in northwest Spain. Our objective was to describe the clinical characteristics and investigate the risk factors for azotemia and death among 58 B microti‐like infected dogs. Twenty‐one of the 58 (36%) dogs were azotemic at the time that the infection was diagnosed. The case fatality rate during the following week was 22%. Dogs with azotemia at the time of diagnosis were 10 times (95% CI, 3.26–28.8) more likely to die during the following week. Azotemia was the main cause of death for B microti‐like infected dogs (attributable fraction = 90%). Severe anemia was present in 45 of the 58 (78%) dogs. Azotemic dogs also presented with hyperphosphatemia, hypoalbuminemia, hypercholesterolemia, proteinuria, and high urine protein: creatinine ratios, suggesting a glomerular component to the disease. Age was the only factor significantly associated with the risk of azotemia (P= .042): on average, a 4‐year age increase doubled the risk of an infected dog being azotemic. The only factor significantly associated with mortality was azotemia (P= .001). We concluded that B microti‐like infection is associated with a high risk of azotemia and mortality.