bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of the anatomic communications among compartments within the carpus, metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints, stifle joint, and tarsus in llamas
Authors: Semevolos Stacy A. , Cope Rhian B
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the anatomic communications among compartments within the carpus, metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints, stifle joint, and tarsus in llamas.

Sample Population—88 limbs from 22 llamas necropsied because of reasons unrelated to disease of the carpus; tarsus; or metacarpophalangeal, metatarsophalangeal, or stifle joints.

Procedure—1 compartment (randomly assigned) of each joint was injected with blue latex solution. Communication between joint compartments was determined by observation of latex in adjacent compartments following frozen sectioning.

Results—Of the 44 carpi, 30 (68%) had anatomic separation between the radiocarpal and middle carpal joints, whereas the remaining 14 (32%) had communication between the radiocarpal and middle carpal joints. In the metacarpophalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joints, medial and lateral joint compartments remained separate in 83 of 88 (94%) joints injected. The tibiotarsal and proximal intertarsal joints communicated in all tarsi examined, whereas 14 of 38 (37%) communicated between the proximal intertarsal and distal intertarsal joints. Communication between the distal intertarsal and tarsometatarsal joints was detected in 17 of 25 (68%) specimens; all 4 tarsal joints communicated in 11 of 42 (26%) specimens examined. Examination of 33 stifle joints that were successfully injected revealed communication between the femoropatellar, medial femorotibial, and lateral femorotibial joints.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These data suggest that it is important to determine the joint communications specific to each llama prior to treatment of septic arthritis. The metacarpophalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joint compartments may be considered separate, although the lateral and medial compartments infrequently communicate along the proximal palmar or plantar aspect. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:1437–1440)
Myocardial concentrations of fatty acids in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Smith Caren E. , Freeman Lisa M. , Meydani Mohsen , Rush John E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare myocardial concentrations of fatty acids in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) with concentrations in control dogs.

Sample Population—Myocardial tissues from 7 dogs with DCM and 16 control dogs.

Procedure—Myocardial tissues were homogenized, and total fatty acids were extracted and converted to methyl esters. Myocardial concentrations of fatty acids were analyzed by use of gas chromatography and reported as corrected percentages.

Results—The amount of docosatetraenoic acid (C22:4 n-6) was significantly higher in myocardial samples from dogs with DCM (range, 0.223% to 0.774%; median, 0.451%), compared with the amount in samples obtained from control dogs (range, 0.166% to 0.621%; median, 0.280%). There were no significant differences between DCM and control dogs for concentrations of any other myocardial fatty acids.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although concentrations of most myocardial fatty acids did not differ significantly between dogs with DCM and control dogs, the concentration of docosatetraenoic acid was significantly higher in dogs with DCM. Additional investigation in a larger population is warranted to determine whether this is a primary or secondary effect of the underlying disease and whether alterations in fatty acids may be a target for intervention in dogs with DCM. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:1483–1486)
Evaluation of changes in vertical ground reaction forces as indicators of meniscal damage after transection of the cranial cruciate ligament in dogs
Authors: Trumble Troy N. , Billinghurst R. Clark , Bendele Alison M. , McIlwraith C. Wayne
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether decreases in peak vertical force of the hind limb after transection of the cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) would be indicative of medial meniscal damage in dogs.

Animals—39 purpose-bred adult male Walker Hounds.

Procedure—The right CrCL was transected arthroscopically. Force plate measurements of the right hind limb were made prior to and 2, 4, 10, and 18 weeks after transection of the CrCL. Only dogs with ≥ 10% decreases in peak vertical force after week 2 were considered to have potential meniscal damage. Dogs that did not have ≥ 10% decreases in peak vertical force at any time point after week 2 were assigned to group 1. Group 2 dogs had ≥ 10% decreases in peak vertical force from weeks 2 to 4 only. Group 3 and 4 dogs had ≥ 10% decreases in peak vertical force from weeks 4 to 10 only or from weeks 10 to 18 only, respectively. Damage to menisci and articular cartilage was graded at week 18, and grades for groups 2 to 4 were compared with those of group 1.

Results—The percentage change in peak vertical force and impulse area was significantly different in groups 2 (n = 4), 3 (4), and 4 (4) at the end of each measurement period (weeks 4, 10, and 18, respectively) than in group 1 (27). The meniscal grade for groups 2 to 4 was significantly higher than for group 1. A ≥ 10% decrease in peak vertical force had sensitivity of 52% and accuracy of 72% for identifying dogs with moderate to severe medial meniscal damage.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In dogs with transected or ruptured CrCLs, force plate analysis can detect acute exacerbation of lameness, which may be the result of secondary meniscal damage, and provide an objective noninvasive technique that delineates the temporal pattern of medial meniscal injury. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:156–163)
Distribution of power across the hind limb joints in Labrador Retrievers and Greyhounds
Authors: Colborne G. Robert , Innes John F. , Comerford Eithne J. , Owen Martin R. , Fuller Cathy J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To quantify angular excursions; net joint moments; and powers across the stifle, tarsal, and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints in Labrador Retrievers and Greyhounds and investigate differences in joint mechanics between these 2 breeds of dogs.

