bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma concentration of ionized calcium in healthy iguanas
Authors: Dennis Patricia M. , Bennett R. Avery , Harr Kendal E. , Lock Brad A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To measure plasma concentration of ionized
calcium in healthy green iguanas.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—9 juvenile and 21 (10 male, 11 female) adult
iguanas.

Procedure—Blood samples were obtained from each
iguana, and plasma calcium, glucose, phosphorus, uric
acid, total protein, albumin, globulin, potassium, and
ionized calcium concentrations, aspartate transaminase
(AST) activity, and pH were measured. Heparinized
blood was used for measurement of ionized calcium
concentration and blood pH. A CBC was also performed
to assess the health of the iguanas.

Results—Significant differences were not detected
among the 3 groups (juveniles, males, and females)
with regard to ionized calcium concentration. Mean
ionized calcium concentration measured in blood was
1.47 ± 0.105 mmol/L. Significant differences were
detected between juveniles and adults for values of
phosphorus, glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin,
and AST activity.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Ionized calcium
concentration provides a clinical measurement of
the physiologically active calcium in circulation.
Evaluation of physiologically active calcium in animals
with suspected calcium imbalance that have total
plasma calcium concentrations within reference
range or in gravid animals with considerably increased
total plasma calcium concentrations is vital for determining
a therapeutic plan. Accurate evaluation of calcium
status will provide assistance in the diagnosis of
renal disease and seizures and allow for better evaluation
of the health status of gravid female iguanas. (J
Am Vet Med Assoc 2001;219:326–328)
Effect of maternal antibodies on induction and persistence of vaccine-induced immune responses against bovine viral diarrhea virus type II in young calves
Authors: Ellis John , West Keith , Cortese Victor , Konoby Carrie , Weigel Dan
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effect of maternally derived antibodies on induction of protective immune responses against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) type II in young calves vaccinated with a modified-live bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) type I vaccine.

Design—Blinded controlled challenge study.

Animals—24 neonatal Holstein and Holstein-cross calves that were deprived of maternal colostrum and fed pooled colostrum that contained a high concentration of (n = 6) or no (18) antibodies to BVDV.

Procedure—At 10 to 14 days of age, 6 seropositive and 6 seronegative calves were given a combination vaccine containing modified-live BVDV type I. All calves were kept in isolation for 4.5 months. Six calves of the remaining 12 untreated calves were vaccinated with the same combination vaccine at approximately 4 months of age. Three weeks later, all calves were challenged intranasally with a virulent BVDV type II.

Results—Seronegative unvaccinated calves and seropositive calves that were vaccinated at 2 weeks of age developed severe disease, and 4 calves in each of these groups required euthanasia. Seronegative calves that were vaccinated at 2 weeks or 4 months of age developed only mild or no clinical signs of disease.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate that a single dose of a modified-live BVDV type-I vaccine given at 10 to 14 days of age can protect susceptible young calves from virulent BVDV type II infection for at least 4 months, but high concentrations of BVDV-specific maternally derived antibodies can block the induction of the response. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:351–356)
Quality of tissue specimens obtained endoscopically from the duodenum of dogs and cats
Authors: Willard Michael D. , Lovering Sandra L. , Cohen Noah D. , Weeks Brad R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate quality of duodenal tissue
specimens obtained endoscopically from dogs and
cats and submitted to 1 of 2 diagnostic laboratories
for evaluation.

Design—Case series.

Sample Population—Slides from 50 consecutive
canine and 50 consecutive feline endoscopically
obtained duodenal tissue specimens submitted to
laboratory 1 and 49 consecutive canine and 46 consecutive
feline specimens submitted to laboratory 2.

Procedure—Slides were examined independently by
3 investigators, and each tissue piece on each slide
was classified as clearly inadequate, questionable, or
clearly adequate on the basis of 4 criteria. An overall
score was then assigned to the slide.

Results—Slides from laboratory 1 were more likely to
be scored as clearly adequate and less likely to be
scored as clearly inadequate than slides from laboratory
2. Clearly adequate slides from laboratory 1 had
a higher number of clearly adequate pieces of tissue
than did clearly adequate slides from laboratory 2.
Slides scored as clearly adequate had a higher number
of individual tissue pieces than did slides scored
as clearly inadequate.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that the quality of endoscopically obtained duodenal
tissue specimens submitted to laboratories can
vary, possibly because of differences in experience of
individuals collecting biopsy specimens. Results suggest
that at least 8 individual tissue pieces should be
submitted when performing endoscopic biopsy of the
duodenum in dogs and cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2001;219:474–479)
Prevalence of antibodies against Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis among beef cow-calf herds
Authors: Dargatz David A. , Byrum Beverly A. , Hennager Steven G. , Barber Linda K. , Kopral Christine A. , Wagner Bruce A. , Wells Scott J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To estimate the prevalence ofMycobacterium aviumsubspparatuberculosisinfection among cows on beef operations in the United States.

Design—Cross-sectional seroprevalence study.

Sample Population—A convenience sample of 380 herds in 21 states.

