bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of proinflammatory mediators and glucocorticoids on L-selectin expression in peripheral blood neutrophils from dairy cows in various stages of lactation
Authors: Diez-Fraile Araceli , Meyer Evelyne , Duchateau Luc , Burvenich Christian
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether proinflammatory mediators and glucocorticoids affect CD62L(L-selectin) expression on peripheral blood neutrophils from cows in various stages of lactation.

Animals—100 healthy dairy cows during early (13.1 ± 0.79 days after parturition; n = 31), peak (58.7 ± 1.64 days after parturition; 31), and mid (137.2 ± 2.59 days after parturition; 38) lactation.

Procedure—In vitro effects of relevant proinflammatory mediators that are released in response to mastitis caused by gram-negative bacteria such as lipopolysaccharide (endotoxin), tumor necrosis factor-α, and platelet-activating factor (PAF) on CD62L expression on bovine neutrophils were assessed by flow cytometry. Influences of cortisol and dexamethasone on CD62L expression on bovine neutrophils were also investigated.

Results—Basal CD62L expression on neutrophils from cows during early, peak, and mid lactation were similar. Lipopolysaccharide and tumor necrosis factor-α had no effect on CD62L expression on neutrophils from cows at any stage of lactation. Conversely, PAF elicited a time- and dose-dependent, down regulatory effect on CD62L expression. However, no differential shedding of CD62L from neutrophils of cows at any stage of lactation were detected. In addition, no effects on CD62L expression on bovine neutrophils after whole blood incubation with cortisol or dexamethasone were observed. Incubation with glucocorticoids did not prevent the down regulatory effect of PAF on CD62L expression.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Comparable basal CD62L expression on bovine neutrophils and equal amounts of CD62L shedding from bovine neutrophils during all stages of lactation suggest that variations in CD62L density are not a likely cause of susceptibility of cows to coliform-induced mastitis during early lactation. (Am J Vet Res2004;225:1421–1426)
Tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, serum amyloid A, haptoglobin, and cortisol concentrations in sows following intramammary inoculation of Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhu Yaohong , Österlundh Ingrid , Hultén Fredrik , Magnusson Ulf
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines, acute-phase proteins, and cortisol differ at parturition among 3 categories of sows (noninoculated, clinically affected and nonaffected following intramammary inoculation withEscherichia coli).

Animals—16 sows.

Procedure—Sows were allocated to inoculated (n = 12) or noninoculated (4) groups. Inoculated sows received intramammary administration ofE coli(serotype O127) during the 24-hour period preceding parturition. Blood samples were collected from noninoculated and inoculated sows for 3 consecutive days within 3 to 11 days before farrowing and inoculation. Samples were also collected 0, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after farrowing and inoculation. Inoculated sows were further categorized as affected (4 sows) or nonaffected (8 sows) based on clinical signs of disease. Serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, plasma interleukin (IL)-6, and serum amyloid A (SAA) concentrations were measured by use of ELISA; serum haptoglobin concentration was assayed by use of a hemoglobin- binding method; and plasma cortisol concentration was determined by use of radioimmunoassay.

Results—Plasma or serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, and SAA of both categories of inoculated sows were significantly increased by 24 hours after intramammary inoculation ofE coli, compared with concentrations in noninoculated sows. Concentrations of serum TNF-α and plasma IL-6 were significantly higher in inoculated sows that developed clinical mastitis than in nonaffected inoculated sows.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Concentrations of TNF-α and IL-6 are promising markers for the identification of periparturient sows with subclinical coliform mastitis. Identification of such sows should help improve the health and survival of piglets. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:1434–1439)
Pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonographic evaluation of hepatic veins during variable hemodynamic states in healthy anesthetized dogs
Authors: Smithenson Bryan Todd , Mattoon John S. , Bonagura John D. , Abrahamsen Eric J. , Drost William Tod
Published: January 2006

Objectives—To quantify direction and velocity of
blood flow in hepatic veins in dogs under different
hemodynamic conditions by use of pulsed-wave
Doppler ultrasonography.

Animals—10 healthy dogs.

Procedure—Dogs were anesthetized, and venous
flow velocities in the quadrate lobe were measured.
Arterial blood pressure, right atrial pressure,
pulmonary artery pressure, and cardiac output
were measured simultaneously. The timing of each
waveform during the cardiac cycle was used to
identify velocity profiles. Peak waveform velocities
were measured during conditions of light anesthesia
with isoflurane (baseline; period 1), cardiovascular
depression following administration of highdose
isoflurane and esmolol IV (period 2), cardiovascular
depression with crystalloid volume expansion
(period 3), and high cardiac output induced
with dobutamine (period 4). Hemodynamic measurements
and maximum waveform velocities
were compared among the 4 periods by use of an
ANOVA and univariate and multivariate linear
regression.