Animals—12 clinically normal dogs (6 Greyhounds and 6 Labrador Retrievers) with no history of hind limb lameness.

Procedure—Small retroreflective markers were applied to the skin over the pelvic limb joints, and a 4- camera kinematic system captured data at 200 Hz in tandem with force platform data while the dogs trotted on a runway. Breed-specific morphometric data were combined with kinematic and force data in an inverse-dynamics solution for stance-phase net joint moments and powers at the stifle, tarsal, and MTP joints.

Results—There were gross differences in kinematic patterns between Greyhounds and Labradors. At the stifle and tarsal joints, moment and power patterns were similar in shape, but amplitudes were larger for the Greyhounds. The MTP joint was a net absorber of energy, and this was greater in the Greyhounds. Greyhounds had a positive phase across the stifle, tarsal, and MTP joints at the end of stance for an active push-off, whereas for the Labrador Retrievers, the only positive phase was across the tarsus, and this was small, compared with values for the Greyhounds.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Gross differences in pelvic limb mechanics are evident between Greyhounds and Labrador Retrievers. Joint kinetics in specific dogs should be compared against breed-specific patterns. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:1563–1571)
Validation of pressure measurements and electromyographic results for the uterus of cattle during the early postpartum period
Authors: Bajcsy Árpád Csaba , Weijden Gijsbert C. van der , Doornenbal Arie , Breeveld-Dwarkasing Vidya N. A. , Jong Rineke C. de , Szenci Ottó , Taverne Marcel A. M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate methods for on-farm measurements
of uterine contractility in postpartum dairy
cows by comparing data simultaneously recorded by
use of 2 intrauterine pressure (IUP) devices and quantified
electromyographic (EMG) signals.

Animals—5 cows during the first 48 hours after parturition.

Procedure—2 EMG electrodes were implanted on
the surface of the gravid uterine horn. Parturition was
induced by injection of a prostaglandin F2α analogue
at day 274 of gestation. An open-tip catheter and pressure
microtransducer were transcervically inserted
and affixed to a caruncle immediately after calving.
Changes in IUP were recorded concurrent with EMG
recordings during 2-hour periods at 2, 6, 12, 18, 24,
36, and 48 hours after parturition. Novel acquisition
and analysis software programs were used with a digital
data-filtering capability for evaluation of IUP and
EMG signals.

Results—The method for intrauterine fixation of the 2
pressure measurement instruments was effective
and allowed easy, externally guided removal of the
devices 48 hours after parturition. There was a high
correlation between the data obtained by the 2 pressure
measuring systems. Good correlation was also
found between pressure data obtained by the open-tip
catheter system and EMG signals. Although the
quantified IUP and EMG signals were highly comparable,
synchronization was not always evident during
visual inspection of these signals.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The open-tip
IUP catheter system with a special fixation method is
suitable for use in on-farm studies. It will enable
investigators to record natural and pharmacologically
influenced uterine contractility in early postpartum
dairy cows. (Am J Vet Res 2005;66:1605–1615)
Effects of cecropin B transgene expression on Mannheimia haemolytica serotype 1 colonization of the nasal mucosa of calves
Authors: Boudreaux Charles M. , Corstvet Richard E. , Cooper Richard K. , Enright Frederick M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To express a cecropin B transgene on bovine nasal mucosa and determine the effect onMannheimia haemolyticaserotype 1 (S1) colonization.

Animals—27 crossbred beef calves.

Procedure—The antibacterial efficacy of cecropin B againstM haemolyticaS1 was first determined by measuring its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The peptide was also diluted in pooled bovine nasal secretions, and its antibacterial activity was evaluated. The nasal passages of 16 calves were aerosolized with 25, 50, or 100 µg of plasmid DNA/nostril, whereas 11 control calves were aerosolized with only the transfection reagent. In 2 of the experiments, 12 treated and 8 control calves were exposed intranasally with an aerosol ofM haemolyticaS1. Nasal swab specimens and secretions were collected and analyzed by use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time PCR, real-time reverse-transcriptase PCR, ELISA, and bacterial culture.

Results—In vitro, cecropin B inhibitedM haemolyticaS1 at an MIC of 2 µg/mL and its antibacterial activity was not affected by proteolytic activity in nasal secretions. Cecropin B transgene expression was detected in calves transfected with 50 or 100 µg of DNA/nostril. Antibacterial activity againstM haemolyticaS1 was observed in all calves transfected with 100 µg of DNA/nostril but in only 2 of the 4 calves transfected with 50 µg of DNA/nostril.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In vitro, cecropin B has an effective antibacterial activity againstM haemolyticaS1 and can prevent colonization of the nasal mucosa after transfection of a vector expressing cecropin B in vivo. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:1922–1930)
Use of a von Frey device for evaluation of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of morphine after intravenous administration as an infusion or multiple doses in dogs
Authors: KuKanich Butch , Lascelles B. Duncan X. , Papich Mark G.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of morphine after IV administration as an infusion or multiple doses in dogs by use of a von Frey (vF) device.

Animals—6 dogs.

