bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occupational factors and reproductive outcomes among a cohort of female veterinarians
Authors: Wilkins J. R. , Steele Larry L.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To estimate absolute and relative risks of preterm delivery (PTD) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) births among a cohort of female veterinarians in relation to selected occupational factors, including clinical practice type (CPT).

Design

Retrospective cohort survey.

Sample Population

2,997 female graduates from US veterinary colleges between 1970 and 1980.

Procedure

Relevant health and occupational data were collected through a self-administered mail questionnaire with telephone follow-up of nonrespondents. Absolute and relative risks of PTD and SGA births were estimated in relation to maternal CPT at the time of conception and exposure to 13 occupational factors. Attempts were made to control confounding by use of multiple logistic regression analyses.

Results

Absolute and relative risks of PTD were highest for veterinarians employed in exclusively equine clinical practice. Although several increased, none of the CPT-specific relative risk estimates were significantly different from the null value of 1. Exposure-specific analyses indicated that occupational involvement with solvents among exclusively small animal practitioners was associated with the highest relative risk of PTD. A small number of SGA births limited information that could be obtained from these analyses. Overall absolute risks of PTD and SGA births among cohort members were much lower in comparison with the general female population.

Clinical Implications

Given the large number of women currently practicing and entering the profession of veterinary medicine, clinical tasks associated with potential reproductive hazards should be approached with heightened awareness and increased caution, especially activities that may involve exposure to solvents. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:61-67)
Cutaneous lymphoma with extensive periarticular involvement in a horse
Authors: Gerard Mathew P. , Healy Laura N. , Bowman Karl E , Miller Richard T.
Published: December 2023

Invasion of periarticular tissues by neoplastic lymphoid cells is rare in horses.

T lymphocytes made up most cells within the neoplasm.
Determining factors for successful adoption of dogs from an animal shelter
Authors: Posage J. Michelle , Bartlett Paul C. , Thomas Daniel K.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether certain characteristics of dogs offered for adoption are associated with successful adoption.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Animals

1,468 relinquished dogs offered for adoption at a local humane society.

Procedure

Data regarding dogs offered for adoption were obtained from surveys completed by previous owners. Data were analyzed by use of bivariate statistics and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of dogs offered for adoption, 1,073 were successfully adopted, 239 were not adopted, and 157 were returned to the shelter after adoption. Terrier, hound, toy, and nonsporting breeds were found to be significantly associated with successful adoption (P< 0.05, χ2 analysis). Certain coat colors (gold, gray, and white), small size, and history of an indoor environment were also significant predictors of successful adoption. The correlation coefficient (0.048) indicated that only a small percentage of variance in adoption success could be explained by the multiple logistic regression model.

Clinical Implications

Animal shelter managers with limited kennel capacity may wish to periodically use surveys to determine whether the type of dog being offered to the public reflects the type of dog the public will adopt. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:478-482)
Ocular infections with dematiaceous fungi in two cats and a dog
Authors: Bernays Michael E. , Peiffer Robert L.
Published: December 2023

Clinical signs and histologic findings associated with dematiaceous fungal infections of the ocular tissues can be variable.

Dematiaceous fungi should be considered in the differential diagnoses list of exogenous causes of ocular infections, such as endophthalmitis, orbital cellulitis, and keratitis.
Herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy in horses: 11 cases (1982-1996)
Authors: Donaldson Mark T. , Sweeney Corinne R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine results of CSF analysis in horses with equid herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) and to determine whether results of CSF analysis were associated with outcome.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

11 horses.

Procedure

Medical records of all horses admitted to the veterinary teaching hospital between February 1982 and March 1996 in which EHM was diagnosed were reviewed.

Results

7 horses were ≤ 4 years old; 8 were admitted during January, February, or March. Six horses were febrile prior to admission, but none was febrile on the day of admission. Five horses had been stabled with other horses that had clinical signs of neurologic disease. All horses had had an acute onset of hind limb ataxia and paresis. Cranial nerve deficits were detected in 3 horses. Cerebrospinal fluid samples were collected on the day of admission from 10 horses. Protein concentration was high in 8 horses; nucleated cell count was normal in 8. Protein concentration and nucleated cell and RBC counts were not significantly different between horses that survived and horses that were euthanatized. Six horses were euthanatized, and 5 survived. All of the horses that survived remained standing or were able to stand with minimal assistance.