Results—During each study period, 4 distinct, lowvelocity
waves were identified. Mean velocities
recorded during period 1 were as follows: retrograde
atrial contraction a-wave, 7.3 cm/s; antegrade systolic
S-wave, 15.0 cm/s; retrograde venous return v-wave,
2.7 cm/s; and antegrade diastolic D-wave, 11.4 cm/s.
Mean S:D ratio was 1.27. During periods 3 and 4, Swave
velocity increased; D-wave velocity was highest
during period 4.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Consistent
hepatic venous velocity profiles were observed in
healthy dogs under different hemodynamic conditions.
These findings provide baseline values that may
be useful in evaluating clinical cases, but further study
involving healthy, awake dogs and dogs with cardiac
and hepatic diseases is required. (Am J Vet Res
2004;65:734–740)
Composition of cerebrospinal fluid in clinically normal adult ferrets
Authors: Platt Simon R. , Dennis Patricia M. , McSherry Leo J. , Chrisman Cheryl L. , Bennett R. Avery
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the protein and cellular composition of CSF in healthy adult ferrets.

Animals—42 clinically normal adult ferrets.

Procedure—CSF samples were collected from the cerebellomedullary cistern of anesthetized ferrets by use of disposable 25-gauge, 1.6-cm-long hypodermic needles. Samples were processed within 20 minutes after collection. The number of WBCs and RBCs per microliter of CSF was counted by use of a hemacytometer. The total protein concentration was determined by use of an automated chemistry analyzer.

Results—Total WBC counts (range, 0 to 8 cells/µL; mean, 1.59 cells/µL) in CSF of ferrets were similar to reference range values obtained for CSF from other species. Twenty-seven CSF samples had < 100 RBCs/µL (mean, 20.3 RBCs/µL). A small but significant effect of blood contamination on WBC counts was found between the 27 CSF samples with < 100 RBCs/µL and the remaining samples. Protein concentrations in CSF of ferrets (range, 28.0 to 68.0 mg/dL; mean, 31.4 mg/dL) were higher than has been reported for the CSF of dogs and cats. A significant effect of blood contamination on the CSF protein concentration was not found.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance— We have established reference range values for WBC counts and protein concentrations in CSF from healthy adult ferrets that may be useful in the clinical investigation of CNS disease. Results of our study indicate that the WBC count is significantly affected by blood contamination of the CSF sample. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:758–760)
Evaluation of glutamate loss from damaged retinal cells of dogs with primary glaucoma
Authors: McIlnay Tonya R. , Gionfriddo Juliet R. , Dubielzig Richard R. , Powell Cynthia C. , Madl James E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether retinal damage in dogs with primary glaucoma (PG) is consistent with ischemia-induced glutamate toxicosis.

Sample Population—Retinal tissue sections from 25 dogs with PG and 12 normotensive control dogs.

Procedure—Retinal sections from control and glaucomatous dogs were stained for morphometric and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) analyses to determine whether retinal damage was consistent with glutamate toxicosis. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to detect ischemia-like loss of glutamate from neurons in damaged areas.

Results—In severely damaged glaucomatous retinas, all neurosensory layers had focal regions that were thin or disrupted. There was less thinning of the outer nuclear layer (ONL) and inner nuclear layer (INL) in moderately damaged retinas than in severely damaged retinas. Acute signs of damage in the INL included cells with dark, condensed chromatin and lightly stained cytoplasm interspersed with a few TUNELpositive cells, which was consistent with glutamate toxicosis. Glutamate immunoreactivity was reduced in thin areas and in damaged cells of the INL and ONL, which was consistent with glutamate release in damaged areas. Glutamate immunoreactivity was increased in putative Müller cells in damaged areas, which also was consistent with glutamate release.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Retinal damage in dogs with PG differs in intensity in focal areas. Damage in affected regions resembles damage induced by glutamate. Glutamate is lost from damaged neurons and accumulates in Müller cells, which is consistent with increased glutamate release contributing to the damage. Glutamate antagonists may protect INL cells in dogs with glaucoma. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:776–786)
Determination of expression of cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 isozymes in canine tissues and their differential sensitivity to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Authors: Wilson Joel E. , Chandrasekharan Naduviladath V. , Westover Kenneth D. , Eager Kendra B. , Simmons Daniel L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate cyclooxygenase isozyme distribution in tissues from dogs and determine the differential sensitivity of canine cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and -2 isozymes to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Sample Population—Canine tissue samples (stomach, duodenum, ileum, jejunum, colon, spleen, cerebral cortex, lung, ovary, kidney, and liver) were obtained from 2 dogs for northern and western blot analyses, and blood for whole blood COX assays was obtained from 15 dogs.

Procedure—11 NSAIDs were evaluated to determine their COX-2 selectivity in whole blood assays. The concentrations of the drug needed to inhibit 50% of enzyme activity (IC50) were then calculated for comparison. Expression and tissue distribution of COX isozymes were determined by northern and western blot analysis.

Results—Aspirin, diclofenac, indomethacin, ketoprofen, meclofenamic acid, and piroxicam had little selectivity toward COX isozymes, whereas NS398, carprofen, tolfenamic acid, nimesulide, and etodolac had more than 5 times greater preference for inhibiting COX-2 than COX-1. All canine tissues examined, including those from the gastrointestinal tract, coexpressed COX-1 and -2 mRNA, although protein expression was observed only for COX-1.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Canine COX-2 was selectively inhibited by etodolac, nimesulide, and NS398; tolfenamic acid and carprofen also appeared to be preferential COX-2 inhibitors in dogs. The roles of COX-1 as a constitutive housekeeping enzyme and COX-2 as a proinflammatory inducible enzyme (as determined in humans) appear to apply to dogs; therefore, COX-2-selective inhibitors should prove useful in reducing the adverse effects associated with nonselective NSAIDs. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:810–818)
Determination of muscle architecture and fiber characteristics of the superficial and deep digital flexor muscles in the forelimbs of adult horses
Authors: Zarucco Laura , Taylor Ken T. , Stover Susan M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To provide a quantitative description of the architecture of superficial digital flexor (SDF) and deep digital flexor (DDF) muscles in adult horses to predict muscle-tendon behavior and estimate muscle forces.