Procedure—In the first 2 crossover experiments of a 3-way crossover study, morphine or saline (0.9%) solution was administered via IV infusion. Loading doses and infusion rates were administered to attain targeted plasma concentrations of 10, 20, 30, and 40 ng/mL. In the third experiment, morphine (0.5 mg/kg) was administered IV every 2 hours for 3 doses. The vF thresholds were measured hourly for 8 hours. Plasma concentrations of morphine were measured by highpressure liquid chromatography.

Results—No significant changes in vF thresholds were observed during infusion of saline solution. The vF thresholds were significantly increased from 5 to 8 hours during the infusion phase, corresponding to targeted morphine plasma concentrations > 30 ng/mL and infusion rates ≥ 0.15 ± 0.02 mg/kg/h. The maximal effect (EMAX) was 78 ± 11% (percentage change from baseline), and the effective concentration to attain a 50% maximal response (EC50) was 29.5 ± 5.4 ng/mL. The vF thresholds were significantly increased from 1 to 7 hours during the multiple-dose phase; the EC50and EMAX were 23.9 ± 4.7 ng/mL and 173 ± 58%, respectively. No significant differences in half-life, volume of distribution, or clearance between the first and last dose of morphine were detected.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Morphine administered via IV infusion (0.15 ± 0.02 mg/kg/h) and multiple doses (0.5 mg/kg, IV, every 2 hours for 3 doses) maintained significant antinociception in dogs. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:1968–1974)
Comparison of gross and histologic tissue responses of skin incisions closed by use of absorbable subcuticular staples, cutaneous metal staples, and polyglactin 910 suture in pigs
Authors: Fick Jennifer L. , Novo Roberto E. , Kirchhof Nicole
Published: December 2005

Objective—To assess gross and histologic tissue
responses of skin incisions closed by use of
absorbable subcuticular staples, cutaneous metal staples,
and polyglactin 910 suture in pigs.

Animals—8 purpose-bred disease-free pigs.

Procedure—Pigs were randomly allocated to 1 of 4
groups from which tissues were collected after
death on postoperative days (PODs) 7, 14, 21, or
42. In each pig, 4 incisions were made; 1 was
closed subcuticularly with 3-0 polyglactin 910
suture, 1 was closed with metal staples, and 2
were closed with absorbable subcuticular staples.
Incision sites were grossly evaluated every 3 days
after closure. At necropsy, incision sites and surrounding
tissues were examined histologically; a
histopathologic scoring system was used to quantitate
healing and tissue response directed against
the closure material.

Results—Postoperatively, the metal staples induced
a severe inflammatory response, compared with minimal
inflammation associated with the suture or
absorbable subcuticular staples. Histologic evaluation
of incisions on PODs 7, 14, and 21 revealed less
severe inflammation associated with absorbable subcuticular
staples than that associated with the other
materials.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated
that absorbable subcuticular staples induced a
less severe inflammatory response in the early
stages of healing in pigs, compared with other commonly
used methods of wound closure. Use of
absorbable staples potentially combines the benefits
of subcuticular closure with the speed and precision
of staple placement. (Am J Vet Res
2005;66:1975–1984)
Effect of romifidine on the nociceptive withdrawal reflex and temporal summation in conscious horses
Authors: Spadavecchia Claudia , Arendt-Nielsen Lars , Andersen Ole K. , Spadavecchia Luciano , Schatzmann Urs
Published: December 2005

Objective—To investigate the action of a single IV
administration of romifidine on the thresholds of the
nociceptive withdrawal reflex (NWR) and temporal
summation in conscious horses.

Animals—10 adult horses.

Procedure—Single electrical stimulations were
applied on the digital nerves to evoke NWR from the
left forelimb and hind limb. Repeated electrical stimulations
(10 stimuli, 5 Hz) were given to obtain temporal
summation. Surface electromyographic reflex
activity was recorded from the common digital extensor
and cranial tibial muscles. After baseline assessment
of NWR and temporal summation thresholds,
romifidine (80 µg·kg−1, IV) was administered.
Successive determinations of NWR and temporal
summation thresholds were performed 5, 25, and 55
minutes after administration.

Results—Romifidine significantly increased the current
intensities necessary to evoke NWR and temporal
summation in forelimbs and hind limbs of horses.
Values were significantly higher than baseline values
55 minutes after romifidine administration. After
administration of romifidine, a facilitation of reflex
components of tactile origin was observed when
repeated stimulations were applied.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results confirm
antinociceptive activity of romifidine and may
represent an objective demonstration of the wellknown
hypersensitivity to tactile stimuli observed in
horses receiving α2-adrenoreceptor agonists in clinical
practice. Romifidine can be included in analgesic
and anesthetic protocols to provide additional analgesia
in horses. (Am J Vet Res 2005;66:1992–1998)
Effect of intensity of fecal pat sampling on estimates of Escherichia coli O157 prevalence
Authors: Echeverry Alejandro , Loneragan Guy H. , Wagner Bruce A. , Brashears Mindy M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate site-to-site variation within
fecal pats from cattle with regard to detection of
Escherichia coli O157 and determine the effect on the
accuracy of prevalence estimates of assay of multiple
samples collected from the same fecal pat.

Sample Population—120 freshly voided fecal pats
collected from 2 beef feedlots.