Clinical Implications

High CSF protein concentration and normal or only slightly high CSF nucleated cell count are common in horses with EHM; however, results of CSF analysis were not associated with outcome. Horses with EHM that become recumbent have a poor prognosis for survival. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:671-675)
Comparison of antibiotic administration in conjunction with supportive measures versus supportive measures alone for treatment of dairy cows with clinical mastitis
Authors: Morin Dawn E. , Shanks Roger D. , McCoy Gene C.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether antibiotic and supportive treatment would improve outcome for dairy cows with naturally developing clinical mastitis, compared with supportive treatment alone.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Animals

124 cows in one herd with 172 episodes of clinical mastitis.

Procedure

Cows were examined at the onset of clinical mastitis, assigned a severity score, and randomly assigned to receive antibiotic (intramammary administration of cephapirin, IV administration of oxytetracycline, or both) and supportive treatment (administration of oxytocin, stripping of affected glands, and, in severely affected cows, administration of flunixin meglumine or fluids) or supportive treatment alone. Treatment was continued until 24 hours after signs of clinical mastitis resolved (clinical cure). Milk samples from affected glands were submitted for bacterial culture before initial treatment and every 2 weeks thereafter until the causative organism was no longer isolated (bacteriologic cure).

Results

When mastitis was caused by Streptococcus spp or coliform bacteria, clinical cure rate by the tenth milking was significantly higher if antibiotics were used. Bacteriologic cure rate at 14 days was significantly higher when antibiotics were used, particularly if mastitis was caused by Streptococcus spp. Cows receiving antibiotics developed fewer subsequent episodes of clinical mastitis during the 60 days after the initial episode of mastitis and had less severe clinical disease than cows that did not.

Clinical Implications

Results suggest that, in herds in which mastitis is often caused by environmental bacteria, antibiotic and supportive treatment may result in a better outcome for cows with clinical mastitis than supportive treatment alone. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:676-684)
Determination of the association between Neospora caninum infection and reproductive performance in beef herds
Authors: Waldner Cheryl L. , Janzen Eugene D. , Ribble Carl S.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine seroprevalence of Neospora caninum infection in beef herds and the association between serologic status and rate of abortion, stillbirth, calf mortality, and reproductive failure.

Design

Longitudinal study.

Animals

419 cows from 8 beef herds in central Alberta.

Procedure

1,391 serum samples from a serum bank were analyzed, using ELISA, and results were compared, using logistic regression, with productivity data on individual cows obtained from a database established during a 4-year period.

Results

30% of cows were seropositive at some point during the 4-year period. Risks of abortion (odds ratio [OR], 5.7) and stillbirth (OR, 2.8) in seropositive cows were significantly greater than in seronegative cows. Risks of being culled for any reason (OR, 1.9) or for reproductive failure (OR, 2.5) in seropositive cows were also significantly greater than in seronegative cows. Changes in titer with time in individual cows and a lack of association between serologic status of dam versus daughter suggest that postnatal transmission was possible in these herds. However, horizontal transmission did not appear to play a substantial role in abortions that occurred in these herds.

Clinical Implications

Neosporosis should be investigated as a potential source of economic loss to the beef industry. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:685-690)
Aortic foreign body resulting in ischemic neuromyopathy and development of collateral circulation in a cat
Authors: Whigham Heidi M. , Ellison Gary W. , Graham John
Published: December 2023

Ischemic neuromyopathy and paraplegia in cats are commonly associated with aortic thromboembolism.

Occlusion of the abdominal aorta by a foreign body may also result in ischemic neuromyopathy and paraplegia; however, the prognosis for cats with paraplegia secondary to an aortic foreign body may be better than that for cats with paraplegia secondary to aortic thromboembolism.

Collateral circulation may develop as a result of aortic occlusion by a foreign body. Progression of the collateral circulation may allow for clinical improvement without surgical intervention.
Recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for treatment of puppies with neutropenia secondary to canine parvovirus infection
Authors: Rewerts Jennifer M. , McCaw Dudley L. , Cohn Leah A. , Wagner-Mann Colette , Harrington Daniel
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine the effect of treatment with recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) for puppies with neutropenia secondary to canine parvovirus infection.

Design—

Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Animals—

23 puppies.

Procedure—

Diagnosis was confirmed by use of an ELISA for detection of canine parvovirus antigen in feces, and all puppies received standard treatment for parvoviral enteritis. All puppies had neutropenia (< 1,000 neutrophils/μl) at the time of admission to the hospital or within 4 days afterward. Eleven puppies were treated with rhG-CSF daily until neutrophil count was > 1,500 cells/μl; the remaining 12 puppies were not treated with rhG-CSF.