Sample Population—7 forelimb specimens from 7 adult Thoroughbreds.

Procedure—Muscle and tendon lengths and volumes were measured from 6 fixed forelimbs. After processing, fiber bundle and sarcomere lengths were measured. Optimal fascicle lengths and muscle length-to-fascicle length, muscle length-to-free tendon length, and fascicle length-to-tendon length ratios were calculated, as were tendon and muscle physiologic cross-sectional areas (PCSAs). Pennation angles were measured in 1 embalmed specimen.

Results—The SDF optimal fascicle lengths were uniformly short (mean ± SD, 0.8 ± 0.1 cm), whereas DDF lengths ranged from 0.9 ± 0.2 cm to 10.8 ± 1.6 cm. The DDF humeral head had 3 architectural subunits, each receiving a separate median nerve branch, suggestive of neuromuscular compartmentalization. Pennation angles were small (10oto 25o). The PCSAs of the SDF and DDF muscle were 234 ± 51 cm2and 259 ± 30 cm2, with estimated forces of 4,982 ± 1148 N and 5,520 ± 544 N, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The SDF muscle appears to provide strong tendinous support with little muscle fascicular shortening and fatigueresistance properties. The DDF muscle combines passive and dynamic functions with larger tension development and higher shortening velocities during digital motion. Architectural parameters are useful for estimation of forces and have implications for analysis of muscle-tendon function, surgical procedures involving muscle-tendon lengthening, and biomechanical modeling. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:819–828)
Use of a real-time polymerase chain reaction-based fluorogenic 5' nuclease assay to evaluate insect vectors of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis infections in horses
Authors: Spier Sharon J. , Leutenegger Christian M. , Carroll Scott P. , Loye Jenella E. , Pusterla Jeannine Berger , Carpenter Tim E. , Mihalyi Judy E. , Madigan John E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To develop and use a sensitive molecular assay for detecting the phospholipase D (PLD) exotoxin gene ofCorynebacterium pseudotuberculosisin an attempt to identify insect vectors that may be important in transmission of clinical disease in horses.

Sample Population—2,621 flies of various species.

Procedure—A real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based fluorogenic 5' nuclease (TaqMan) system (ie, TaqMan PCR assay) was developed for the detection of the PLD gene in insects. Flies were collected monthly (May to November 2002) from 5 farms in northern California whereC pseudotuberculosisinfection in horses is endemic. Three of the 5 farms (which housed a total of 358 horses) had diseased horses during the study period. A total of 2,621 flies of various species were tested for the PLD gene ofC pseudotuberculosis.

Results—Evidence of bacterial DNA for the PLD gene was detected in skin biopsy specimens from clinically affected horses and from 3 fly species collected from farms where affected horses were housed. Farms with a high incidence of diseased horses had a high proportion of insects carrying the organism. High percentages of flies with positive results for the PLD gene were observed in October, when most clinically affected horses were observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Our results are consistent with the hypothesis thatC pseudotuberculosismay be vectored to horses by flies. Three potential vectors were identified, includingHaematobia irritans,Stomoxys calcitrans, andMusca domestica. The organism can be identified in up to 20% of house flies (Musca domestica) in the vicinity of diseased horses. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:829–834)
Pharmacokinetics of zidovudine in cats
Authors: Zhang Weijiang , Mauldin Jeffrey K. , Schmiedt Chad W. , Brockus Charles W. , Boudinot F. Douglas , Stevenson M. A. McCrackin
Published: January 2006

Objective—To characterize the pharmacokinetics of zidovudine (AZT) in cats.

Animals—6 sexually intact 9-month-old barrier-reared domestic shorthair cats.

Procedure—Cats were randomly alloted into 3 groups, and zidovudine (25 mg/kg) was administered IV, intragastrically (IG), and PO in a 3-way crossover study design with 2-week washout periods between experiments. Plasma samples were collected for 12 hours after drug administration, and zidovudine concentrations were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax), time to reach Cmax(Tmax), and bioavailability were compared between IG and PO routes. Area under the curve (AUC) and terminal phase halflife (t½) among the 3 administration routes were also compared.