Procedures—5 samples were systematically collected
from each fecal pat and analyzed for E coli O157 via
selective preenrichment techniques, immunomagnetic
separation, and biochemical tests. Presumptive isolates
were definitively identified via agglutination
assays and polymerase chain reaction techniques. Best
estimators of prevalence were calculated from the distribution
of E coli O157–positive samples per pat.

Results—Of the 120 fecal pats, 96, 13, 4, 2, 3, and 2
fecal pats had 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 E coli O157–positive
samples, respectively. The greatest estimate of E coli
O157 prevalence (20%) was achieved when all 5 samples
were assessed; this estimate represented a 2.4-
fold increase in prevalence, compared with that provided
via analysis of 1 sample/pat (8.2%). Compared
with assessment of 5 sites/pat, the relative sensitivity
of detecting an E coli O157–positive fecal pat via
analysis of 1 site/pat was 40.1%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that estimates of E coli O157 prevalence derived
from sampling of 1 location/pat are likely underestimates
of the true prevalence of this pathogen in fecal
pats (and by extension, cattle). Additional research is
warranted to confirm these results in situations of
high and low prevalence and across different feedlots.
(Am J Vet Res 2005;66:2023–2027)
Evaluation of the respiratory elimination kinetics of selenium after oral administration in sheep
Authors: Tiwary Asheesh K. , Panter Kip E. , Stegelmeier Bryan L. , James Lynn F. , Hall Jeffery O.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the respiratory excretion and elimination kinetics of organic and inorganic selenium after oral administration in sheep.

Animals—38 crossbred sheep.

Procedures—Selenium was administered PO to sheep as a single dose of 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 mg/kg as sodium selenite or selenomethionine. Expired air was collected and analyzed from all sheep at 4, 8, and 16 hours after administration.

Results—Clinical signs consistent with selenium intoxication were seen in treatment groups given sodium selenite but not in treatment groups given the equivalent amount of selenium as selenomethionine. However, a distinct garlic-like odor was evident in the breath of all sheep receiving 2 to 4 mg of selenium/kg. The intensity of odor in the breath did not correlate with clinical signs in affected animals receiving sodium selenite treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The concentration of selenium in expired air was greater in sheep receiving selenium as selenomethionine than sodium selenite. The concentration of selenium in expired air from sheep receiving high doses of selenium (3 and 4 mg of selenium/kg) was larger and selenium was expired for a longer duration than the concentration of selenium in expired air from sheep receiving low doses of selenium (1 and 2 mg of selenium/kg). (Am J Vet Res2005;66:2142–2148)
Pharmacokinetics of carvedilol after intravenous and oral administration in conscious healthy dogs
Authors: Arsenault Wendy G. , Boothe Dawn M. , Gordon Sonya G. , Miller Matthew W. , Chalkley Jeffrey R. , Petrikovics Ilona
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the pharmacokinetics of
carvedilol administered IV and orally and determine
the dose of carvedilol required to maintain plasma
concentrations associated with anticipated therapeutic
efficacy when administered orally to dogs.

Animals—8 healthy dogs.

Procedures—Blood samples were collected for 24
hours after single doses of carvedilol were administered
IV (175 µg/kg) or PO (1.5 mg/kg) by use of a
crossover nonrandomized design. Carvedilol concentrations
were detected in plasma by use of high-performance
liquid chromatography. Plasma drug concentration
versus time curves were subjected to noncompartmental
pharmacokinetic analysis.

Results—The median peak concentration (extrapolated)
of carvedilol after IV administration was
476 ng/mL (range, 203 to 1,920 ng/mL), elimination
half-life (t1/2) was 282 minutes (range, 19 to 1,021
minutes), and mean residence time (MRT) was 360
minutes (range, 19 to 819 minutes). Volume of distribution
at steady state was 2.0 L/kg (range, 0.7 to 4.3
L/kg). After oral administration of carvedilol, the median
peak concentration was 24 µg/mL (range, 9 to
173 µg/mL), time to maximum concentration was 90
minutes (range, 60 to 180 minutes), t1/2 was 82 minutes
(range, 64 to 138 minutes), and MRT was 182
minutes (range, 112 to 254 minutes). Median bioavailability
after oral administration of carvedilol was 2.1%
(range, 0.4% to 54%).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although
results suggested a 3-hour dosing interval on the
basis of MRT, pharmacodynamic studies investigating
the duration of β-adrenoreceptor blockade provide a
more accurate basis for determining the dosing interval
of carvedilol. (Am J Vet Res 2005;66:2172–2176)
Investigation of the effect of black walnut extract on in vitro ion transport and structure of equine colonic mucosa
Authors: McConnico Rebecca S. , Stokes Ashley M. , Eades Susan C. , Moore Rustin M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To examine the secretory response (in the presence and absence of prostaglandin inhibition) in vitro and structural alterations of colonic mucosa in horses after intragastric administration of black walnut extract (BWE).

Animals—14 adult horses.