Procedure—Serum samples were obtained from 10,371 cows and tested for antibodies to M avium subspparatuberculosiswith a commercial ELISA . Producers were interviewed to collect data on herd management practices.

Results—30 (7.9%) herds had 1 or more animals for which results of the ELISA were positive; 40 (0.4%) of the individual cow samples yielded positive results. None of the herd management practices studied were found to be associated with whether any animals in the herd would be positive for antibodies toM aviumsubspparatuberculosis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the prevalence of antibodies toM aviumsubspparatuberculosisamong beef cows in the United States is low. Herds with seropositive animals were widely distributed geographically. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:497–501)
Risk factors for development of status epilepticus in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy and effects of status epilepticus on outcome and survival time: 32 cases (1990–1996)
Authors: Saito Miyoko , Muñana Karen R. , Sharp Nicholas J. H. , Olby Natasha J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify risk factors for episodes of status epilepticus (SE) in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy and determine how SE affects long-term outcome and survival time.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—32 dogs with idiopathic epilepsy.

Procedure—Information on signalment, seizure onset, initiation of treatment, anticonvulsants administered, number of episodes of SE, overall seizure control, and long-term outcome was obtained from medical records and through telephone interviews. Differences between dogs that did and did not have episodes of SE were evaluated statistically.

Results—19 (59%) dogs had 1 or more episodes of SE. Body weight was the only variable significantly different between dogs that did and did not have episodes of SE. Thirteen dogs (9 that did not have episodes of SE and 4 that did) were still alive at the time of the study and were ≥ 10 years old. Six of the 19 (32%) dogs that had episodes of SE died of causes directly attributed to the seizure disorder. Mean life spans of dogs that did and did not have episodes of SE were 8.3 and 11.3 years, respectively. Survival time was significantly different between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that a substantial percentage of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy will have episodes of SE. Dogs with greater body weights were more likely to have episodes of SE, and early appropriate seizure treatment did not appear to decrease the risk that dogs would have episodes. Most dogs with idiopathic epilepsy had an expected life span, but survival time was shorter for dogs that had episodes of SE. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:618–623)
Predictors of outcome after dorsal decompressive laminectomy for degenerative lumbosacral stenosis in dogs: 69 cases (1987–1997)
Authors: De Risio Luisa , Sharp Nicholas J. H. , Olby Natasha J. , Muñana Karen R. , Thomas William B.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify predictive factors of long-term outcome after dorsal decompressive laminectomy for the treatment of degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLSS) in dogs.

Design—Retrospective study.

Sample Population—69 client-owned dogs.

Procedure—Medical records of dogs that had undergone dorsal laminectomy at North Carolina State University and the University of Tennessee between 1987 and 1997 were reviewed. Dogs with diskospondylitis, traumatic lesions, or neoplasia of the lumbosacral region were excluded. All dogs had evidence of cauda equina compression on myelography, epidurography, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging, along with subsequent confirmation of the lesion at surgery. Follow-up was performed by telephone inquiries to the referring veterinarian, the owner, or both, using a detailed questionnaire.

Results—The outcome was excellent or good in 54 of 69 (78%) dogs over a mean follow-up period of 38 ± 22 months. Five of these 54 dogs had been incontinent for a median of 2 weeks prior to surgery. Six of the 15 dogs with a poor outcome had been incontinent for a median of 8 weeks before surgery. A significant correlation was detected between the presence of urinary and fecal incontinence prior to surgery and outcome. When duration of signs was considered, urinary incontinence was the only variable that significantly affected outcome.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Decompressive laminectomy is an effective treatment for DLSS, although dogs with urinary or fecal incontinence have a worse prognosis than dogs that are continent before surgery. Chronic urinary incontinence is a predictor of poor outcome for dogs with DLSS. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:624–628)
Association between exposure to Neospora caninum and milk production in dairy cows
Authors: Hernandez Jorge , Risco Carlos , Donovan Arthur
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine association between exposure toNeospora caninumand milk production in dairy cows.

Design—Prospective observational study.

Animals—565 Holstein cows.

Procedure—Cows were classified as seropositive or seronegative toN caninumwithin 7 days after calving by use of a kinetic ELISA. Milk production was compared between seropositive and seronegative cows.

Results—On the basis of 305-day mature equivalent milk production data, seropositive cows produced less milk (2.8 lb/cow per day) than did seronegative cows. In addition, analysis of results throughout the first 300 days of lactation revealed that after adjusting for effects of lactation number, calving season, clinical mastitis, and lameness, milk weight of seropositive cows was 2.5 lb/cow per day less than that of seronegative cows.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Exposure toN caninumwas associated with a 3 to 4% decrease in milk production. A decrease in milk production of 800 lb/cow for a typical 305-day lactation represents a loss of $128/cow. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001; 219:632–635)
Seroprevalence of antibodies against equine arteritis virus in horses residing in the United States and imported horses
Authors: Hullinger Pamela J. , Gardner Ian A. , Hietala Sharon K. , Ferraro Gregory L. , MacLachlan N. James
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare seroprevalence of antibodies against equine arteritis virus (EAV) in horses residing in the United States with that of imported horses.