Results—Plasma concentrations of zidovudine declined rapidly with t½ of 1.4 ± 0.19 hours, 1.4 ± 0.16 hours, and 1.5 ± 0.28 hours after IV, IG, and PO administration, respectively. Total body clearance and steady-state volume of distribution were 0.41 ± 0.10 L/h/kg and 0.82 ± 0.15 L/kg, respectively. Mean Tmaxfor IG administration (0.22 hours) was significantly shorter than Tmaxfor PO administration (0.67 hours). The AUC after IV and PO administration was 64.7 ± 16.6 mg·h/L and 60.5 ± 17.0 mg·h/L, respectively, whereas AUC for the IG route was significantly less at 42.5 ± 9.41 mg·h/L. Zidovudine was well absorbed after IG and PO administration with bioavailability values of 70 ± 24% and 95 ± 23%, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cats had slower clearance of zidovudine, compared with other species. Plasma concentrations of zidovudine were maintained above the minimum effective concentration for inhibiting FIV replication by 50% (0.07µM [0.019 µg/mL] for wild-type FIV clinical isolate) for at least 12 hours after IV, IG, or PO administration. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:835–840)
Evaluation of the tensile strengths of four monofilament absorbable suture materials after immersion in canine urine with or without bacteria
Authors: Greenberg Chelsea B. , Davidson Ellen B. , Bellmer Danielle D. , Morton Rebecca J. , Payton Mark E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the tensile strength, elongation,
and degradation of 4 monofilament absorbable
suture materials that undergo degradation by hydrolysis
in specimens of canine urine with various physical
characteristics.

Sample Population—4 monofilament absorbable
sutures (polydioxanone, poliglecaprone 25, polyglyconate,
and glycomer 631).

Procedure—Voided urine was collected from 6
healthy dogs, pooled, filter-sterilized, and prepared to
provide 5 media: sterile neutral (pH, 7.0), sterile acidic
(pH, 6.2), sterile basic (pH, 8.8), Escherichia coli-inoculated,
and Proteus mirabilis-inoculated urine. Ten
strands of each suture material were immersed in
each of the media for 0 to 28 days. Tensile strength
and elongation of each suture material were evaluated
by use of a texture analyzer on days 0, 1, 3, 7, 10,
14, 21, and 28.

Results—Reduction in tensile strength was detected
for all materials in all urine specimens over time.
Polyglyconate and polydioxanone had superior tensile
strengths in sterile neutral and E coli-inoculated urine,
and polydioxanone retained the greatest tensile
strength throughout the study period. All suture materials
disintegrated before day 7 in P mirabilis-inoculated
urine.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Polydioxanone, polyglyconate, and glycomer 631 may
be acceptable for urinary bladder closure in the presence
of sterile neutral and E coli-contaminated urine.
Tensile strength of poliglecaprone 25 in urine may be
unacceptable by the critical healing time for bladder
tissue (14 to 21 days). During bladder surgery, exposure
of suture material that degrades via hydrolysis to
urine containing Proteus spp should be minimized.
Am J Vet Res (2004;65:847–853)
Isoflurane sparing action of epidurally administered xylazine hydrochloride in anesthetized dogs
Authors: Soares Joao Henrique N. , Ascoli Fabio O. , Gremiao Isabela D. F. , Segura Ignacio A. Gomez de , Filho Firmino Marsico
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the influence of epidural administration of xylazine hydrochloride on the minimum alveolar concentration of isoflurane (MACISO) and cardiopulmonary system in anesthetized dogs.

Animals—6 clinically normal dogs.

Procedure—Dogs were anesthetized with isoflurane in oxygen after randomly being assigned to receive 1 of the following 4 treatments: epidural administration of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution or xylazine at a dose of 0.1, 0.2, or 0.4 mg·kg–1. Experiments were performed on 5 occasions with at least a 1-week interval between experiments; each dog received all 4 treatments. Following instrumentation, the concentration of isoflurane was maintained constant for 15 minutes at the MACISOthat had been determined for each dog, and data on heart rate, arterial blood pressure, respiratory rate, tidal volume, minute volume, arterial partial pressure of oxygen, arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide, and arterial pH were collected. The epidural treatment was administered, and 30 minutes later, data were again collected. From this point on, determination of the MACISOfollowing epidural treatment (ie, MACISO + EPI) was initiated. Cardiopulmonary data were collected before each electrical supramaximal stimulus during MACISO + EPIdeterminations.

Results—The mean (± SD) MACISOwas 1.29 ± 0.04%. The epidural administration of xylazine at doses of 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 mg·kg−1decreased the MACISO, respectively, by 8.4 ± 2.4%, 21.7 ± 4.9%, and 33.4 ± 2.64%. Cardiopulmonary effects were limited.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Epidural administration of xylazine decreases the MACISOin a dose-dependent manner and is associated with few cardiopulmonary effects in anesthetized dogs. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:854–859)
Use of percutaneous ethanol injection for treatment of bilateral hyperplastic thyroid nodules in cats
Authors: Wells Andrea L. , Long Craig D. , Hornof William J. , Goldstein Richard E. , Nyland Thomas G. , Nelson Richard W. , Feldman Edward C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the efficacy and safety of percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) for the treatment of hyperthyroidism caused by bilateral hyperplastic thyroid nodules in cats.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—7 cats.

Procedure—Hyperthyroidism was diagnosed on the basis of clinical signs and increased serum total thyroxine (TT4) concentrations. The presence of 2 cervical thyroid nodules was confirmed by use of ultrasonography and technetium Tc 99m albumin thyroid scans. After the death of 1 cat that received PEI in both thyroid nodules at the same time, the protocol was changed to injecting ethanol into 1 nodule at a time, with at least 1 month between injections. Clinical signs, serum TT4 concentrations, serum ionized calcium concentrations, laryngeal function, findings on ultrasonographic examinations of the ventral cervical region, and results of thyroid scans were monitored.