Procedure—Seven horses were administered BWE intragastrically and monitored for 11 hours. Tissue samples were obtained from the right ventral, left ventral, and right dorsal colons (RVC, LVC, and RDC, respectively) of the 7 BWE-treated and 7 control horses. Tissue samples were examined via light microscopy, and the extent of hemorrhage, edema, and granulocytic cellular infiltration (neutrophils and eosinophils) was graded. Colonic mucosal segments were incubated with or without flunixin meglumine (FLM) for 240 minutes; spontaneous electrical potential difference and short-circuit current (Isc) were recorded and used to calculate mucosal resistance.

Results—Colonic tissues from BWE-treated horses (with or without FLM exposure) had an overall greater Isc during the 240-minute incubation period, compared with tissues from control horses. The resistance pattern in RVC, LVC, and RDC samples (with or without FLM exposure) from BWE-treated horses was decreased overall, compared with control tissues (with or without FLM exposure). Histologically, colonic mucosal tissues from BWE-treated horses had more severe inflammation (involving primarily eosinophils), edema, and hemorrhage, compared with tissue from control horses.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In horses, BWE administration appears to cause an inflammatory response in colonic mucosal epithelium that results in mucosal barrier compromise as indicated by decreased mucosal resistance with presumed concomitant electrogenic chloride secretory response, which is not associated with prostaglandin mediation. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:443–449)
Evaluation of the effect of routine histologic processing on the size of skin samples obtained from dogs
Authors: Reimer S. Brent , Séguin Bernard , DeCock Hilde E. , Walsh Peter J. , Kass Philip H.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the effects that routine histologic
processing has on the dimensions of samples
of normal skin of dogs and assess whether the inclusion
of a muscle or fascial layer in such samples alters
those effects.

Sample Population—Skin samples obtained from 6
medium-sized adult dogs with grossly normal skin.

Procedure—From each dog, skin samples (with or
without underlying fascia or muscle) were obtained
from 3 sites bilaterally (6 samples/dog) and processed
routinely for histologic evaluation; their dimensions
were measured at intervals during the experiment.

Results—As a result of processing, skin samples
decreased in size (combined percentage change in
length and width) and increased in thickness, compared
with their original dimensions. Samples without
fascia or muscle decreased in size by 21.1% to 32.0%
and increased in thickness by 45.1% to 75.8%. The
site of sample origin influenced processing-associated
changes in sample size but did not affect the
change in thickness. Decreases in dimensions did not
vary with inclusion of fascia but did vary with inclusion
of muscle. The change in thickness did not vary
with inclusion of a layer of fascia or muscle.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Processing of
skin samples obtained from dogs for histologic evaluation
can cause changes in sample dimensions; samples
may decrease in length and width by as much as
32% and increase in thickness by 75.8%, compared
with their original dimensions. The presence of muscle
in canine skin samples can restrict the amount of
shrinkage in length or width associated with processing.
(Am J Vet Res 2005;66:500–505)
Relationships between hoof-acceleration patterns of galloping horses and dynamic properties of the track
Authors: Ratzlaff Marc H. , Wilson Patrick D. , Hutton David V. , Slinker Bryan K.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To define relationships between hoofacceleration patterns of galloping horses and dynamic properties of the track.

Animals—8 Thoroughbred horses without lameness.

Procedure—Acceleration-time curves were recorded by use of accelerometers attached to each hoof as each horse galloped over the track straightaway. Four sessions were conducted for each horse, with the track surface modified by sequentially adding water before each session. These acceleration-time curves were analyzed to determine peak accelerations during the support phase of the stride. Track dynamic properties (hardness, rebound, deceleration rate, rebound rate, and penetration) were recorded with a track-testing device. Moisture content and dry density were measured from soil samples. Stepwise multiple regression was used to identify relationships between hoof-acceleration variables and track dynamic properties.

Results—Track rebound rate was most consistently related to hoof variables, especially through an inverse relationship with negative acceleration peaks for all hooves. Also, rebound rate was related to initial acceleration peak during propulsion of the hooves of the forelimb and the nonlead hind limb as well as to the second acceleration peak during propulsion of the lead hooves of the hind limb and nonlead forelimb.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The inverse relationship between track rebound rate and negative acceleration peaks for all hooves reflects the most important dynamic property of a track. Any factor that reduces negative acceleration of the hooves will increase stride efficiency by allowing smoother transition from retardation to propulsion and therefore may be important in determining the safety of racing surfaces. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:589–595)
Use of a time-resolved immunofluorometric assay for determination of canine C-reactive protein concentrations in whole blood
Authors: Parra María D. , Tuomola Mika , Cabezas-Herrera Juan , Cerón José J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To develop and validate a time-resolved immunofluorometric assay (TR-IFMA) for measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP) in canine whole blood.

Animals—12 healthy dogs and 35 dogs with inflammatory processes.

Procedure—CRP was isolated from acute-phase serum by affinity chromatography and used as a standard for calibration. Analytic and functional limit of detection and intra-assay and interassay precision were calculated. Accuracy was evaluated by recovery assays and by comparison with results of a commercial ELISA. Correlation between CRP concentrations in whole blood and corresponding plasma fractions was tested by use of TR-IFMA. Stability of blood samples at 4°C was assessed during a 1-month period, and effects of anticoagulants were evaluated. Measurements of CRP in blood samples from 12 healthy dogs were compared with those of 35 dogs with inflammatory diseases.

