bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiologic and immunologic characteristics of Streptococcus equi infection in foals
Authors: Hamlen H. J. , Timoney J. F. , Bell R. J.
Published: December 2023

A 2-phase study was performed to characterize the effects of Streptococcus equi infection in unexposed and previously exposed foals. In phase I, 22 weanling foals involved in a naturally occurring S equi epizootic were studied, along with a comparison group of 11 unexposed foals, matched for age, sex, and breed. Six months later (phase II), an epizootic was experimentally induced in previously exposed and unexposed foals from phase I. The prevalence and duration of clinical signs, the relative risk of developing disease, bacteriologic culture results, hematologic responses, and mucosal and serum immunologic responses were determined. Disease protection in phase-I and -II foals was associated with high values for serum S equi M protein-specific IgG at the onset of the epizootic (P < 0.02 for phase 1 and P < 0.01 for phase II), and with a rapid (within 2 weeks of exposure) mucosal S equi M protein-specific IgG response (P < 0.05 for phase I and P = 0.01 for phase II).
Evaluation of subchondral lesion size in osteochondrosis of the scapulohumeral joint in dogs
Authors: van Bree Henri
Published: December 2023

In 62 dogs, the size of 104 subchondral osteochondrosis lesions, expressed as a percentage of the width of the humeral head (the length of the axis from the intertubercular groove to the edge of the humeral head), was significantly (P < 0.0001) different in joints with intact vs ruptured articular cartilage and in joints associated with vs without clinical signs. The status of the articular cartilage covering the subchondral defect was evaluated by use of positive-contrast arthrography.
Surgical treatment of thymoma in cats: 12 cases (1987-1992)
Authors: Gores Barbara R. , Berg John , Carpenter James L. , Aronsohn Michael G.
Published: December 2023

Twelve cats with thymoma were treated hy surgical excision of the tumor alone. None of the cats received radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Two cats died or were euthanatized during the immediate postoperative period: 1 because of postsurgical hemorrhage, and the other because of an associated fungal pleuritis. None of the remaining 10 cats developed evidence of local tumor recurrence or metastases. Six of the cats were alive after follow-up periods ranging from 6 to 36 months (mean, 21 months; median, 21 months). Three cats were euthanatized 18 months, 32 months, and 45 months following surgery for unrelated problems, and 1 cat died as a result of trauma sustained 62 months postoperatively. Myasthenia gravis developed postoperatively in 2 of the cats.
Idiopathic acute hepatic disease in horses: 12 cases (1982-1992)
Authors: Messer Nat T. , Johnson Philip J.
Published: December 2023

Acute hepatic disease was diagnosed in 16 horses during the study period. Twelve of those cases were characterized as idiopathic acute hepatic disease (iahd). In 9 of the 12 (75%) cases of iahd, the horses were female, and 7 of the 9 females were lactating and had been treated with tetanus antitoxin at parturition. Diagnosis of iahd was based on anamnesis, clinical signs, and results of serum biochemical analyses, hepatic biopsy, and postmortem examination. Within 1 year of the illness, 75% (9/12) of the horses had died or had been euthanatized. Not all horses had the typical fulminant signs associated with iahd and in those horses, serum biochemical analyses were particularly helpful in diagnosis. Because tetanus antitoxin administration seemed to be associated with iahd, use of tetanus antitoxin is not without risk, and routine administration of tetanus antitoxin, particularly to parturient mares, should be discouraged.
Radiation therapy of ceruminous gland carcinomas in dogs and cats
Authors: Théon A. P. , Barthez P. Y. , Madewell B. R. , Griffey S. M.
Published: December 2023

Nine dogs and 9 cats with ceruminous gland carcinoma were evaluated to determine whether they would receive radiation therapy. Tissue samples were reviewed to confirm the diagnosis and to assess completeness of resection in animals that had undergone surgery. Seven animals were excluded because surgical excision was determined histologically to have been complete (5) or because the owners did not wish to pursue treatment, because of advanced disease (2). The remaining 6 cats and 5 dogs, 6 of which had previously undergone surgery, were included in the study. The radiation therapy dose was 48 Gy, given in 12 fractions over 4 weeks. The product-limit estimate of mean progression-free survival time was 39.5 months. The estimate of 1-year progression-free survival rate was 56%. The tumor recurred in 4 animals, and metastases were observed in 3 animals. Radiation therapy was found to be safe and effective.
Comparison of the cranial and a new lateral approach to the femoropatellar joint for aspiration and injection in horses
Authors: Hendrickson Dean A. , Nixon Alan J.
Published: December 2023

The genual joint in horses is complex, making synovial fluid aspiration and injection of the femoropatellar joint difficult. Horses commonly have signs of resentment to needle penetration at this site. We compared the safety and efficacy of a new technique, using a lateral approach to the femoropatellar joint, with that of the standard cranial approach in 12 horses. A significantly greater amount of fluid was obtained with the lateral approach (2.0 ± 0.5 ml, mean ± sem) than with the cranial approach (0.9 ± 0.2 ml). Significant differences were not observed in color, nucleated cell count, rbc count, or total protein of the fluid. Mean articular cartilage injury score was significantly lower with the lateral approach (0.3 ± 0.3), compared with that from the cranial approach (1.3 ± 0.4). Only 8% of the joints (1/12) in which the lateral approach was used were injured, compared with 67% (8/12) in the cranial approach. The lateral approach yielded more fluid and was less likely to result in injury to the articular surface than was the cranial approach.
Early postoperative ultrasonographic evaluation of incisional sites in dogs: 15 cases (1990–1992)
Authors: Trout Nicholas J. , Penninck Dominique G. , Boudrieau Randy J. , Kudisch Michele
Published: December 2023