Results—

We did not detect any significant differences between groups regarding duration of hospitalization, neutrophil count when neutropenia was first detected, lowest neutrophil count, or time until neutrophil count was > 1,500 cells/μl.

Clinical Implications—

Results suggest that treatment with rhG-CSF may not be beneficial in puppies with neutropenia secondary to canine parvovirus infection. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998:213:991-992)
Efficacy of oral administration of itraconazole to cats with dermatophytosis caused by Microsporum canis
Authors: Mancianti Francesca , Pedonese Francesca , Zullino Cristina
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine efficacy of orally administered itraconazole in cats with dermatophytosis caused by Microsporum canis.

Design—

Uncontrolled clinical trial.

Animals—

15 cats with dermatophytosis caused by M canis.

Procedure—

All cats were treated with itraconazole (1.5 to 3.0 mg/kg [0.7 to 1.4 mg/lb] of body weight, PO, q 24 h, for 15 days). Six cats had been treated with griseofulvin (10 mg/kg [4.5 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h) during a 60-day period, but their clinical condition had not improved. Five cats treated at the highest dosage of itraconazole vomited or became anorectic. Consequently, dosages were progressively decreased for each cat until adverse effects were not evident. After treatment, samples of hair were submitted for fungal cultures, and if appropriate, treatment was repeated when culture results were positive.

Results—

8 cats treated with itraconazole recovered completely, as indicated by resolution of lesions and negative results of fungal cultures. Six of these 8 cats received a single 15-day course of treatment, whereas the remaining 2 cats needed prolonged treatment (two 15-day courses of treatment and three 15-day courses of treatment). In 4 other cats that became clinically normal, M canis was isolated from hair samples obtained at the completion of treatment, even though only 1 colony or a small number of colonies was isolated. In the other 3 cats, itraconazole did not cause clinical improvement, and culture results remained positive.

Clinical Implications—

Oral administration of itraconazole at dosages of 1.5 to 3.0 mg/kg may be useful for the treatment of cats with dermatophytosis attributable to M canis infections. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998:213:993-995)
Comparison of laboratory test results before and after surgical removal of heartworms in dogs with vena caval syndrome
Authors: Kitagawa Hitoshi , Kitoh Katsuya , Ohba Yasunori , Kuwahara Yasuhito , Iwasaki Toshirou , Sasaki Yoshihide
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare results of laboratory tests in dogs with vena caval syndrome before and after surgical removal of heartworms.

Design

Longitudinal uncontrolled clinical trial.

Animals

51 dogs with vena caval syndrome.

Procedure

Heartworms were removed from the area of the tricuspid valve and pulmonary arteries via venotomy and by use of flexible alligator forceps. Blood samples were obtained before and 10 days after removal of heartworms. Red and white blood cell counts were determined, using an automated cell counter. Biochemical tests were performed, using a dry chemical method.

Results

45 dogs survived the procedure, and 6 died or were euthanatized after surgical treatment. After surgery, RBC count and total protein, albumin, calcium, and sodium concentrations increased, and total bilirubin, ammonia, BUN, creatinine, uric acid, and potassium concentrations decreased in dogs that survived. Creatine kinase, L-lactate dehydrogenase, and amylase activities decreased, whereas alkaline phosphatase and ɣ-glutamyltransferase activities and total cholesterol concentration increased. Alanine transaminase activity decreased in 27 dogs but increased in 3 dogs. Changes in test results in dogs that did not survive were similar to those in dogs that did survive. Significant differences were found in RBC count, ɣ-glutamyltransferase activity, and total protein, total cholesterol, BUN, and total bilirubin concentrations before and after removal of heartworms.

Clinical Implications

Hepatic and renal functions improve rapidly after surgical removal of heartworms, presumably because general and pulmonary circulation is normalized. However, cholestasis may develop, and dogs that survive may need additional treatment to preserve hepatic function. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:1134-1136)
Influence of fecal shedding of Salmonella organisms on mortality in hospitalized horses
Authors: Mainar-Jaime Raúl C. , House John K. , Smith Bradford P. , Hird David W. , House Ann-Marie , Kamiya Darin Y.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To predict mortality of horses by use of clinical data from the first day of hospitalization, to determine whether fecal shedding of Salmonella organisms is related to severity of clinical disease, and to determine the impact of fecal shedding of Salmonella organisms on mortality.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

1,446 hospitalized horses.