Results—Analytic and functional limits of detection were 0.53 and 3.26 µg/mL, respectively. Intra-assay and interassay coefficients of variation varied between 2.1% to 8.9% and 8.0% to 12.3%, respectively. Mean recoveries of added CRP were 104% and 114%. Measurements of CRP by use of TR-IFMA and ELISA were highly correlated (R2= 0.97). Measurements of CRP in whole blood and in corresponding plasma fractions by use of TR-IFMA were also highly correlated (R2= 0.97). Neither storage nor use of anticoagulants disturbed measurement of CRP concentrations in whole blood. Concentrations of CRP in whole blood of dogs with inflammation were significantly higher than in healthy dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Determination of CRP concentrations in whole blood may provide a diagnostic test for inflammation in dogs. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:62–66)
Digital blood flow and plasma endothelin concentration in clinically endotoxemic horses
Authors: Menzies-Gow Nicola J. , Bailey Simon R. , Stevens Kim , Katz Lisa , Elliott Jonathan , Marr Celia M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To measure plasma endothelin-1 (ET-1) concentrations and digital blood flow in clinically endotoxemic horses.

Animals—To measure plasma endothelin-1 (ET-1) concentrations and digital blood flow in clinically endotoxemic horses.

Procedure—On days 2 and 5 following surgery, Doppler ultrasonographic digital arterial blood flow measurements were obtained. Hematologic and biochemical analyses were performed, and plasma concentrations of ET-1 and endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide) were determined. A scoring system based on 9 clinical variables was used to assign horses to group B (quartile with greatest cumulative score) or group A (remaining 3 quartiles). Follow-up at 2.5 years was obtained by telephone questionnaire.

Results—For all horses on day 2, median (interquartile values) plasma ET-1 concentrations were 1.4 (0.8, 1.7) pg/mL, whereas on day 5, plasma ET-1 concentrations were 1.0 (0.5, 1.6) pg/mL. On day 2, digital blood flow was 0.057 (0.02, 0.07) mL/min in group A horses and 0.035 (0.02, 0.03) mL/min in group B horses. On day 5, plasma ET-1 concentration was significantly (73%) higher in group B horses, compared with group A horses. Thirty of 36 horses were alive at 2.5 years; group A horses were more likely to have survived (odds ratio, 25; 95% confidence interval, 2.4 to 262). Significant associations were found between an increase in digital pulses, hoof wall temperatures, or both and increased digital blood flow (0.14 vs 0.04 mL/min) on day 2 and increased digital arterial diameter (0.32 vs 0.23 cm) on day 5.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Horses with more severe endotoxemia had decreased digital blood flow, increased plasma ET-1 concentrations, and decreased long-term survival. (Am J Vet Res2005;66:630–636)
Evaluation of the use of anesthesia and analgesia in reptiles
Authors: Read Matt R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine anesthetic techniques and the drugs used to provide anesthesia and analgesia to reptiles.

Design—Mail-out questionnaire.

Sample Population—367 members of the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians.

Procedure—1,091 members listed in the 2002 directory of the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding anesthesia and analgesia.

Results—367 of 1,091 (33.6%) individuals completed the questionnaire; 88.8% used inhalants (particularly isoflurane) for anesthesia, and ketamine, propofol, and butorphanol were the most commonly used injectable agents. Intubation, fluids, and having a dedicated anesthetist were most commonly used for patient support, and pulse oximetry and Doppler ultrasonography were most commonly used for monitoring. Respiratory depression, difficulty monitoring anesthetic depth, prolonged recovery, and hypothermia were the most frequent complications. Nearly all respondents believed that reptiles feel pain, but analgesics were used infrequently for many reasons.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Providing anesthesia in reptiles is difficult, especially regarding anesthetic depth and vital parameters, and methods of support are used less frequently than in domestic species. Provision of analgesia is uncommon. Research regarding pain and its assessment, response to analgesics, and drug pharmacokinetics is needed. Dissemination of this information to practitioners needs to be improved for enhancement of the standard of care for reptiles. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;224:547–552)
Effects of a whole-body spandex garment on rectal temperature and oxygen consumption in healthy dogs
Authors: Reimer S. Brent , Schulz Kurt S. , Mason David R. , Jones James H.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether a full-body spandex
garment would alter rectal temperatures of
healthy dogs at rest in cool and warm environments.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—10 healthy dogs.

Procedures—Each dog was evaluated at a low (20° to
25°C [68° to 77°F]) or high (30° to 35°C [86° to 95°F])
ambient temperature while wearing or not wearing a
commercially available whole-body spandex garment
designed for dogs. Oxygen consumption was measured
by placing dogs in a flow-through indirect
calorimeter for 90 to 120 minutes. Rectal temperature
was measured before dogs were placed in the
calorimeter and after they were removed.