Ultrasonography of the surgical sites of 15 dogs was performed 3 to 8 days after they underwent major orthopedic surgical procedures. Eight dogs were suspected of having incision-site complications on the basis of localized signs of pain, heat, or swelling and clinical signs of pyrexia, lethargy, or anorexia. Seven dogs had apparently normal healing of the incision. Ultrasonography was used to assess and compare the character of fluid accumulation, to detect fluid accumulation associated with evidence of distal enhancement, and to evaluate gas accumulation and disruption of muscle fibers. Ultrasonography of the 8 dogs with complications of the incision site revealed fluid accumulation (8 dogs), distal enhancement associated with fluid accumulations (2), disruption of muscle fibers (1), and gas accumulation (1). Ultrasonography of the 7 dogs with apparently normal healing of the incisions revealed fluid accumulations (2 dogs), fluid between fascial planes (4), disruption of muscle fibers (1), and gas accumulation (1). Aspirates of fluid were obtained from 7 dogs with suspected incision-site infection. Analysis of results of cytologic evaluation or bacterial culturing confirmed infection in 6 dogs and indicated that 1 dog had a sterile hematoma. Ultrasonography is a sensitive technique for the detection and localization of fluid accumulations; however, the detection of fluid accumulations was not limited to dogs with incision-site complications. Fluid accumulations can be evaluated by use of ultrasound-guided needle aspiration, which has few associated negative side-effects. During the early postoperative period, results for fluid evaluation of samples obtained by use of accurately placed aspiration needles can be used to serve as a guide for further treatment.
Epiglottitis in horses: 20 cases (1988–1993)
Authors: Hawkins Jan F. , Tulleners Eric P.
Published: December 2023

Epiglottitis was diagnosed and treated in 20 horses (13 Thoroughbreds and 7 Standardbreds) over a 5-year period. Eighteen horses were used for racing, and 2 Standardbreds were broodmares. Primary clinical signs were exercise intolerance, respiratory noise, and coughing. The most common endoscopic diagnosis made by referring veterinarians was epiglottic entrapment (11 horses).

In 19 horses, endoscopic evaluation at admission revealed mucosal ulceration and thickening of the lingual surface of the epiglottis. Other endoscopic findings included dorsal displacement of the soft palate (14 horses), and dorsal deviation of the epiglottic axis (11 horses). Only 1 horse had epiglottic entrapment. Treatment consisting of stall confinement for 7 to 14 days, topical administration of a solution of furacin, dimethyl sulfoxide, glycerin, and prednisolone, and systemic administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids was effective in controlling epiglottic edema and inflammation. Antimicrobials were administered to 6 horses.

Racing performance of the 18 racehorses was evaluated by examination of racing records. One horse was still convalescing at the time of the study, and 1 horse had been euthanatized 1 week after treatment for epiglottitis because of colic. The remaining 16 horses all started at least 1 race (mean time between initial examination and start of first race, 74 days; range, 8 to 265 days). Thirteen horses started at least 4 races following treatment for epiglottitis; racing performance after treatment was the same in 8 and decreased in 5. Long-term sequelae of epiglottitis included epiglottic deformity (5 horses), intermittent or persistent dorsal displacement of the soft palate (4 horses), and epiglottic entrapment (1 horse).
Pleural effusion associated with acute and chronic pleuropneumonia and pleuritis secondary to thoracic wounds in horses: 43 cases (1982–1992)
Authors: Collins Mark B. , Hodgson David R. , Hutchins David R.
Published: December 2023

Case records of 43 horses with pleural effusion associated with acute pleuropneumonia, chronic pleuropneumonia, or pleuritis secondary to a penetrating thoracic wound were reviewed to determine the predisposing factors, diagnosis, and treatment of this condition.

Acute pleuropneumonia was diagnosed in 36 horses, the majority of which were Thoroughbreds (89%). Of 22 (61%) horses that were in race training at the onset of illness, 11 (31%) had been recently transported a long distance and 4 (11%) had evidence of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage. Physical examination findings and hematologic data were nonspecific. The most consistent abnormality was hyperfibrino-genemia. Affected horses were treated with antibiotics, thoracic drainage, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and supportive care. Twenty-two (61%) horses were discharged from the hospital, with the mean duration of hospitalization for those discharged being 23 days. Nine (25%) horses were euthanatized and 5 (14%) died. Bacterial culturing of thoracic fluid resulted in growth in 30 of the 36 (83%) horses. The finding of anaerobic bacteria in thoracic fluid was not associated with a lower survival rate (62%) than the overall survival rate (61%).

Four horses with chronic pleuropneumonia had a history of lethargy and inappetence for > 2 weeks. Actinobacillus equuli was isolated, either alone or in combination with other bacteria, from thoracic fluid of these 4 horses. Each horse was treated with broad spectrum antibiotics and made a rapid recovery.