Procedure

Medical information was obtained from horses hospitalized in an intensive care unit or isolation facility during a 4.5-year period. A model was created to predict mortality, using covariates determined on the day of admission. Predicted mortality provided a measure of clinical condition. Predicted mortality was compared between horses that were and were not shedding Salmonella organisms in their feces to determine whether shedding was associated with severity of disease. Predicted and observed mortality between horses were also compared to evaluate the association between fecal shedding of Salmonella organisms and mortality.

Results

92 horses were identified as shedding Salmonella organisms. In a multivariable model, 4 variables (heart rate, respiratory rate, rectal temperature, and clinical management) were associated with mortality. A higher predicted probability of death was observed in horses that shed Salmonella krefeld or more than 1 serotype. Relative risk (RR) of mortality was high for horses shedding S typhimurium (RR, 1.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.04 to 3.59) and multiple serotypes (RR, 4.75; 95% confidence interval, 2.29 to 9.84). When the clinical condition (ie, prior predicted probability of death) was taken into consideration, fecal shedding of Salmonella organisms was not significantly associated with mortality.

Clinical Implications

In this horse population, fecal shedding of S krefeld was associated with more severe clinical conditions at the time of admission; however, fecal shedding of Salmonella organisms during hospitalization did not alter predicted mortality. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:1162-1166)
Enterotoxigenic Clostridium perfringens type A necrotic enteritis in a foal
Authors: Bueschel Dawn , Walker Richard , Woods Leslie , Kokai-Kun John , McClane Bruce , Songer J. Glenn
Published: December 2023

Clostridium perfringens is the most common cause of clostridial enteric disease in domestic animals.

Many individuals have suggested that isolation of C perfringens type A from a horse with enteric disease is of little importance, even when other likely causes are ruled out; however, it appears that enterotoxigenic C perfringens type A may cause enteric disease in horses.
Therapeutic serum drug concentrations in epileptic dogs treated with potassium bromide alone or in combination with other anticonvulsants: 122 cases (1992-1996)
Authors: Trepanier Lauren A. , Van Schoick A'ndrea , Schwark Wayne S. , Carrillo Joseph
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine therapeutic serum drug concentrations in epileptic dogs treated with potassium bromide.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

122 dogs with major motor epilepsy.

Procedure

Medical histories were collected for epileptic dogs treated with potassium bromide with or without phenobarbital sodium or primidone, from which serum was submitted for bromide analysis from May 1992 to May 1996 to the Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Program at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine. A therapeutic response (improved seizure control) was defined as a ≥ 50% reduction in seizure frequency following initiation of bromide treatment. Serum bromide and phenobarbital concentrations and therapeutic outcome were determined for all dogs.

Results

72% of epileptic dogs had a ≥ 50% reduction in seizure frequency following initiation of treatment with potassium bromide. Discontinuation of barbiturate treatment was possible in 19% of those dogs originally treated with phenobarbital or primidone. Of those dogs continued on bromide and phenobarbital, 45% maintained seizure control with serum phenobarbital concentrations < 20 μg/ml. Significantly higher serum bromide concentrations were required when dogs were initially or eventually treated with bromide alone (mean bromide concentration, 1,906 μg/ml) compared with dogs treated with potassium bromide along with a barbiturate (mean bromide concentration, 1,621 μg/ml).

Clinical Implications

When dogs are treated with bromide and phenobarbital, a reasonable therapeutic range for serum bromide concentrations is 810 to 2,400 μg/ml, and for bromide treatment alone, the range is 880 to 3,000 μg/ml. When phenobarbital is used in combination with bromide, a reasonable therapeutic range for serum phenobarbital concentrations is 9 to 36 μg/ml, although in some dogs treated with bromide, phenobarbital can eventually be discontinued. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:1449-1453)
Ovarian torsion as a cause of colic in a neonatal foal
Authors: Valk Neal , Davis Eric W. , Blackford James T.
Published: December 2023

Ovarian torsion should be included as a differential diagnosis for acute signs of abdominal pain in fillies, particularly when abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract are not evident during laparotomy.
Effects of enalapril maleate on survival of dogs with naturally acquired heart failure
Authors: Ettinger S. J. , Benitz A. M. , Ericsson G. F. , Cifelli S. , Jernigan A. D. , Longhofer S. L. , Trimboli W. , Hanson P. D. , _ _
Published: December 2023

Objective

To test the long-term effect of enalapril maleate treatment on progression of clinical signs of heart disease in dogs with moderate or severe naturally acquired heart failure associated with chronic degenerative mitral valvular disease (mitral regurgitation [MR]) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Design

Prospective multicenter study.