Results—Rectal temperature increased significantly
more at the higher ambient temperature than at the
lower temperature and when dogs were not wearing
the garment than when they were wearing it. The
specific rate of oxygen consumption was significantly
higher at the lower ambient temperature than at the
higher temperature.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that wearing a snug spandex body garment does
not increase the possibility that dogs will overheat
while in moderate ambient temperatures. Instead,
wearing such a garment may enable dogs to better
maintain body temperature during moderate heat
loading. These results suggest that such garments
might be used for purposes such as wound or suture
protection without causing dogs to overheat. (J Am
Vet Med Assoc 2004;224:71–74)
Excision as treatment of dermal melanomatosis in horses: 11 cases (1994–2000)
Authors: Rowe Emma L. , Sullins Kenneth E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether excision was an acceptable treatment for dermal melanomatosis in horses.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—11 horses with dermal melanomatosis involving the perineal, perianal, or perirectal region or ventral surface of the tail in which treatment consisted of tumor excision.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed. Followup information was obtained from owners through telephone interviews.

Results—9 of the 11 horses were alive at the time of follow-up interviews. None of the horses had regrowth at the surgery site where the primary tumor was removed. There were no confirmed clinical signs of internal metastasis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that excision of dermal melanomatosis in horses may be a reasonable treatment option. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:94–96)
Outcome of dogs with mast cell tumors in the inguinal or perineal region versus other cutaneous locations: 124 cases (1990–2001)
Authors: Sfiligoi Gabriella , Rassnick Kenneth M. , Scarlett Janet M. , Northrup Nicole C. , Gieger Tracy L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare clinical outcome of dogs with cutaneous mast cell tumors (MCTs) in the inguinal or perineal region with outcome for dogs with MCTs in other cutaneous locations.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—37 dogs with MCTs in the inguinal or perineal region and 87 dogs with MCTs in other cutaneous locations.

Procedure—Information obtained from the medical records included sex, breed, age, histologic grade of all tumors, number and location of all tumors, tumor size (ie, diameter of the tumor), completeness of surgical excision, treatments administered in addition to surgery, and outcome. In all dogs, the primary treatment consisted of surgical excision.

Results—Disease-free interval and survival time for dogs with MCTs in the inguinal or perineal region were not significantly different from values for dogs with MCTs in other cutaneous locations. Dogs with incompletely excised tumors, dogs with grade III tumors, and dogs that received systemic treatment were 2, 2.5, and 4 times as likely, respectively, to have a relapse. Factors significantly associated with a shorter survival time were age > 8 years, metastatic disease at the time of initial diagnosis, and tumor relapse.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of the present study suggest that dogs with MCTs in the inguinal or perineal region do not have a worse prognosis in regard to disease-free interval or survival time than do dogs with MCTs in other cutaneous locations. Treatment recommendations for dogs with cutaneous MCTs should be based on confirmed predictors of biological behavior, such as histologic grade and clinical stage. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:1368–1374)
Incidence of Coccidioides infection among dogs residing in a region in which the organism is endemic
Authors: Shubitz Lisa F. , Butkiewicz Christine D. , Dial Sharon M. , Lindan Christina P.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the incidence of
Coccidioides infection among dogs residing in a
region in which the organism is endemic (Pima and
Maricopa counties, Arizona) and estimate the rate of
clinical illness.

Design—Community-based longitudinal and crosssectional
studies.

Animals—124 healthy 4- to 6-month-old seronegative
puppies (longitudinal study) and 381 4- to 18-monthold
dogs with unknown serostatus (cross-sectional
study).

Procedure—Dogs in the longitudinal study were tested
at 6-month intervals for at least 1 year for anticoccidioidal
antibodies. Dogs that became ill were evaluated
for coccidioidomycosis. Dogs in the cross-sectional
study were tested for anticoccidioidal antibodies
once, and clinical abnormalities were recorded.

Results—28 of the 104 (27%) dogs that completed
the longitudinal study developed anticoccidioidal antibodies.
Thirty-two of the 381 (8%) dogs in the crosssectional
study had anticoccidioidal antibodies. Five
seropositive dogs in the longitudinal study and 13
seropositive dogs in the cross-sectional study had
clinical signs of disease. The remaining seropositive
dogs were otherwise healthy and were classified as
subclinically infected. Survival analysis indicated that
the cumulative probability of infection by 2 years of
age was 28%, and the cumulative probability of clinical
infection by 2 years of age was 6%. Titers for clinically
and subclinically infected dogs overlapped.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested
that young dogs living in the study area had a
high likelihood of becoming infected with Coccidioides
spp, but few developed clinical illness. Serologic testing
alone was insufficient for a diagnosis of clinical disease
because of the overlap in titers between clinically
and subclinically infected dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2005;226:1846–1850)
Evaluation of Lactobacillus pentosus WE7 for prevention of diarrhea in neonatal foals
Authors: Weese J. Scott , Rousseau Joyce
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the efficacy of Lactobacillus
pentosus WE7, an equine-origin organism with potentially
beneficial in vitro properties, as a probiotic for
prevention of neonatal diarrhea in foals.

Design—Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Animals—153 foals.

Procedure—Foals were enrolled at 24 to 48 hours of
age and randomly assigned to treatment or control
groups. The treatment group received approximately
2 × 1011 CFU of freeze-dried L pentosus WE7 orally
once daily for 7 days, whereas the control group
received a placebo. Clinical monitoring was performed
for 14 days.