Three horses with acute pleuritis secondary to penetrating thoracic wounds also had nonspecific clinical signs, apart from the wound and a large volume of pleural effusion. Bacteriologic isolates from these horses differed slightly from those of horses with acute pleuropneumonia.
Identification of mast celis in buffy coat preparations from dogs with inflammatory skin diseases
Authors: Cayatte Suzanne M. , McManus Patricia M. , Miller William H. , Scott Danny W.
Published: December 2023

In 100 dogs with 4 inflammatory dermatologic diseases, buffy coat preparations from edta-treated blood samples were examined cytologically. Fifty-four dogs had atopy, 26 had flea-bite hypersensitivity, 17 had sarcoptic mange, and 3 had food allergy. Twenty-eight dogs had 2 or more concurrent skin diseases; most of these had secondary pyoderma. Dogs did not have mast cell tumors. Thirteen samples contained 1 or more mast cells/4 slides reviewed. This study revealed that dogs with inflammatory skin diseases can have a few to many mast cells evident on cytologic examination of buffy coat preparations.
Microbiologic evaluation of carcasses before and after washing in a beef slaughter plant
Authors: Jericho Klaus W. , Bradley John A. , Kozub Gerald C.
Published: December 2023

The effect of washing on the bacterial contamination of beef carcasses in a modern abattoir was evaluated. Twenty-six carcasses were evaluated at the end of the slaughter process before and after washing, and 13 other carcasses were evaluated only after being washed. An excision sample (5 × 5 × 0.5 cm) was collected from 10 sites on each carcass immediately before washing and at an adjacent site immediately after washing. Aerobic bacterial colonies were enumerated, using hydrophobic grid membrane filter technology. After washing, the log10 of the most probable number of growth units/cm2 decreased (P < 0.01) at the lateral rump site, increased (P < 0.01) at the thorax and neck sites, but was unchanged at the other 7 sites, compared with before washing. The sample size required to estimate, within 0.5 log10 units, the mean log10 most probable number of growth units/cm2 at a site for use in future group-carcass evaluations was determined and compared with a previously used sample size definition. It was concluded that the washing process described did not result in a major change in the bacterial contamination of carcasses.
Surgical treatment of hepatobiliary cystadenomas in cats: Five cases (1988-1993)
Authors: Trout Nicholas J. , Berg R. John , McMillan Marjorie C. , Schelling Scott H. , Ullman Sharon L.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 5 cats with hepatobiliary cystadenomas treated by means of surgical excision were reviewed. All cats were examined because of lethargy or abdominal enlargement. A cystic liver mass was seen in each cat ultrasonographically. Postoperative complications did not develop, and none of the cats developed evidence of tumor recurrence. Four cats died 12 to 44 months after surgery. Two cats were euthanatized for unrelated problems, and 2 cats died suddenly 25 and 44 months after surgery; the causes of death were not determined in either case. One cat was alive and considered clinically normal on physical examination 42 months after surgery.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in dogs with recently diagnosed but untreated pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Bertoy Elizabeth H. , Feldman Edward C. , Nelson Richard W. , Duesberg Cynthia A. , Kass Philip H. , Reid Michael H. , Dublin Arthur B.
Published: December 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging was used to determine the prevalence of visible pituitary masses in 21 dogs with recently diagnosed and untreated pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism. All dogs had clinical signs and routine database values (CBC, serum biochemical panel, and urinalysis) consistent with a diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism, and none had clinical signs suggestive of an intracranial mass. Each dog had plasma cortisol concentrations after adrenocorticotropic hormone administration or low-dose dexamethasone administration consistent with hyperadrenocorticism. Pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism was confirmed by the finding of 2 equal-size adrenal glands on abdominal ultrasonography and by results of plasma endogenous adrenocorticotropic hormone concentration and high-dose dexamethasone suppression testing. Sagittal and transverse Tl-weighted magnetic resonance images of the brain were obtained before and after IV administration of gadopentenate dimeglumine.

Eleven dogs had visible masses, ranging in size from 4 to 12 mm at greatest vertical height. Mean age and body weight of dogs with a visible pituitary mass was not significantly different from dogs without a visible mass. There was no significant difference in endocrine test results when comparing dogs with a visible pituitary mass to dogs without. The prevalence of visible pituitary masses in dogs with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism was greater than suggested by the prevalence of clinical neurologic signs.
Cellular and antibody responses to equine herpesviruses 1 and 4 following vaccination of horses with modified-live and inactivated viruses
Authors: Ellis John A. , Bogdan Jaret R. , Kanara Edward W. , Morley Paul S. , Haines Deborah M.
Published: December 2023

The ability of monovalent and bivalent equine herpesvirus (EHV) vaccines to stimulate cellular and antibody responses to EHV-1 and EHV-4 was compared in healthy horses. Comparison of data from lymphocyte blastogenesis tests in which live viruses were used as antigens and that were conducted prior to vaccination and after 2 vaccinations revealed that horses given modified-live EHV-1 had significant increases in proliferative responses to EHV-1 (P = 0.03) and EHV- 4 (P = 0.04). Responses to EHV-1 and EHV-4 in horses given the inactivated-virus bivalent vaccine were less; however, significant differences were not noticed when postvaccinal lymphocyte blastogenesis tests were compared between the groups of vaccinees.

Interleukin-2 activity was not detected in leukocyte cultures from either group of vaccinees following stimulation with live EHV-1 or EHV-4; however, interferon activity was found in similar cultures from both groups of vaccinees. For EHV-4, interferon activity in cultures from both groups of vaccinees was significantly (P < 0.05) greater than that in leukocyte cultures from unvaccinated controls.