Design—Serologic survey.

Sample Population—Serum samples from 364 horses on 44 equine operations in California and 226 horses imported from various countries.

Procedure—Serum samples were collected from each imported horse and from up to 20 horses on each operation. For resident horses, the number of sampled horses on each operation was determined on the basis of the number of horses on the operation. Samples were tested for antibodies against EAV by use of a serum neutralization test.

Results—1.9% of resident horses and 18.6% of imported horses were seropositive to EAV, including 16.1% of imported stallions.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate that the EAV seroprevalence of horses residing in California is considerably lower than that of imported horses, including imported stallions. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;219:946–949)
Comparison of transdermal administration of fentanyl versus intramuscular administration of butorphanol for analgesia after onychectomy in cats
Authors: Gellasch Kelly L. , Kruse-Elliott Kris T. , Osmond Christian S. , Shih Andre N. C. , Bjorling Dale E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare postoperative discomfort assessed by subjective pain score and plasma cortisol concentrations in cats undergoing onychectomy that received analgesia by use of transdermal fentanyl (TDF) patches or an IM injection of butorphanol.

Design—Randomized prospective clinical trial.

Animals—22 client-owned cats weighing 2.2 to 5 kg (4.84 to 11 lb) undergoing onychectomy.

Procedure—Researchers were blinded to which cats received a TDF patch (25 µg/h) 18 to 24 hours prior to surgery or an IM injection of butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg [0.09 mg/lb]) at the time of sedation, immediately following extubation, and at 4-hour intervals thereafter for 12 hours. Clinical variables, plasma cortisol concentration, and pain scores were evaluated and recorded 24 hours prior to surgery, at extubation, and 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 hours after surgery.

Results—The TDF group had a lower pain score than the butorphanol group only at 8 hours after surgery. Both groups had significantly lower mean plasma cortisol concentrations 0, 24, 36, and 48 hours after surgery, compared with mean plasma cortisol concentrations prior to surgery. No significant differences in appetite or response to handling the feet were observed between the 2 groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Our data did not reveal a difference in pain relief between administration of TDF and butorphanol. Plasma cortisol concentrations were not different between groups. Fentanyl appeared to provide equivalent analgesia to butorphanol in cats undergoing onychectomy. The primary advantage of using a TDF patch is that repeated injections are not required. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1020–1024)
Separation anxiety syndrome in cats: 136 cases (1991–2000)
Authors: Schwartz Stefanie
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether cats develop clinical signs typical of separation anxiety syndrome (SAS) and the type and frequency of applicable clinical signs in affected cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—136 cats with clinical signs typical of SAS in dogs. Subjects were evaluated during home visits.

Procedure—Medical records of pet cats evaluated for behavior problems during a 10-year period were reviewed. Medical records of cats that displayed behaviors typical of dogs with SAS (eg, inappropriate elimination, excessive vocalization, destructiveness, or self-mutilation) were more extensively examined, and cats that displayed these behaviors only when separated from an apparent attachment figure were included in the study.

Results—Behavior problems triggered by separation anxiety included inappropriate urination (96 cats), inappropriate defecation (48), excessive vocalization (16), destructiveness (12), and psychogenic grooming (8). Inappropriate defecation was identified in a significantly higher percentage of the neutered females in the study than in the neutered males. Seventy-five percent of the cats that urinated inappropriately urinated exclusively on the owner's bed. Psychogenic grooming was identified in 8 of the 40 neutered females but in none of the neutered males, whereas destructiveness was observed in 12 of the 92 neutered males but in none of the neutered females.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that cats can develop SAS. Sex and breed differences in the frequency of particular signs of SAS in cats may exist. Feline SAS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of anxiety-related misbehavior in cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1028–1033)
Characteristics of free-roaming cats and their caretakers
Authors: Centonze Lisa A. , Levy Julie K.
Published: January 2006

Objectives—To describe the characteristics of unowned, free-roaming cats and their caretakers who participated in a trap-neuter-return (TNR) program and to determine the effect of the program on free-roaming cat colonies.

Design—Prospective study.

Sample Population—101 caretakers of 920 unowned, free-roaming cats in 132 colonies in north central Florida.

Results—Most (85/101; 84%) caretakers were female. The median age was 45 years (range, 19 to 74 years). Most (89/101; 88%) caretakers owned pets and of those, most (67/101; 66%) owned cats. The major reasons for feeding free-roaming cats were sympathy and love of animals. Most caretakers reported that the cats they cared for were too wild to be adopted, but many also reported that they considered the cats to be like pets. The total surveyed cat population was 920 before participation in TNR and 678 after TNR. Mean colony size was 7 cats before TNR and 5.1 cats after TNR. Most cats lived on the caretaker's property. At the time of the survey, 70% (644/920) of the cats had been neutered.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The decrease in the surveyed free-roaming cat population was attributed to a reduction in births of new kittens, adoptions, deaths, and disappearances. Recognition of the human-animal bond that exists between caretakers and the feral cats they feed may facilitate the development of effective control programs for feral cat populations. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220: 1627–1633)
Use of a portable real-time reverse transcriptasepolymerase chain reaction assay for rapid detection of foot-and-mouth disease virus
Authors: Callahan Johnny D. , Brown Fred , Osorio Fernando A. , Sur Jung H. , Kramer Ed , Long Gary W. , Lubroth Juan , Ellis Stefanie J. , Shoulars Katina S. , Gaffney Kristin L. , Rock Daniel L. , Nelson William M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate a portable real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay designed to detect all 7 viral serotypes of footand- mouth disease virus (FMDV).