Results—Probiotic administration was significantly
associated with development of signs of depression,
anorexia, and colic and the need for veterinary examination
and treatment. Probiotic-treated foals also had
more days of diarrhea, compared with the control
group, although not significantly. In a multivariate
model, probiotic administration was significantly
associated with development of diarrhea and diarrhea
plus additional clinical abnormalities.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration
of L pentosus WE7 did not prevent diarrhea; rather, it
was associated with development of diarrhea and,
most importantly, development of diarrhea plus additional
clinical abnormalities and the need for veterinary
intervention. The promising in vitro properties of
L pentosus WE7 were not evident in vivo. Results
raise concern about the variety of untested probiotic
products that are commercially available. Safety and
efficacy testing needs to be performed for all potential
equine probiotics. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;226:
2031–2034)
Effects of cyclosporine A on clinical and histologic abnormalities in dogs with sebaceous adenitis
Authors: Linek Monika , Boss Christina , Haemmerling Renate , Hewicker-Trautwein Marion , Mecklenburg Lars
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the effects of cyclosporine A in the treatment of sebaceous adenitis in dogs.

Design—Open-label clinical trial.

Animals—12 dogs with sebaceous adenitis.

Procedure—Dogs were treated with cyclosporine A at a dosage of 5 mg/kg/d (2.3 mg/lb/d), PO, for 12 months and reevaluated every 4 months. A clinical score was calculated by grading the extent of alopecia and severity of follicular casts as absent, mild, moderate, or severe in each of 17 body regions. Biopsy specimens were obtained and examined histologically and by means of immunohistochemical staining.

Results—Mean clinical score was significantly decreased, compared with baseline score, after 4 months of treatment and remained low after 8 and 12 months. Histologically, the severity of inflammation was significantly decreased, as were numbers of macrophages, CD3+T cells, and major histocompatibility complex class II-expressing cells. The percentage of hair follicles with sebaceous glands increased, suggesting regeneration of sebaceous glands. Clinical signs recurred when cyclosporine administration was discontinued.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that administration of cyclosporine A at a dosage of 5 mg/kg/d may reduce the inflammation associated with sebaceous adenitis in dogs. Long-term treatment appears to be neccessary to control the disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:59–64)
Prevalence, outcome, and health consequences associated with persistent infection with bovine viral diarrhea virus in feedlot cattle
Authors: Loneragan Guy H. , Thomson Daniel U. , Montgomery Donald L. , Mason Gary L. , Larson Robert L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To estimate prevalence of cattle persistently infected (PI) with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) at arrival at a feedlot, prevalence of chronically ill and dead PI cattle, and the magnitude of excess disease attributable to a PI animal.

Design—Cross-sectional and cohort studies.

Animals—2,000 cattle at the time they arrived at a feedlot, 1,383 chronically ill cattle from 7 feedlots, and 1,585 dead cattle from a single feedlot.

Procedure—Skin biopsy specimens were collected and evaluated via immunohistochemistry. Cattle were characterized as either PI or not PI with BVDV on the basis of characteristic immunostaining. Follow-up was obtained for the 2,000 cattle from which samples were collected at arrival, and health outcomes were determined for cattle exposed and not exposed to a PI animal.

Results—Prevalence of PI cattle was 0.3% at arrival, 2.6% in chronically ill cattle, and 2.5% in dead cattle. Risk of initial treatment for respiratory tract disease was 43% greater in cattle exposed to a PI animal, compared with those not exposed to a PI animal. Overall, 15.9% of initial respiratory tract disease events were attributable to exposure to a PI animal.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Relatively few PI cattle arrive at feedlots. However, those cattle are more likely to require treatment for respiratory tract disease and either become chronically ill or die than cattle that are not PI. In addition, they are associated with an increase in the incidence of respiratory tract disease of in-contact cattle. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:595–601)
Relationship between antimicrobial susceptibility of clinical mastitis pathogens and treatment outcome in cows
Authors: Hoe Fernanda G. H. , Ruegg Pamela L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether there was any association
between results of in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility
testing of pathogens isolated from cows with mild
or moderate clinical mastitis and outcome of treatment.

Design—Observational study.

Animals—133 cows with mild or moderate mastitis
in a single quarter.

Procedure—Cows were treated by means of intramammary
infusion of pirlimycin (50 mg) in the
affected quarter once daily for 2 days; additional
intramammary treatments with the same product
were administered if the milk continued to appear
abnormal. Duration of treatment and days until clinical
cure were recorded. Bacterial isolates were
tested for antimicrobial susceptibility by means of a
broth micro-dilution technique.

Results—Environmental streptococci, coliforms, and
coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp were the most
commonly isolated pathogens. Duration of treatment
and days until clinical cure were not significantly different
for cows from which pathogens that were susceptible or
resistant to pirlimycin were isolated. Bacteriologic cure
rates 14 and 21 days after treatment were not significantly
different for cows with mastitis caused by susceptible
or resistant bacteria. Similar results were found
when data only from cows with mastitis caused by
gram-positive isolates were analyzed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In the present
study, differences in clinical outcome for cows with
mild or moderate mastitis that could be attributed to
differences in results of in vitro susceptibility testing
were not identified. The use of in vitro susceptibility
testing to guide intramammary mastitis treatment
cannot be recommended on the basis of results of
this study. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;227:1461–1468)