Both vaccines induced significant (P < 0.05) increases in serum antibodies that neutralized EHV-1 infectivity. The ELISA for EHV-1 and EHV-4 antibodies revealed that both vaccines induced significant (P < 0.05) increases (compared with preinoculation values) in antibodies reactive with these 2 types of EHV. Total serum antibody responses, as measured by ELISA, to EHV-1 and EHV-4 were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in horses that received the bivalent inactivated-virus vaccine, compared with that in horses that received monovalent vaccine. Evaluation of these data revealed that vaccination with modified-live EHV-1 can stimulate cellular and antibody responses that cross-react with EHV-4.
Use of laser flaremetry to measure aqueous humor protein concentration in dogs
Authors: Krohne Sheryl G. , Krohne David T. , Lindley Denise M. , Will Mathew T.
Published: December 2023

The blood-aqueous barrier in dogs is compromised by uveitis, surgery, and limbal paracentesis. Breakdown of the blood-aqueous barrier allows protein into the aqueous humor and results in mild to severe inflammation. Diagnosis of protein in the aqueous humor is traditionally a subjective measurement. Laser flaremetry was used for noninvasive quantitation of aqueous humor protein concentration in dogs. Flaremetry data were compared with aqueous humor protein concentrations obtained from aqueous humor paracentesis and slit-lamp flare evaluations. Results from clinically normal eyes and those with uveitis and cataracts were compared. Subjective evaluations of flare were correlated with a range of flaremetry readings and aqueous humor protein concentrations. Clinically normal eyes had a range of flaremetry readings of 1.4 to 7.0 photon counts (PC)/ms, with a mean of 3.8 PC/ ms. Corresponding aqueous humor protein concentrations ranged from 5 to 28 mg/dl, with a mean of 15.1 mg/dl. Eyes with uveitis or cataracts had a range of flaremetry readings of 4.9 to 245.5 PC/ms and a range of aqueous protein concentrations of 13 to 729 mg/dl. Flaremetry readings accurately and sensitively measured total protein concentrations in the aqueous humor of dogs.
Sternothyrohyoideus myectomy or staphylectomy for treatment of intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate in racehorses: 209 cases (1986-1991)
Authors: Anderson Julie Dee , Tulleners Eric Peter , Johnston Janet Kimberly , Reeves Mathew John
Published: December 2023

The efficacy of sternothyrohyoideus myectomy (SM) and staphylectomy as treatments for intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate was evaluated in 209 racehorses (126 Thoroughbreds, 83 Standardbreds). The 2 most common complaints were respiratory tract noise (75% of horses) and exercise intolerance (51% of horses). Stopping, defined as the inability to finish the race at racing speed, was reported in 40% of the horses. Endoscopy at rest revealed evidence of abnormal epiglottic anatomy (hypoplasia or flaccidity) in 51 % of the horses and abnormal soft palate function in 36% of the horses.

Race records were available for 149 (77 Thoroughbreds, 72 Standardbreds) horses. The sex distribution consisted of 38% sexually intact males, 20% geldings, and 42% females, with a mean age of 3.4 years.

Sixty-nine horses underwent staphylectomy, with a mean of 16 weeks to first start after surgery. Eighty horses underwent SM, with a mean of 10 weeks to first start. Sternothyrohyoideus myectomy was performed on significantly more (P < 0.05) Thoroughbreds than Standardbreds, and staphylectomy was performed on significantly (P < 0.0001; χ2 = 39.56) more Standardbreds than Thoroughbreds. After surgery, most horses (74%) had no change in class; however, more moved up in class (17%) than down (9%).

On the basis of comparison of earnings for 3 starts before surgery with that for 3 starts after surgery, successful outcome was obtained in 60% of the horses (35 Thoroughbreds, 13 Standardbreds) that received SM and in 59% of the horses (11 Thoroughbreds, 30 Standardbreds) that received a staphylectomy. The likelihood of achieving a successful outcome was greatest in horses with total earnings between $5,000 and $25,000. This difference was only significant, however, when this group was compared with those horses with total earnings of less than $5,000 (P = 0.048; χ2 = 3.89). Presurgical endoscopic findings were not significantly associated with the outcome after surgical treatment.
Effects of high doses of oxytetracycline on metacarpophalangeal joint kinematics in neonatal foals
Authors: Kasper Cyndi Anne , Clayton Hilary Mary , Wright Andrea Katherine , Skuba Elizabeth Veronica , Petrie Lyall
Published: December 2023

Thirteen clinically normal Belgian-type foals were used to study the effects of high doses of Oxytetracycline on metacarpophalangeal joint kinematics. Seven foals (treatment group) received 2 doses of oxytetracycline (3 g,
iv). The first dose was given when foals were 4 days old; the second dose was given 24 hours later. Six foals (control group) received 2 doses of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (15 ml,
iv) at equivalent time periods. All foals were videotaped at a walk twice: immediately prior to the first treatment and 24 hours after the second treatment. The tapes were digitized, and metacarpophalangeal joint angle was measured along the palmar surface of the limb during 3 strides. The angular data were normalized for time, and data from the 3 strides were averaged to describe a representative stride. Repeated measures
anova was used to test for differences between groups and within groups over time. Values for stride duration, stance phase percentage, and minimum metacarpophalangeal joint angle obtained before treatment were not significantly different from values obtained after treatment. Maximum metacarpophalangeal joint angle, which occurred during the stance phase of the stride, and range of joint motion were significantly increased for foals in the treatment group, compared with foals in the control group.
Scintigraphy for diagnosis of avulsions of the origin of the suspensory ligament in horses: 51 cases (1980–1993)
Authors: Edwards Ryland B. , Ducharme Norm G. , Fubini Susan L. , Yeager Amy E. , Kallfelz Francis A.
Published: December 2023