Design—Laboratory and animal studies.

Study Population—Viruses grown in tissue culture and animals experimentally infected with FMDV.

Procedure—1 steer, pig, and sheep were infected with serotype O FMDV. Twenty-four hours later, animals were placed in separate rooms that contained 4 FMDV-free, healthy animals of the same species. Oral and nasal swab specimens, oropharyngeal specimens obtained with a probang, and blood samples were obtained at frequent intervals, and animals were observed for fever and clinical signs of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Samples from animals and tissue cultures were assayed for infectious virus and viral RNA.

Results—The assay detected viral RNA representing all 7 FMDV serotypes grown in tissue culture but did not amplify a panel of selected viruses that included those that cause vesicular diseases similar to FMD; thus, the assay had a specificity of 100%, depending on the panel selected. The assay also met or exceeded sensitivity of viral culture on samples from experimentally infected animals. In many instances, the assay detected viral RNA in the mouth and nose 24 to 96 hours before the onset of clinical disease.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The assay reagents are produced in a vitrified form, which permits storage and transportation at ambient temperatures. The test can be performed in 2 hours or less on a portable instrument, thus providing a rapid, portable, sensitive, and specific method for detection of FMDV. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1636–1642)
Diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism in dogs: a survey of internists and dermatologists
Authors: Behrend Ellen N. , Kemppainen Robert J. , Clark Terrence P. , Salman M. D. , Peterson Mark E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine testing protocols used by board-certified internists and dermatologists for diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) in dogs.

Design—Survey.

Study Population—Board-certified internists and dermatologists.

Procedure—A questionnaire was mailed to 501 specialists to gather information pertaining to diagnosis of HAC.

Results—206 surveys were returned. Only 26% of respondents indicated they would screen a dog for HAC if the dog had only a few laboratory abnormalities consistent with HAC and no clinical signs consistent with the disease; 31% indicated they would not, and 43% indicated they would sometimes. Overall, 55% of respondents indicated they preferred to use the lowdose dexamethasone suppression test for routine screening of dogs suspected to have HAC. However, many respondents indicated they would use a different screening test than usual in particular circumstances. Sixty-eight percent of respondents indicated they would perform a second screening test for confirmation if results of an initial screening test were positive but there were few clinical or laboratory abnormalities consistent with HAC. Most respondents used some sort of test to differentiate pituitary-dependent HAC from HAC secondary to an adrenal tumor (AT), but no 1 test was clearly preferred. Ultrasonography was commonly used, whereas computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were not, even if available.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the low-dose dexamethasone suppression test is the test most commonly used to screen dogs for HAC but that other tests may be used in certain circumstances. A variety of tests were used to differentiate pituitary-dependent HAC from HAC secondary to an AT. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1643–1649)
Surgical and nonsurgical management of and selected risk factors for spontaneous pneumothorax in dogs: 64 cases (1986–1999)
Authors: Puerto David A. , Brockman Daniel J. , Lindquist Christopher , Drobatz Kenneth
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare results of surgical versus nonsurgical treatment of spontaneous pneumothorax in dogs.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—64 dogs with pneumothorax without any history of antecedent trauma.

Procedure—Information on signalment, thoracic radiographic findings, treatment, histologic findings, and outcome was obtained from the medical records. Signalment of affected dogs was compared with signalment of a control population of 260 dogs examined by the emergency service for reasons other than pneumothorax during the study period.

Results—Siberian Huskies were overrepresented in the case population, compared with the control population of dogs examined by the emergency service for other reasons. Twenty-eight dogs were treated without surgery (ie, thoracocentesis or tube thoracostomy with or without cage rest), and 36 were treated with surgery. Information regarding final outcome was available for 33 dogs treated with surgery (median followup time, 485 days) and 15 dogs treated without surgery (median follow-up time, 366 days). Dogs that underwent surgery had significantly lower recurrence (1/30) and mortality (4/33) rates, compared with dogs treated without surgery (6/12 and 8/15, respectively). A definitive diagnosis was obtained for 38 dogs, including 34 of 36 dogs undergoing surgery; 26 had bullous emphysema and 4 had neoplasia. Two dogs developed spontaneous pneumothorax secondary to migration of plant foreign bodies.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that recurrence and mortality rates for dogs with spontaneous pneumothorax managed surgically were significantly lower than rates for dogs managed by nonsurgical means alone. Early surgical intervention is recommended for definitive diagnosis and treatment of dogs with spontaneous pneumothorax. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1670–1674)
Evaluation of a manual technique for detection of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia in dogs receiving chemotherapy
Authors: Wyatt Kenneth M. , Wyatt Gemma L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine accuracy of a manual technique
for detection of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia
in dogs receiving chemotherapy.