Results—Serum TT4 concentrations transiently decreased in all 6 cats (into the reference range in 5 of 6 cats) within 4 days of the first staged ethanol injection. Each subsequent injection resulted in a transient decrease in serum TT4 concentration. The longest period of euthyroidism was 27 weeks. Adverse effects included Horner's syndrome, dysphonia, and laryngeal paralysis. One cat died of unrelated causes. One cat underwent bilateral thyroidectomy, 2 cats were treated with methimazole, and 2 cats that had increased serum TT4 concentrations were not treated further, because they remained clinically normal.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Percutaneous ethanol ablation of bilateral thyroid nodules as a treatment for cats with hyperthyroidism is not recommended. This treatment is not as efficacious as the medical and surgical treatments presently used. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1293–1297)
Correlation between leukocytosis and necropsy findings in dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia: 34 cases (1994–1999)
Authors: McManus Patricia M. , Craig Linden E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether severity of leukocytosis correlates with severity of postmortem lesions in dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA).

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—34 dogs with IMHA that had CBC performed within 48 hours prior to death and complete necropsy examinations.

Procedure—Dogs were independently assigned to 4 leukocytosis groups (within reference range; mild leukocytosis, moderate leukocytosis, marked leukocytosis) and 3 lesion severity groups (mild lesions, moderate lesions, severe lesions).

Results—Moderate to marked leukocytosis correlated with moderate to severe postmortem lesions. Ischemic necrosis within liver, kidney, heart, lung, and spleen attributable to thromboembolic disease or anemic hypoxia were the most common important lesions found at necropsy. None of the dogs with mild lesions had moderate or marked leukocytosis. Four of 14 severely affected dogs had WBC counts within reference range, but all 4 had neutrophilic left shifts. Three of these 4 dogs had toxic change in neutrophils.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Moderate to marked leukocytosis, neutrophilic left shift, and toxic change in neutrophils in dogs with IMHA should alert clinicians to the potential for moderate to severe tissue injury, which could complicate treatment and worsen prognosis. Lesions appear to be secondary to anemic hypoxia, thromboembolic disease, or both; therefore, treatment objectives should focus on improving blood oxygen-carrying capacity and monitoring for thromboembolic disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1308–1313)
Response to and efficacy of vaccination against eastern equine encephalomyelitis virus in emus
Authors: Tengelsen Leslie A. , Bowen Richard A. , Royals Michael A. , Campbell Grant L. , Komar Nicholas , Craven Robert B.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate humoral immune responses of emus vaccinated with commercially available equine polyvalent or experimental monovalent eastern equine encephalomyelitis (EEE) virus and western equine encephalomyelitis (WEE) virus vaccines and to determine whether vaccinated emus were protected against challenge with EEE virus.

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—25 emus.

Procedure—Birds were randomly assigned to groups (n = 5/group) and vaccinated with 1 of 2 commercially available polyvalent equine vaccines, a monovalent EEE virus vaccine, or a monovalent WEE virus vaccine or were not vaccinated. Neutralizing antibody responses against EEE and WEE viruses were examined at regular intervals for up to 9 months. All emus vaccinated with the equine vaccines and 2 unvaccinated control birds were challenged with EEE virus. An additional unvaccinated bird was housed with the control birds to assess the possibility of contact transmission.

Results—All 4 vaccines induced detectable neutralizing antibody titers, and all birds vaccinated with the equine vaccines were fully protected against an otherwise lethal dose of EEE virus. Unvaccinated challenged birds developed viremia (> 109plaque-forming units/ml of blood) and shed virus in feces, oral secretions, and regurgitated material. The unvaccinated pen-mate became infected in the absence of mosquito vectors, presumably as a result of direct virus transmission between birds.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate that emus infected with EEE virus develop a hightiter viremia and suggest that they may serve as important virus reservoirs. Infected emus shed EEE virus in secretions and excretions, making them a direct hazard to pen-mates and attending humans. Commercially available polyvalent equine vaccines protect emus against EEE virus infection. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1469–1473)
Ventilatory failure, ventilator management, and outcome in dogs with cervical spinal disorders: 14 cases (1991–1999)
Authors: Beal Matthew W. , Paglia Danielle T. , Griffin Greg M. , Hughes Dez , King Lesley G.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the incidence of and risk factors for ventilatory failure in dogs undergoing surgery for treatment of cervical spinal disorders and to document ventilator management, clinical course, and long-term outcome of dogs that experienced ventilatory failure in association with cervical spinal disorders or their management.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—14 dogs.

Procedure—Dogs with cervical spinal disorders that required positive-pressure ventilation (PPV) were identified, and signalment, concurrent diseases, neurologic status at initial examination, clinical course, pulmonary function before, during, and after PPV, management techniques, complications, and outcome were recorded. Dogs that underwent surgery and required PPV were compared with dogs that underwent cervical spinal surgery during the same period that did not require PPV.