The medical records of 34 horses with a diagnosis of avulsion of the origin of the suspensory ligament that had been admitted to the veterinary medical teaching hospital between 1980 and 1993 were identified. In addition to clinical examination, 21 of 34 horses had scintigraphy and radiography performed during their examination. The usefulness of scintigraphy and radiography were assessed by comparing the initial findings reported in the medical record to those obtained in a retrospective review of the images. Thirty other horses with scintigraphic lesions of the proximal aspect of the third metacarpal/metatarsal bone but with a confirmed diagnosis other than avulsion of the suspensory ligament served as controls for lesion specificity. Scintigraphy (bone phase, n=21) revealed increased uptake in all horses in both reviews. Only 14 of 21 (67%) horses radiographed, however, had at least 1 lesion during the initial radiographic evaluation that was reported to be suggestive of avulsion. When the radiographs were reviewed retrospectively, the radiologist identified 18 of 21 (86%) horses with lesions consistent with avulsion. The interpretation of scintigraphy appeared to be a more repeatable and sensitive diagnostic method than radiography. However, though scintigraphy was sensitive in identifying inflammation of the proximal aspect of the metacarpal/metatarsal region, no specific diagnosis of avulsion could be made without coincident radiography; the specificity of scintigraphy in diagnosing avulsion of the suspensory ligament was only 41% (21/51). Radiography of the proximal aspect of the third metacarpal/tarsal bone was found to be falsely negative in 3 of 21 (14%) horses on retrospective evaluation and in 7 of 21 (33%) horses on initial evaluation, perhaps because radiographic signs of disease were subtle.
Measurement of serum bile acids concentrations for diagnosis of hepatobiliary disease in cats
Authors: Center S. A. , Erb H. N. , Joseph S. A.
Published: December 2023

Serum bile acid concentrations were measured after food had been withheld for 12 hours (fasting serum bile acid [
fsba] concentration) and 2 hours after a meal (postprandial serum bile acid [
psba] concentration) using a direct enzymatic procedure in 108 cats clinically suspected of having hepatobiliary disease. In all cats, liver tissue was examined histologically to confirm the diagnosis. Twenty-six cats did not have histologic evidence of hepatobiliary disease and served as controls. The remaining 82 cats had hepatobiliary disease including hepatic lipidosis (n = 20), portosystemic vascular anomaly (n = 24), hepatic necrosis (n = 13), hepatic neoplasia (n =8), or cholestatic hepatic disease (n = 17). Sensitivity and specificity of measuring
fsba and
psba concentrations were calculated for each test alone and when results were interpreted in combination (ie, in series and in parallel), and were compared with sensitivity and specificity of routinely used serum biochemical tests, including measuring serum activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and γ- glutamyltransferase, and measuring serum concentrations of cholesterol,
bun, and total bilirubin.

When tests were considered individually, determination of
fsba and
psba concentrations had higher specificity than did the other tests (using a cutoff of 15 μmol/L for
fsba concentration and of 20 μmol/L for
psba concentration). Determination of
psba concentration had the highest sensitivity of all single tests in cats with hepatic lipidosis, portosystemic vascular anomaly, or cholestasis; determination of alanine aminotransferase activity or
psba concentration had the highest sensitivity for cats with hepatic neoplasia; and determination of aspartate aminotransferase activity had the highest sensitivity for cats with hepatic necrosis. For all cats with hepatobiliary disease, determination of
psba concentration had the highest sensitivity of any single test.

Combination testing using results of measuring total serum bile acid concentrations in conjunction with results of measuring serum enzyme activity or total bilirubin concentration gave the best overall test performance. Results indicate that both the
fsba and
psba concentration should be determined, but that if paired samples cannot be collected, the
psba concentration should be preferentially measured. In a small number of cats (6/108), the
fsba concentration exceeded the
psba concentration.
Treatment of dogs with wounds of the limbs caused by shearing forces: 98 cases (1975-1993)
Authors: Beardsley Stephanie L. , Schrader Steven C.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 98 dogs with wounds of the limbs caused by shearing forces (shearing wounds) were reviewed. Shearing wounds were reported most often in young dogs of many breeds, and most often resulted from trauma received during an encounter with an automobile. Wounds were located mainly on the distal portion of the limbs, with the most common site being the medial aspect of the tarsus and metatarsus. All injuries resulted in exposure of subcutaneous soft tissues, about three fourths of all injuries resulted in bone or joint exposure, and slightly more than half of the dogs had joint instability. All wounds were lavaged and debrided. Wounds were sutured, using primary closure techniques or methods that allowed the wound to remain partially or totally open to heal by second intention. Bandages were applied in all dogs. Most bandages were reinforced with a splint device. Grafting procedures or internal fixation devices were not used in initial treatment of the injuries. In the study reported here, healing time ranged from 2.0 to 8.7 weeks, depending on the size and depth of the wound and type of closure used. Mean number of anesthetic and surgical procedures was 1.7 per dog, and the mean number of rechecks after discharge from the hospital was 5.5 per dog. Outcome was considered excellent or good in 89 of 98 (91 %) dogs; these dogs were clinically normal or had only minor functional abnormalities after their injuries healed. Outcome was poor in 9 of 60 (15%) dogs.
Use of tension band wires in horses with fractures of the ulna: 22 cases (1980-1992)
Authors: Martin François , Richardson Dean W. , Nunamaker David M. , Ross Michael W. , Orsini James A.
Published: December 2023