Animals

110 dogs enrolled at 15 locations in the United States.

Procedure

All dogs enrolled in this study were maintained on their randomly allocated treatment regimen until death, treatment failure (deterioration of condition requiring additional medication), or termination of the study. All dogs entered in the study received standard heart failure treatment (furosemide with or without digoxin). Statistical analysis (log-rank test) was performed to compare the distribution of number of days in the study between dogs that received placebo tablets and dogs that received enalapril tablets.

Results

When dogs with MR and DCM were grouped together, mean number of days until treatment failure was significantly different between those receiving enalapril and those given placebo tablets (157.5 and 77.0 days, respectively). For dogs with MR, mean number of days until treatment failure was significantly different between those receiving enalapril and placebo tablets (159.5 and 86.6 days, respectively). Mean number of days until treatment failure among dogs with DCM receiving enalapril and placebo tablets was 142.8 and 56.5, respectively.

Clinical Implications

Use of enalapril in combination with standard treatment (diuretics with or without digoxin) appears to be beneficial over an extended period, compared with standard treatment alone. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:1573–1577)
Pure red cell aplasia in cats: 9 cases (1989–1997)
Authors: Stokol Tracy , Blue Julia T.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate clinical features, laboratory test results, treatment, and outcome of FeLV-negative cats with pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) diagnosed by examination of bone marrow.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

9 cats.

Procedure

Medical records and smears of bone marrow aspirates were reviewed to determine clinical features, laboratory test results, treatment, and outcome of this syndrome in cats.

Results

PRCA was diagnosed in 9 cats that were between 8 months and 3 years old. Cats had 2- to 16-day histories of lethargy and anorexia, and a severe normocytic, normochromic to hypochromic, nonregenerative anemia (Hct range, 6 to 15%; reference range, 25 to 45%). Other hematologic values were generally within reference ranges. Consistent changes in biochemical profiles included high aminotransferase activities and hyperferremia. Cats were seronegative for FeLV and feline immunodeficiency virus. Smears of bone marrow aspirates were characterized by absence of identifiable erythroid precursors and a high proportion of small lymphocytes. Abnormalities were not identified in megakaryocytes or myeloid cells. Treatment with immunosuppressive drugs (corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide or cyclosporin) resulted in resolution of anemia within 3 to 5 weeks. Most cats required long-term treatment to maintain Hct within reference range and tended to relapse when treatment frequency or dosage was decreased (especially if done rapidly) or treatment was discontinued.

Clinical Implications

PRCA is a rare syndrome in young FeLV-negative cats, and is characterized by severe nonregenerative anemia and absence of erythroid cells in bone marrow. The condition requires prompt, aggressive, often long-term treatment with immunosuppressive drugs for resolution. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:75–79)
Cecocolic and cecocecal intussusception in horses: 30 cases (1976–1996)
Authors: Martin B. B. , Freeman D. E. , Ross M. W. , Richardson D. W. , Johnston J.K. , Orsini J. A.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the prognosis in horses with cecocolic or cecocecal intussusception.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

30 horses with cecocolic intussusception or cecocecal intussusception.

Procedure

Information on history, physical examination findings, and laboratory values was summarized from the medical records. Laboratory data included results of hematologic examination, serum biochemical analysis, and peritoneal fluid color, total nucleated cell count, and total protein concentration. A one-year follow-up via the telephone was used to determine long-term survival.

Results

Horses ranged from 7 months to 30 years old, but 63% were ≤ 3 years. Standardbred horses were significantly overrepresented. Twenty-six horses had acute-to-subacute disease, and 4 had a chronic wasting disease. Cecal intussusceptions were suspected on the basis of finding a mass on abdominal palpation per rectum (14 of 24 horses) and positive ultrasonographic findings (2 of 3 horses). Thirteen horses with colic for > 1 day had scant, soft feces.

Six horses died or were euthanatized without undergoing surgery, and 24 were treated surgically. Six of the latter horses were euthanatized during surgery because of peritonitis, rupture of the cecum, and irreducible intussusception. All 4 horses with a chronic disease were euthanatized because of irreversible changes in the cecum. Of the 18 horses allowed to recover from surgery, 15 survived long-term. Surgical treatments were reduction, with or without partial typhlectomy (6 horses), partial typhlectomy through a colotomy and reduction (6), reduction through a colotomy and partial typhlectomy (3), partial typhlectomy for a cecocecal intussusception (1) and an ileocolostomy (2).