Design—Masked prospective study.

Animals—11 dogs treated with chemotherapy for
neoplasia.

Procedure—124 blood samples from dogs being
treated with chemotherapy for various neoplasms
were processed through an automated cell counter,
and results were compared with those obtained by
use of a rapid manual technique for estimating neutrophil
and platelet concentrations to determine
whether the manual technique could accurately
detect dogs with neutropenia or thrombocytopenia.

Results—By use of automated techniques, neutropenia
(< 3,000 cells/µl) was detected in 17 of 124 blood
samples, and thrombocytopenia (< 100,000 platelets/µl)
was detected in 3 of 124 blood samples. The manual
technique correctly identified 16 of 17 (94%) blood
samples with neutropenia, with a specificity of 92%
(98/107). The manual technique correctly identified 3 of
3 (100%) blood samples with thrombocytopenia, with
specificity of 94% (114/121).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Manual estimates
of neutrophil and platelet counts are sensitive
and specific; however, a full differential cell count is
still preferable. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;220:1805–1806)
Comparison of pulse administration versus once daily administration of itraconazole for the treatment of Malassezia pachydermatis dermatitis and otitis in dogs
Authors: Pinchbeck Lauren R. , Hillier Andrew , Kowalski Joseph J. , Kwochka Kenneth W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare clinical efficacy of pulse administration with itraconazole versus once daily administration for the treatment of cutaneous and oticM pachydermatisinfection in dogs.

Design—Randomized controlled trial.

Animals—20 dogs.

Procedure—Dogs were treated with itraconazole orally (n = 10/group), using a pulse administration regimen (5 mg/kg [2.3 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h for 2 consecutive days per week for 3 weeks) or once daily administration (5 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h for 21 days). No other treatment was permitted. On days 0 and 21, clinical severity of cutaneous and otic disease was assessed, and samples were collected for cytologic examination and yeast culture. Cytology (sum of the mean number of yeast organisms per oil immersion field for affected sites) and culture (mean of the score for extent of yeast growth for samples from affected sites) scores were calculated.

Results—For dogs in both treatment groups, clinical severity of cutaneous and otic disease was significantly decreased by day 21, but decrease in severity was not significantly different between groups. Similarly, skin cytology, skin culture, and ear culture scores were significantly decreased on day 21, compared with day 0, for both groups, but decreases were not significantly different between groups except that dogs in the pulse administration group had a significantly greater decrease in ear culture scores than did dogs in the daily administration group. However, when cytology scores only for ear samples were analyzed, day 21 score was not significantly decreased, compared with day 0 score, for either group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that both pulse administration and once daily administration of itraconazole were efficacious in the treatment ofM pachydermatiscutaneous infection in dogs. However, adjunctive treatment may be needed in dogs with M pachydermatis otitis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:1807–1812)
Urethroscopy and laser lithotripsy for the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive urolithiasis in goats and pot-bellied pigs
Authors: Halland Spring K. , House John K. , George Lisle W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To explore the use of urethral endoscopy and laser lithotripsy in the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis in goats and pot-bellied pigs.

Design—Prospective clinical study.

Animals—16 male goats and 6 male pot-bellied pigs with dysuria.

Procedure—Abdominal ultrasonography and urethral endoscopy were performed on all 22 animals. Endoscopic-guided holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser lithotripsy was performed in 3 goats and 2 pot-bellied pigs.

Results—Urolithiasis was identified in 15 goats and 5 pot-bellied pigs. Primary urinary bladder paralysis and cystitis were identified in the remaining pot-bellied pig and goat. Mean bladder diameters of obstructed small- and large-breed goats were 7 and 9.5 cm, respectively. The mean bladder diameter of obstructed pot-bellied pigs was 9.5 cm. Five of 20 animals with obstructive urolithiasis had severe urethral necrosis or stricture formation at the time of urethroscopy. All of these animals were euthanatized within 6 months because of persistent dysuria. When used, laser lithotripsy successfully fractured the distally located obstructing stones in the 3 goats and 2 pot-bellied pigs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Urethral endoscopy is useful for evaluating urethral patency in goats and pot-bellied pigs. Examination of the urethral mucosa following relief of urethral obstructions aids in the assessment of the long-term prognosis for urethral stricture. Urethral endoscopy also expands the therapeutic options for management of urolithiasis by providing a route for conducting laser lithotripsy. Laser lithotripsy proved to be safe and effective for clearing distally located calculi refractory to removal by traditional urethral flushing. Lithotripsy application is restricted to calculi lodged in the urethra. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002; 220:1831–1834)
Population and survival characteristics of cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: 260 cases (1990–1999)
Authors: Rush John E. , Freeman Lisa M. , Fenollosa Nathaniel K. , Brown Donald J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine current population characteristics of, clinical findings in, and survival times for cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—260 cats with HCM.