Twenty-two horses with ulnar fractures were treated, using tension band wires alone or tension band wires in combination with pins or cortical bone screws. Age of the horses ranged from 2 weeks to 12 years (median, 4 months), and body weight ranged from 68 to 477 kg (median, 181 kg). Fractures were classified according to the Donecker and Bramlage ulnar fracture classification and included type 1-a (4 horses), type 1-b (4), type-2 (6), type-3 (1), type-4 (3), and type-5 (4) fractures. Tension band wires alone were used in 7 horses. Tension band wires were used in conjunction with unthreaded pins in 10 horses. In 3 horses, 5.5-mm cortical bone screws were inserted longitudinally instead of pins. A combination of a 5.5-mm cortical bone screw and a pin was used in 2 horses. In addition to pins and tension band wires, 4.5-mm cortical bone screws were placed in lag fashion to aid reduction of comminuted or oblique fractures in 7 of the 22 horses. Fractures healed in 18 (82%) horses. Four horses were euthanatized because of complications that included catastrophic failure of fixation during recovery from general anesthesia in 1 foal, septic arthritis and hyperextension of the contralateral metacarpophalangeal joint in 1 foal, and wound infection with partial disruption of repair in 2 horses. Nonfatal complications developed in 6 horses and included incision infection, partial wound dehiscence, carpal contraction, carpus varus of the contralateral forelimb, slight distraction of proximal fragments of the fractures, bent implants, and distal migration of pins. Long-term monitoring was performed on 17 horses. Of these 17 horses, 13 (76%) were able to achieve athletic performance activities, 3 had residual lameness restricting athletic performance, and 1 had severely limited activity as a result of lameness. Tension band wires can be used successfully for repair of ulnar fractures in selected horses.
Endoscopic and surgical retrieval of fishhooks from the stomach and esophagus in dogs and cats: 75 cases (1977-1993)
Authors: Michels Gina Μ. , Jones Brent D. , Huss Brian T. , Wagner-Mann Colette
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 3 cats and 72 dogs that had a fishhook endoscopically or surgically retrieved from the stomach or esophagus were reviewed. Endoscopic retrieval was successful in 41 of 62 (66%) animals, and retrieval time and hospitalization time for endoscopic retrieval were significantly shorter than times for surgical retrieval. Rate of failure of endoscopic retrieval was higher for animals with treble-barb, rather than single-barb, fishhooks. Whether a fishhook could be successfully retrieved endoscopically was independent of body weight, amount of time the fishhook had been present, location of the hook, and orientation within the esophagus.
Loop colostomy for treatment of grade-3 rectal tears in horses: seven cases (1983-1994)
Authors: Blikslager Anthony T. , Bristol David G. , Bowman Karl F. , Engelbert Theresa A.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine the feasibility of performing a single-incision loop colostomy for treatment of grade-3 rectal tears in horses.

Design—

Retrospective case series.

Animals—

Seven adult horses with grade-3 rectal tears.

Procedure—

A single-incision loop colostomy was performed with horses under general anesthesia (n = 6) or while restrained in standing stocks (n = 1). The rectal tear was lavaged via an endoscope. The colostomy was resected after the rectal tear healed.

Results—

Rectal tears ranged from 4 to 10 cm in diameter and were > 25 cm proximal to the anus. All horses survived colostomy surgery. One horse was euthanatized at the request of the owner 1 day after surgery. Six horses underwent colostomy resection 13 to 30 days after colostomy. All horses had evidence of atrophy of the distal portion of the small colon, predisposing to impaction at the small colon anastomosis in 2 horses. One horse was euthanatized while hospitalized because of severe recurrent colic. Five horses were discharged from the hospital 31 to 45 days after admission. One horse was euthanatized 60 months after discharge from the hospital because of severe colic, and 4 horses were alive at the time of follow-up evaluation (3 to 12 months after discharge).

Clinical implications—

The prognosis for horses with grade-3 rectal tears treated by colostomy appears to be favorable.
Evaluation of factors associated with development of calcium oxalate urolithiasis in cats
Authors: Kirk Claudia A. , Ling Gerald V. , Franti Charles E. , Scarlett Janet M.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To evaluate dietary and environmental factors as potential risk factors for calcium oxalate urolithiasis in cats.

Design—

Case-control study.

Animals—

84 cats with uroliths composed of at least 90% calcium oxalate and 258 age- and gender-matched control cats.

Procedure—

Owners of cats with calcium oxalate urolithiasis and control cats were surveyed between November 1990 and August 1992. Owners completed a standard questionnaire administered during a single telephone interview. Data collected included information regarding signalment, environment, urination and defecation, diet, and medical history.