Results—14 dogs with cervical spinal disorders required PPV to treat hypoventilation, including 13 of 263 (4.9%) dogs that underwent surgery for cervical spinal disorders. Lesions between the second and fourth cervical vertebrae and treatment by means of a dorsal decompressive laminectomy were associated with a significantly increased risk of perioperative hypoventilation. Pulmonary gas exchange function was normal or nearly normal throughout the course of PPV in dogs that survived. Ten dogs survived, and 9 of the 10 regained neurologic function. All 9 dogs that regained neurologic function had deep pain perception on initial examination at the veterinary teaching hospital.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that a small percentage of dogs with cervical spinal disorders may require perioperative ventilatory support. With prolonged PPV and aggressive management, a good outcome may be achieved in dogs similar to those described in the present study. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1598–1602).
Survival rates for horses undergoing stapled small intestinal anastomosis: 84 cases (1988–1997)
Authors: Fugaro Michael N. , Coté Nathalie M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether location and type of small intestinal anastomosis and other variables were associated with short- and long-term survival rates in horses undergoing stapled small intestinal anastomosis.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—84 horses that underwent small intestinal anastomosis.

Procedure—Medical records from 1988 to 1997 were examined for horses that underwent stapled small intestinal anastomosis. Horses were allotted into 4 groups: jejunojejunostomy (n = 27), jejunoileostomy (11), jejunoileocecostomy with small intestinal resection (20), and jejunoileocecostomy without small intestinal resection (26). Survival rates and other variables were determined.

Results—Horses that underwent jejunoileocecostomy without resection had a significantly higher survival rate at all intervals than did horses in the other 3 groups. At 180 and 365 days after surgery, horses that underwent jejunojejunostomy had a significantly lower survival rate than those that underwent jejunoileocecostomy with intestinal resection. Horses that underwent jejunoileocecostomy with intestinal resection had a significantly higher survival rate at 1 year, compared with the combined jejunojejunostomy and jejunoileostomy groups. Preoperative heart rate was inversely associated with survival rate. Overall survival rates at discharge and 1 year were 81 and 56%, respectively. For horses that underwent small intestinal resection, survival rates at discharge and 1 year were 65 and 47%, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Horses that underwent anastomosis of the small intestine to the cecum without resection had the highest survival rate, compared with horses that required intestinal resection. In some instances, resection and anastomosis involving the cecum had better prognosis than resections involving 2 segments of the small intestine. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1603–1607)
Effect of lameness on the calving-to-conception interval in dairy cows
Authors: Hernandez Jorge , Shearer Jan K. , Webb Daniel W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To examine the relationship between lameness and the duration of the interval from calving to subsequent conception in lactating dairy cows.

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—837 dairy cows.

Procedure—Cows affected with lameness were classified into 1 of 4 groups on the basis of types of disease or lesions observed, including foot rot, papillomatous digital dermatitis, claw lesions, or multiple lesions. Cows not affected with lameness were classified as healthy. Time from calving to conception was compared between lame cows and healthy cows.

Results—254 (30%) cows were affected with lameness during lactation. Most lame cows (59%) had claw lesions. Lame cows with claw lesions were 0.52 times as likely to conceive as healthy cows. Median time to conception was 40 days longer in lame cows with claw lesions, compared with healthy cows. Number of breedings per conception for lame cows with claw lesions was significantly higher than that for healthy cows.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Claw lesions were the most important cause of lameness, impairing reproductive performance in dairy cows, as indicated by a higher incidence of affected cows and a greater time from calving to conception and a higher number of breedings required per conception, comp ared with healthy cows. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001; 218:1611–1614)
Evaluation of piroxicam for the treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma in dogs
Authors: Schmidt Bradley R. , Glickman Nita W. , DeNicola Dennis B. , Gortari Amalia E. de , Knapp Deborah W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the use of piroxicam for the treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma in dogs.

Design—Prospective case series.

Animals—17 dogs with measurable oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Procedure—Dogs were treated with piroxicam at a dosage of 0.3 mg/kg (0.14 mg/lb) of body weight, PO, every 24 hours until progressive disease or unacceptable signs of toxicosis developed or the dog died.

Results—One dog had a complete remission (maxillary tumor), and 2 dogs had partial remissions (lingual tumor and tonsillar tumor). An additional 5 dogs had stable disease, including 1 with a maxillary tumor, 2 with mandibular tumors, and 2 with tonsillar tumors. Variables associated with tumor response were not identified. Median and mean times to failure for the 3 dogs that had a remission were 180 and 223 days, respectively. Median and mean times to failure for the 5 dogs with stable disease were 102 and 223 days, respectively. Time to failure was positively associated with tumor response and negatively associated with tumor size. One dog had mild adverse gastrointestinal tract effects that resolved with the addition of misoprostol to the treatment regimen.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that piroxicam may be useful in the treatment of dogs with oral squamous cell carcinoma; response rate was similar to that reported for other cytotoxic treatments. Larger-scale studies are warranted to determine what role piroxicam may have, alone or in combination with other treatments, for the treatment of dogs with oral squamous cell carcinoma. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1783–1786)
Risk factors for pet evacuation failure after a slow-onset disaster
Authors: Heath Sebastian E. , Beck Alan M. , Kass Philip H. , Glickman Larry T.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine risk factors for pet evacuation failure during a flood.