Procedure—Information was obtained from the medical records. Cats were classified into 1 of 4 clinical groups (congestive heart failure [CHF] group, arterial thromboembolism [ATE] group, syncope group, or cats without clinical signs [subclinical group]) on the basis of the primary clinical signs at the initial examination.

Results—120 cats were classified in the CHF group, 43 in the ATE group, 10 in the syncope group, and 87 in the subclinical group. Antecedent events that may have precipitated CHF included IV fluid administration, anesthesia, surgery, and recent corticosteroid administration. Median survival time was 709 days (range, 2 to 4,418 days) for cats that survived > 24 hours. Cats in the subclinical group lived the longest (median survival time, 1,129 days; range, 2 to 3,778 days), followed by cats in the syncope group (654 days; range, 28 to 1,505 days), cats in the CHF group (563 days; range, 2 to 4,418 days), and cats in the ATE group (184 days; range, 2 to 2,278 days). Causes of death included ATE (n = 56), CHF (49), sudden death (13), and noncardiac causes (27). In univariate analyses, survival time was negatively correlated with left atrial size, age, right ventricular enlargement, and thoracentesis. Cats with systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve lived longer than cats without this echocardiographic finding. In multivariate analyses, only age and left atrial size remained significant predictors of survival time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although overall survival time for cats with HCM was similar to earlier reports, survival times for cats with CHF or ATE were longer than previously reported. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:202–207)
Clinical assessment and outcome of three techniques for jejunal resection and anastomosis in horses: 59 cases (1989–2000)
Authors: Semevolos Stacy A. , Ducharme Norm G. , Hackett Richard P.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare postoperative complications, short- and long-term survival, and surgical times for hand-sewn end-to-end (EE), stapled functional end-toend (FEE), and stapled side-to-side (SS) anastomotic techniques for jejunal resection in horses.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—59 horses.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed to obtain signalment, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome for horses that underwent jejunojejunostomy in our hospital. Only horses that recovered from anesthesia were included in the study.

Results—Among the 59 horses, there were 33 EE, 15 FEE, and 11 SS anastomoses. No difference was found in duration of surgery among the 3 techniques. The most common postoperative complications were colic episodes (56%), ileus (53%), diarrhea (20%), and adhesions (15%). Horses with SS anastomosis had a significantly shorter duration of postoperative ileus than the EE group did. No significant difference in duration of postoperative ileus was found among the other groups. No difference was found among the 3 anastomotic techniques in regard to survival rate at the time of discharge, 6 months after surgery, or 1 year after surgery. Overall survival rates after jejunal anastomosis were 88% at the time of discharge, 65% at 6 months after surgery, and 57% at ≥ 1 year after surgery.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The handsewn EE, stapled FEE, and stapled SS anastomotic techniques should be considered equivalent methods for small intestinal anastomosis in the horse. However, the stapled SS technique may be preferred because of possible decreased duration of postoperative ileus. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:215–218)
Efficacy of a combination febantel-praziquantelpyrantel product, with or without vaccination with a commercial Giardia vaccine, for treatment of dogs with naturally occurring giardiasis
Authors: Payne Patricia A. , Ridley Robert K. , Dryden Michael W. , Bathgate Christine , Milliken George A. , Stewart Patricia W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine efficacy of treatment with a combination febantel-praziquantel-pyrantel product, with or without vaccination with a commercialGiardiavaccine, in dogs with naturally occurring giardiasis.

Design—Prospective trial.

Animals—16 Beagles naturally infected withGiardia duodenalis.

Procedures—During phase 1, 6 dogs were treated with the parasiticide for 3 days (4 were also vaccinated). Four weeks later, all 6 dogs were treated with the parasiticide again for 5 days and were bathed and moved to clean cages after the last treatment (phase 2). Nine dogs were treated with the parasiticide for 3 (n = 4) or 5 (5) days and bathed and moved to clean cages after the last treatment (phase 3). Fecal samples were collected twice weekly for 24 days after treatment and tested for cysts with a quantitative zinc sulfate flotation technique and forGiardiaantigen with an immunoassay.

Results—Dogs in phase 1 were all shedding cysts again by day 24. In phase 2, only 1 dog shed cysts after treatment, and shedding was transient (day 17). In phase 3, neither cysts nor antigen was detected in fecal samples from 2 of 4 dogs treated for 3 days and 4 of 5 dogs treated for 5 days. In 18 of 57 (31.6%) fecal samples, cysts were seen, but results of the immunoassay were negative.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that when a combination febantel-praziquantelpyrantel product is used to treat dogs with giardiasis, bathing and changing the environment after treatment may be more important in preventing recurrence than duration of treatment. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:330–333)
Effect of an orally administered antacid agent containing aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide on abomasal luminal pH in clinically normal milk-fed calves
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed F. , Constable Peter D. , Misk Nabil A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effects of a commercially available orally administered antacid agent containing aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide on abomasal luminal pH in clinically normal milkfed calves.