Results—

Calcium oxalate uroliths tended to develop in middle- to older-aged, domestic shorthair cats of typical weight. A gender predilection was not detected. Factors associated with an increase in the risk of calcium oxalate urolithiasis in cats were feeding urine-acidifying diets, feeding a single brand of cat food without providing additional foods or table scraps, maintaining cats in an indoor-only environment, and being of the Persian breed.

Clinical Implications—

Control of diet and environment may help prevent calcium oxalate urolithiasis.
Evaluation of the benefits of the timing of pregnancy testing by transrectal palpation in dairy cattle
Authors: Thompson James A. , Marsh William E. , Etherington Wayne G. , Momont Harry W. , Kinsel Mark L.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine the benefits that were associated with pregnancy testing by use of transrectal palpation during the period 30 to 65 days after unsuccessful insemination of dairy cows.

Design—

Nonconcurrent, cohort study.

Animals—

Cows in 15 dairy herds in the United States and Canada.

Procedure—

Reproductive records of cows (n = 713) that did not calve within 294 days of first-service insemination and that had been evaluated for pregnancy 30 to 65 days after first-service insemination were examined. Records were analyzed to determine the day of parturition or date of culling and to determine if the probability of a cow being culled or the interval to parturition was related to the number of days after insemination that pregnancy testing was performed.

Results—

For cows that calved more than 294 days after first-service insemination, the interval from first-service insemination until parturition was associated significantly with herd, season, and treatment on the day of pregnancy testing with prostaglandin F2α or one of its analogues. Cows treated with prostaglandin F2α on the day of pregnancy testing were less likely to be culled than nontreated cows. For cows pregnancy tested 30 to 65 days after insemination, each additional day after day 30 before pregnancy testing was performed resulted in an increase of 1.09 days in the interval until parturition.

Clinical Implications—

Pregnancy testing by means of transrectal palpation as soon as possible after day 30 after insemination can result in shorter calving intervals.
Effects of mydriatic agents in cockatoos, African gray parrots, and Blue-fronted Amazon parrots
Authors: Ramer Jan C. , Paul-Murphy Joanne , Brunson David , Murphy Christopher J.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To compare, in psittacines, the mydriatic effects of several topically applied curariform, sympathomimetic, and parasympatholytic drugs with and without the addition of surface-acting penetrating agents.

Design—

Prospective, randomized controlled trial.

Animals—

10 adult cockatoos (Cacatua sulphurea subspecies), 2 adult African gray parrots (Psittacus erithacus), and 3 adult Blue-fronted Amazon parrots (Amazona aesiiva).

Procedure—

Three curariform drugs (d-tubocurarine, pancuronium, and vecuronium bromide) and 2 autonomic drugs (atropine and phenylephrine hydrochloride) were evaluated. Drugs were tested with and without the addition of a surface-acting penetrating agent, either saponin or benzalkonium chloride. The agent that resulted in the most significant change in pupillary diameter with the fewest systemic side effects in the cockatoos then was evaluated for its effects in the African gray parrots and the Blue-fronted Amazon parrots. During each drug trial, 1 eye was randomly selected to receive the control drug (0.9% NaCI), and the opposite eye was selected to receive the test drug. Each pupil was videotaped 5 (cockatoos only), 15, 30, 45, 60, and 75 minutes after treatment. Pupil diameters were measured by use of a computerized image analysis system. Data for pupil size were analyzed by means of repeated measures ANOVA.

Results—

Vecuronium without the addition of a surface-acting penetrating agent produced the most consistent and greatest pupillary dilatation in all 3 species with the fewest systemic side effects.

Clinical Implications—

Vecuronium is potentially a clinically useful, topical mydriatic agent for use in avian species. Documented differences in the prevalence of systemic side effects between species suggests that caution should be applied when applying this drug bilaterally. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:227-230)
Effect of dietary protein content on behavior in dogs
Authors: Dodman Nicholas H. , Reisner Ilana , Shuster Louis , Rand William , Luescher U. Andrew , Robinson Ian , Houpt Katherine A.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine the effect that feeding diets containing a low (17%), medium (25%), or high (32%) protein content would have on behavior in dogs.

Design—

Prospective, controlled study.

Animals—

12 dogs with dominance aggression, 12 dogs with hyperactivity, 12 dogs with territorial aggression, and 14 control dogs without behavioral problems.

Procedure—

Dogs were fed each of the diets for a 2-week period, and owners were instructed to score their dogs' behavior on a daily basis.

Results—

Behavior of the dogs with dominance aggression, dogs with hyperactivity, and control dogs was unchanged by the dietary manipulations. Territorial aggression was significantly reduced when dogs were fed the low- or medium-protein diet, compared with territorial aggression when fed the high-protein diet. Post hoc analysis indicated that this effect was attributable to a marked reduction in aggression in a subset of the group (n = 7) in which territorial aggression was a result of fear.

Clinical Implications—

Results of this study suggest that a reduction in dietary protein content is not generally useful in the treatment of behavior problems in dogs, but may be appropriate in dogs with territorial aggression that is a result of fear. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:376-379)
Quantity and distribution of Malassezia organisms on the skin of clinically normal dogs
Authors: Kennis Robert A. , Rosser Edmund J. , Olivier N. Bari , Walker Robert W.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To define the extent to which Malassezia organisms can be recovered from the skin of clinically normal dogs and to assess differences in organism recovery related to anatomic sampling site and to method of collection.