Design—Cross-sectional survey.

Sample Population—203 pet-owning households in a flooded region.

Procedures—Persons under evacuation notice because of a flood were interviewed by use of a random telephone survey.

Results—102 households evacuated with their pets, whereas 101 households evacuated without their pets. Low pet attachment and commitment scores were significantly associated with a greater chance of pet evacuation failure. Risk of pet evacuation failure and lower attachment and commitment scores were also associated with pet management practices prior to the disaster, such as dogs being kept outdoors most of the time or owners not having carriers for their cats. More than 90% of owners made housing arrangements for their pets without assistance.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Predictors of pet evacuation failure are usually present before a disaster strikes and are potentially modifiable. Mitigation of pet evacuation failure should focus on activities that reinforce responsible pet ownership and strengthen the human-animal bond, including socializing dogs, attending dog behavior training classes, transporting cats in nondisaster times, and seeking regular preventive veterinary care. Most pet owners are self-reliant in disasters, and this behavior should be encouraged. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1905–1910)
Efficacy of an inactivated respiratory syncytial virus vaccine in calves
Authors: Ellis John , West Keith , Konoby Carrie , Leard Tim , Gallo Guillermo , Conlon Jennifer , Fitzgerald Nancy
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether an inactivated bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) vaccine would protect calves from infection with virulent BRSV.

Design—Randomized controlled trial.

Animals—27 nine-week-old calves seronegative for BRSV exposure.

Procedure—Group-1 calves (n = 9) were not vaccinated. Group-2 calves (n = 9) were vaccinated on days 0 and 21 with an inactivated BRSV vaccine containing a minimum immunizing dose of antigen. Group-3 calves (n = 9) were vaccinated on days 0 and 21 with an inactivated BRSV vaccine containing an amount of antigen similar to that in a commercial vaccine. All calves were challenged with virulent BRSV on day 42. Clinical signs and immune responses were monitored for 8 days after challenge. Calves were euthanatized on day 50, and lungs were examined for lesions.

Results—Vaccination elicited increases in BRSV-specific IgG and virus neutralizing antibody titers and in production of interferon-γ. Virus neutralizing antibody titers were consistently less than IgG titers. Challenge with BRSV resulted in severe respiratory tract disease and extensive pulmonary lesions in control calves, whereas vaccinated calves had less severe signs of clinical disease and less extensive pulmonary lesions. The percentage of vaccinated calves that shed virus in nasal secretions was significantly lower than the percentage of control calves that did, and peak viral titer was lower for vaccinated than for control calves.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the inactivated BRSV vaccine provided clinical protection from experimental infection with virulent virus and decreased the severity of pulmonary lesions. Efficacy was similar to that reported for modified-live BRSV vaccines. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1973–1980)
Long-term outcome of gonadectomy performed at an early age or traditional age in dogs
Authors: Howe Lisa M. , Slater Margaret R. , Boothe Harry W. , Hobson H. Phil , Holcom Jennifer L. , Spann Angela C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine long-term results and complications of gonadectomy performed at an early age (prepubertal) or at the traditional age in dogs.

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—269 dogs from animal shelters.

Procedure—Dogs that underwent gonadectomy were allotted to 2 groups on the basis of estimated age at surgery (traditional age, ≥ 24 weeks old; prepubertal, < 24 weeks old). Adoptive owner information was obtained from shelter records, and telephone interviews were conducted with owners to determine physical or behavioral problems observed in the dogs since adoption. Follow-up information was obtained from attending veterinarians for dogs with complex problems or when owners were uncertain regarding the exact nature of their dog's problem.

Results—Prepubertal gonadectomy did not result in an increased incidence of behavioral problems or problems associated with any body system, compared with traditional-age gonadectomy, during a median follow-up period of 48 months after gonadectomy. Rate of retention in the original adoptive household was the same for dogs that underwent prepubertal gonadectomy as those that underwent traditional- age gonadectomy. Infectious diseases, however, were more common in dogs that underwent prepubertal gonadectomy.

Conclusions and Clinical Implications—With the exception of infectious diseases, prepubertal gonadectomy may be safely performed in dogs without concern for increased incidence of physical or behavioral problems during at least a 4-year period after gonadectomy. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218: 217–221)
Postexposure rabies prophylaxis protocol for domestic animals and epidemiologic characteristics of rabies vaccination failures in Texas: 1995–1999
Authors: Wilson Pamela J. , Clark Keith A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether postexposure rabies prophylaxis (PEP) in domestic animals, as mandated by the state of Texas, has continued to be effective and to evaluate PEP and preexposure rabies vaccination failures from 1995 through 1999.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—830 unvaccinated domestic animals (621 dogs, 78 horses, 71 cats, and 60 cattle) that received PEP and 4 animals (3 dogs and 1 horse) that had preexposure rabies vaccination failure.

Procedure—Zoonotic incident case reports from 1995 through 1999 were reviewed for information regarding unvaccinated domestic animals that received PEP according to state protocol after exposure to a rabid animal; reports were also reviewed for information regarding preexposure rabies vaccination failures. The PEP recommendations were to immediately vaccinate the animal against rabies, isolate the animal for 90 days, and administer booster vaccinations during the third and eighth weeks of the isolation period. Rabies vaccines used in the PEP protocol were administered via the route prescribed by the USDA.