Design—Randomized trial.

Animals—5 male dairy calves.

Procedure—Throughout the study, calves were fed milk replacer at 7:30 AM and 7:30 PM. Cannulae for pH electrodes were placed in the abomasal body and pyloric antrum. Treatments consisted of oral administration of a high (50 ml) or low (25 ml) dose of the antacid agent and oral administration of milk replacer alone (control). Antacid was given at 7:30 AM, 3:30 PM, and 11:30 PM, and luminal pH was monitored continuously for 24 hours, beginning 15 minutes before administration of the first dose of antacid.

Results—Administration of the first dose of antacid at the time of the morning feeding resulted in an increase in mean abomasal body luminal pH of < 1 pH unit, whereas administration of the second and third doses of the antacid caused transient (< 3 hours) increases in mean luminal pH of approximately 1.5 (low dose) and 2.5 (high dose) pH units.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that clinically normal milk-fed calves given a commercially available antacid agent, PO, will have a transient increase in abomasal luminal pH. Such agents may, therefore, have a role in the treatment of abomasal ulceration in calves; however, the long-term effects of orally administered antacid agents in milkfed calves and the clinical efficacy of such agents in treating abomasal ulceration remain to be determined. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:74–79)
Microbiologic evaluation of commercial probiotics
Authors: Weese J. Scott
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate contents of commercial probiotic
products marketed for veterinary or human
administration.

Design—Microbiologic culture assay.

Sample Population—8 veterinary probiotics and 5
human probiotics.

Procedure—Quantitative bacteriologic culture was
performed on all products, and isolates were identified
via biochemical characteristics. Comparison of
actual contents versus label claims was performed.

Results—Label descriptions of organisms and concentrations
accurately described the actual contents
of only 2 of 13 products. Five veterinary products did
not specifically list their contents. Most products contained
low concentrations of viable organisms. Five
products did not contain 1 or more of the stated
organisms, and 3 products contained additional
species. Some products contained organisms with no
reported probiotic effects; some of these organisms
could be pathogens.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Most commercial
veterinary probiotic preparations are not accurately
represented by label claims. Quality control
appears to be poor for commercial veterinary probiotics.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;220:794–797)
Potential revenue impact of an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in the United States
Authors: Paarlberg Philip L. , Lee John G. , Seitzinger Ann H.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To estimate potential revenue impacts of
an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the
United States similar to the outbreak in the United
Kingdom during 2001.

Design—Economic analysis successively incorporating
quarantine and slaughter of animals, an export
ban, and consumer fears about the disease were
used to determine the combined impact.

Sample Population—Secondary data for cattle,
swine, lambs, poultry, and products of these animals.

Procedure—Data for 1999 were used to calibrate a
model for the US agricultural sector. Removal of animals,
similar to that observed in the United Kingdom,
was introduced, along with a ban on exportation of
livestock, red meat, and dairy products and a reduction
and shift in consumption of red meat in the
United States.

Results—The largest impacts on farm income of an
FMD outbreak were from the loss of export markets
and reductions in domestic demand arising from consumer
fears, not from removal of infected animals.
These elements could cause an estimated decrease
of $14 billion (9.5%) in US farm income. Losses in
gross revenue for each sector were estimated to be
the following: live swine, –34%; pork, –24%; live cattle
–17%; beef, –20%; milk, –16%; live lambs and
sheep, –14%; lamb and sheep meat, –10%; forage,
–15%; and soybean meal, –7%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Procedures
to contain an outbreak of FMD to specific regions and
allow maintenance of FMD-free exports and efforts to
educate consumers about health risks are critical to
mitigating adverse economic impacts of an FMD outbreak.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;220:988–992)
Associations between age or sex and prevalence of gastric ulceration in Standardbred racehorses in training
Authors: Rabuffo Tara S. , Orsini James A. , Sullivan Eileen , Engiles Julie , Norman Tracy , Boston Raymond
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine associations between age, sex, or medical treatment and prevalence and severity of gastric ulceration in Standardbred racehorses in training.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—224 Standardbred racehorses in training.

Procedure—Gastroscopy was performed on each horse, and mucosal ulceration was graded from 0 (normal mucosa, no lesions) to 3 (extensive, often coalescing, lesions with areas of deep ulceration). Associations between age, sex, or treatment and prevalence and severity of ulcers were evaluated.

Results—Prevalence of gastric ulceration was 87%. Although there was little association between age and prevalence of ulcers, there was an association between age and severity of ulcers. Most 2-year-old horses (57.7%) had an ulcer score of 0 or 1. In all other age groups, most (58% to 82.61%) of horses had an ulcer score of 2 or 3. Although overall prevalence of ulceration was comparable among sex groups, the relative risk for gastric ulceration increased with age in castrated males, whereas it decreased in females and sexually intact males.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Gastric ulceration is common in Standardbred horses in race training. Severity is higher in horses ≥ 3 years of age than in 2-year-old horses. Relative risk for ulceration increases with age in castrated males. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1156–1159)
Use of keyhole lung biopsy for diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases in dogs and cats: 13 cases (1998–2001)
Authors: Norris Carol R. , Griffey Stephen M. , Walsh Peter
Published: January 2006

Objective—To characterize interstitial lung diseases
(ILDs) and evaluate use of keyhole lung biopsy for
diagnosis of ILDs in dogs and cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—11 dogs and 2 cats.