Design

Prospective, controlled study.

Animals

19 clinically normal dogs.

Procedure

The number of Malassezia pachydermatis organisms were determined in fungal cultures of samples obtained from the skin of clinically normal dogs, using an adhesive tape method to obtain samples from 10 sites/dog. Additionally, 3 methods (direct impression, swabbing technique, and superficial skin scraping) that are commonly used for obtaining samples for cytologic examination were evaluated.

Results

Malassezia organisms were found in low numbers as part of the microflora of the skin of clinically normal dogs. Number of organisms differed significantly for various anatomic locations (chin, highest number; inguinal and axillary regions, lowest number). Malassezia organisms were identified more frequently by use of adhesive tape and fungal culturing than by the methods used for cytologic examination. However, comparing methods used for obtaining samples for cytologic examination with each other, marked differences were not detected in our ability to recover yeast organisms among the 3 techniques.

Clinical Implications

Although Malassezia spp is part of the microflora of the skin of clinically normal dogs, it is extremely difficult to detect the organism by any of the 3 sampling methods used for sample collection for cytologic examination. Therefore, anatomic site and method of sample collection should be considered when attempting to make a diagnosis of Malassezia dermatitis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:1048–1051)
Benefit-cost analysis of vaccination of horses as a strategy to control equine monocytic ehrlichiosis
Authors: Atwill Edward R. , Mohammed Hussni O.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether horses in New York should be vaccinated against equine monocytic ehrlichiosis (EME).

Design

Decision-tree analyses of data from a cross-sectional study and a case-control study.

Sample Population

Horses in New York.

Procedure

Annual expected monetary loss per horse attributable to EME was calculated for vaccinated and nonvaccinated horses in New York. Because risk of being seropositive was dependent on county in which the horse was located, farm elevation, and use of each horse, decision-tree analyses were stratified by these factors.

Results

Annual expected monetary loss per horse attributable to EME for horses vaccinated by veterinarians ranged from $21 to $21.83/horse/y; for horses vaccinated by owners ranged from $10 to $10.83/horse/y; and for nonvaccinated horses ranged from $0 to $4.03/horse/y. Assuming 78% of vaccinated horses were protected and mean losses associated with EME included costs for horses that died, annual incidence density at which expected monetary loss for vaccinated horses was equal to that for nonvaccinated horses was 12 cases/1,000 horses/y and 25 cases/1,000 horses/y for horses vaccinated by owners or by veterinarians, respectively.

Clinical Implications

Annual vaccination minimizes monetary losses attributable to EME only when the annual incidence density exceeds 12 to 25 cases/1,000 horses/y. In New York, expected monetary losses are minimized when horses are not vaccinated because of the low annual incidence density in most regions. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208: 1290–1294)
Neospora species infection in a herd of dairy cattle
Authors: Björkman Camilla , Johansson Olof , Stenlund Susanne , Holmdahl O. Joakim M. , Uggla Arvid
Published: December 2023

Objective

To investigate the route of transmission of Neospora sp in a herd of dairy cattle in which sporadic abortions had been observed since the establishment of the farm in 1980.

Design

Serum samples were screened for antibodies to Neospora sp, and records from an artificial insemination program were analyzed.

Animals

58 female cattle.

Procedure

An ELISA was used to screen serum samples for antibodies to Neospora sp. Fertility, calf mortality, and relationships between specific cattle were investigated. Statistical analysis was performed on the fertility data.

Results

Antibodies were detected in 17 of 58 (29%) tested cattle. All seropositive cattle were descendants of 2 cows purchased in 1980. Cattle that were descendants of those 2 cows were compared with their herdmates, but significant differences were not detected in the number of inseminations per confirmed pregnancy or in the number of cattle that required more than 1 insemination/pregnancy. Since 1980, there were 323 confirmed pregnancies in the herd, and calf mortality (prenatal and perinatal mortality) was 24 of 323 (7%).

Clinical implications

Congenital transmission of Neospora organisms together with the apparent lack of horizontal transmission observed in the herd reported here indicated that Neospora sp has the ability to be transmitted from dam to offspring for several generations. This mode of transmission would explain the maintenance of infection in a population of cattle despite the lack of a definitive host for the parasite. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;208:1441-1444)
Aortic and iliac artery thrombosis in calves: nine cases (1974-1993)
Authors: Morley Paul S. , Allen Andrew L. , Woolums Amelia R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To identify common clinical and diagnostic features of calves with aortic or iliac artery thrombosis that might aid in antemortem diagnosis of this condition.

Design

retrospective case series.

Animals

9 calves ≤ 6 months old in which aortic or iliac artery thrombosis was confirmed at necropsy.

Results

All calves had an acute onset of paresis or flaccid paralysis of 1 or both hind limbs. Affected limbs were hypothermic and had diminished spinal reflexes and diminished pulse pressures. Diagnosis was definitively established in 2 calves by use of angiography. All 9 calves died or were euthanatized.

Clinical Implications

This condition is rare and could be mistaken for more common diseases of young cattle, such as traumatic injury of the axial or appendicular skeleton, vertebral osteomyelitis, nutritional muscular dystrophy associated with vitamin E or selenium deficiency, injury to the sciatic or femoral nerves, or clostridial myositis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:130–136)