Results—From 1995 through 1999, 830 animals received PEP; 4 failures were recorded. Additionally, 4 preexposure rabies vaccination failures were recorded.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of this study indicate that an effective PEP protocol for unvaccinated domestic animals exposed to rabies includes immediate vaccination against rabies, a strict isolation period of 90 days, and administration of booster vaccinations during the third and eighth weeks of the isolation period. This PEP schedule has proven to be effective for control of rabies in domestic animals. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218: 522–525)
Putative uremic encephalopathy in horses: five cases (1978–1998)
Authors: Frye Melinda A. , Johnson Jeremy S. , Traub-Dargatz Josie L. , Savage Catherine J. , Fettman Martin J. , Gould Daniel H.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine historical, physical examination,
clinicopathologic, and postmortem findings in
horses with putative uremic encephalopathy.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—5 horses with renal failure and neurologic
disease not attributable to abnormalities in any other
organ system.

Procedure—Medical records from 1978 to 1998 were
examined for horses with renal disease and neurologic
signs not attributable to primary neurologic, hepatic,
or other diseases. Signalment, history, physical
examination findings, clinicopathologic data, renal
ultrasonographic findings, and postmortem data were
reviewed.

Results—Of 332 horses with renal disease, 5 met
selection criteria. Historical findings, physical examination
findings, clinicopathologic data, ultrasonographic
data, and postmortem findings were consistent
with chronic renal failure. Swollen astrocytes
were detected in all 4 horses examined at necropsy.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A single criterion
was not determined to be pathognomonic for
uremic encephalopathy in horses. Uremic encephalopathy
should be considered as a differential diagnosis
in horses with evidence of chronic renal failure
and encephalopathic neurologic sign not attributable
to other causes. Astrocyte swelling, which was common
to all 4 horses examined at necropsy, may
serve as a microscopic indicator of uremic
encephalopathy in horses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2001;218:560–566)
Use of systemic disease signs to assess disease severity in dairy cows with acute coliform mastitis
Authors: Wenz John R. , Barrington George M. , Garry Franklyn B. , Dinsmore R. Page , Callan Robert J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the use of systemic disease signs for classifying severity of acute coliform mastitis in dairy cows.

Design—Prospective cohort study.

Animals—144 dairy cows.

Procedure—Cows were examined at the time of initial identification of disease (time 0) and classified as having mild, moderate, or severe disease on the basis of rectal temperature, hydration status, rumen contraction rate, and attitude. A CBC and serum biochemical analyses were performed, and milk samples were submitted for bacterial culture at time 0 and 48 hours later.

Results—69 cows were classified as having mild disease, 44 as having moderate disease, and 31 as having severe disease. Median WBC and neutrophil counts were significantly lower in cows with moderate or severe disease at time 0 than in cows with mild disease. Band neutrophil count was significantly higher at 48 hours and serum calcium concentration was significantly lower at time 0 and at 48 hours in cows with severe or moderate disease, compared with cows with mild disease. Twenty-eight, 51, and 77% of cows with mild, moderate, and severe disease, respectively, had > 100,000 colony-forming units/ml of milk at time 0. The odds that a cow with severe disease would die or be culled were 3.6 times the odds for a cow with moderate disease and 11.2 times the odds for a cow with mild disease.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that a classification scheme based on readily observable systemic disease signs can be used to classify disease severity in cows with acute coliform mastitis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:567–572)
Nonhealing corneal ulcers in cats: 29 cases (1991–1999)
Authors: Croix Noelle C. La , Woerdt Alexandra van der , Olivero Dennis K.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare mean healing times after
debridement, debridement with grid keratotomy, and
superficial keratectomy in cats with nonhealing
corneal ulcers.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—29 cats with 36 nonhealing corneal ulcers.

Procedure—Medical records of cats with nonhealing
corneal ulcers were reviewed. Signalment, duration
of clinical signs, ophthalmic abnormalities, and
response to various treatment protocols were
recorded.

Results—Mean age of affected cats was 7 years, 8
months. Affected breeds included domestic shorthair
(17 cats), Persian (9), Himalayan (2), and Siamese (1).
Clinical signs were evident for approximately 2 weeks
prior to referral. Both eyes were affected in 4 cats.
Mean healing time of ulcers treated with superficial
debridement was 30 days. Mean healing time of
ulcers treated with superficial debridement and grid
keratotomy was 42 days. Superficial keratectomy was
performed on 2 eyes and resulted in a healing time of
2 weeks. Formation of a corneal sequestrum was evident
in 2 of 21 eyes treated with superficial debridement.
Formation of a corneal sequestrum was evident
in 4 of 13 eyes treated with superficial debridement
and grid keratotomy.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Brachycephalic
cats appear to be predisposed to developing
nonhealing corneal ulcers. The combination of superficial
debridement and grid keratotomy did not
decrease mean healing time of nonhealing ulcers,
compared with superficial debridement alone. Grid
keratotomy may predispose cats with corneal ulcers
to develop a corneal sequestrum. (J Am Vet Med
Assoc 2001;218:733–735)