Procedure—Medical records of dogs and cats undergoing
keyhole lung biopsy to confirm ILDs were
reviewed. Signalment, clinical signs, results of thoracic
radiography and other respiratory diagnostic
tests, postoperative complications, and patient outcome
were analyzed.

Results—Clinical respiratory signs included cough,
tachypnea, exercise intolerance, and hemoptysis.
Thoracic radiographic abnormalities included interstitial,
alveolar, and bronchointerstitial patterns and multiple
discrete pulmonary nodules. Lung biopsy and
histologic examination revealed interstitial pulmonary
fibrosis, bronchiolitis obliterans with organizing pneumonia,
or unclassified lesions. Outcome after biopsy
included no response to treatment, euthanasia, partial
or complete remission while receiving medication,
and cure.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Recognition
and classification of ILDs in dogs and cats are likely to
be important in guiding appropriate treatment and
providing accurate prognostic information. Ancillary
respiratory diagnostic tests are beneficial in ruling out
infectious and neoplastic disorders that may mimic
ILDs; however, their present use in the diagnosis of
ILDs is limited. Results suggest that keyhole lung
biopsy is an effective means for obtaining a specimen
for histologic diagnosis in dogs and cats with ILDs.
( J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;221:1453–1459)
Comparison of refractometers and test endpoints in the measurement of serum protein concentration to assess passive transfer status in calves
Authors: Calloway Christopher D. , Tyler Jeff W. , Tessman Ronald K. , Hostetler Douglas , Holle Julie
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate 3 refractometers for detection of failure of passive transfer (FPT) of immunity in calves, and assess the effect of refractometric test endpoints on sensitivity, specificity, and proportion of calves classified correctly with regard to passive transfer status.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—90 calves.

Procedure—Blood samples were obtained from calves that were < 10 days old. Serum IgG concentration was determined by use of a radial immunodiffusion assay. Accuracy of 3 refractometers in the prediction of serum IgG concentration was determined by use of standard epidemiologic methods and a linear regression model.

Results—At a serum protein concentration test endpoint of 5.2 g/dL, sensitivity of each refractometer was 0.89 or 0.93, and specificity ranged from 0.80 to 0.91. For all refractometers, serum protein concentration test endpoints of 5.0 or 5.2 g/dL resulted in sensitivity > 0.80, specificity > 0.80, and proportion of calves classified correctly > 0.85. Serum protein concentrations equivalent to 1,000 mg of IgG/dL of serum were 4.9, 4.8, and 5.1 g/dL for the 3 refractometers.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The refractometers, including a nontemperature-compensating instrument, performed similarly in detection of FPT. Serum protein concentration test endpoints of 5.0 and 5.2 g/dL yielded accurate results in the assessment of adequacy of passive transfer; lower or higher test endpoints misclassified larger numbers of calves. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1605–1608)
Ultrasonographic findings in cats with clinical, gross pathologic, and histologic evidence of acute pancreatic necrosis: 20 cases (1994–2001)
Authors: Saunders H. Mark , VanWinkle Thomas J. , Drobatz Kenneth , Kimmel Susan E. , Washabau Robert J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine ultrasonographic findings in cats with clinical, gross pathologic, and histologic evidence of acute pancreatic necrosis.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—20 cats.

Procedure—Ultrasound reports and permanent ultrasonographic images were reviewed, and ultrasonographic findings were recorded. Thoracic and abdominal radiographs were also reviewed, when available. Anatomic localization of pancreatic necrosis was determined from the gross pathology report; duration and severity of pancreatic necrosis were determined by reviewing histologic specimens. The presence of concurrent disease was recorded from the final pathology report.

Results—The pancreas was considered ultrasonographically normal in 10 cats and was not observed in 3. Ultrasonographic findings were considered compatible with pancreatitis in the remaining 7 cats. Gross pathologic findings indicated that pancreatitis was multifocal in all 7 of these cats; histologically, pancreatitis was acute or subacute in 5 and associated with severe or moderate necrosis in 6. In the remaining 13 cats, gross pathologic findings indicated that pancreatitis was multifocal (n = 8) or focal (2), or gross pathologic findings were normal (3). Histologically, pancreatitis was peracute or acute in 11 of these 13 cats and associated with severe or moderate necrosis in 8. Thoracic and abdominal radiographic findings were nonspecific.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of ultrasonography were consistent with a diagnosis of pancreatitis in only 7 of 20 cats with acute pancreatic necrosis in the present study. This suggests that new diagnostic criteria must be established if abdominal ultrasonography is to be an effective tool in the diagnosis of pancreatitis in cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1724–1730)