Clinical Implications

Cecal intussusception has a good prognosis with surgical correction without delay. Reduction through colotomy has a high success rate. Bypass by ileocolostomy should be used as a last resort. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:80–84)
Efficacy of etodolac for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the hip joints in dogs
Authors: Budsberg S. C. , Johnston S. A. , Schwarz P. D. , DeCamp C. E. , Claxton R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To assess the efficacy of etodolac in improving hind limb function in dogs with osteoarthritis of the hip joint.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

100 client-owned dogs with clinical signs of osteoarthritis of the hip joint.

Procedure

Baseline ground reaction forces and subjective assessment scores were collected twice at a 7- to 10-day interval. After meeting entrance criteria, dogs were randomly assigned to the following 3 treatment groups: control group (0 mg of etodolac), low-dosage group (135 mg of etodolac), or high-dosage group (450 mg of etodolac). Dogs were treated once daily for 8 days, and gait analysis was repeated on day 8.

Results

On day 8 of treatment, vertical impulse and vertical peak force values for low- and high-dosage groups were significantly greater than baseline values within each group. On day 8, vertical impulse values from the high-dosage group were significantly greater than values from the low-dosage group. Vertical peak forces for the low- and high-dosage groups were significantly greater at 8 days than that of the control group. Analysis of the effect of evaluation center (site) on treatment outcome did not reveal a significant effect.

Clinical Implications

Etodolac administration for 8 days improved ground reaction forces in dogs with osteoarthritis of the hip joint. Improvement in force transmission was dosage dependent for the primary outcome measurement (vertical impulse). Results of the study indicate that etodolac is well tolerated by dogs, with minimal adverse effects during an 8-day treatment period. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:206–210)
Evaluation of serologic and viral detection methods for diagnosing feline herpesvirus-1 infection in cats with acute respiratory tract or chronic ocular disease
Authors: Maggs David J. , Lappin Michael R. , Reif John S. , Collins James K. , Carman Jane , Dawson Denise A. , Bruns Christa
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the value of virus isolation (VI), immunofluorescent antibody (IFA) assay, serum neutralization (SN), and ELISA for the diagnosis of clinical feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) infection in cats.

Animals

46 clinically normal cats, 17 cats with signs of acute respiratory tract disease, and 38 cats with signs of chronic ocular disease.

Procedure

Conjunctival swabs for VI, conjunctival scrapings for IFA testing, and venous blood samples for SN or ELISA testing were obtained from all cats.

Results

FHV-1 was detected in 10.9 and 28.3% of clinically normal cats and in 18.2 and 33.3% of cats with FHV-1-associated disease by VI and the IFA assay, respectively. There were no significant differences in the viral detection rate between cats with acute respiratory tract disease and cats with chronic ocular disease or between diseased cats and clinically normal cats; however, FHV-1 was never detected by both methods in clinically normal cats. Overall FHV-1 seroprevalence was 97% when tested by ELISA and 66% when tested by SN. Seroprevalence did not vary significantly among the 3 groups for either serologic test. Magnitude of SN and ELISA titers varied greatly but independently of presence or absence of clinical signs of FHV-1-associated disease. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were assessed for VI and the IFA assay—jointly and individually—and for each SN and ELISA titer magnitude. Values never all exceeded 50%.

Clinical Implications

Because FHV-1 can be detected commonly in clinically normal cats by the IFA assay or VI, neither test appears to aid in the clinical diagnosis of FHV-1 infection. Seroprevalence does not appear to vary between affected and clinically normal cats. SN, ELISA, VI, and the IFA assay appear to be of limited value in the diagnosis of FHV-1-associated disease in cats. Concurrent assessment of the IFA assay and VI results may permit exclusion of FHV-1 as an etiologic agent if results of both tests are negative. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:502–507)
Clinical features of inflammatory liver disease in cats: 41 cases (1983–1993)
Authors: Gagne Josanne M. , Armstrong P. Jane , Weiss Douglas J. , Lund Elizabeth M. , Feeney Daniel A. , King Vickie L.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare the clinical and clinicopathologic findings in and prognosis for cats with lymphocytic portal hepatitis (LPH) versus cats with acute or chronic cholangiohepatitis (CH).

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

25 cats with LPH; 16 cats with CH (7 acute, 9 chronic).

Procedure

Cats with LPH and CH were selected by evaluating records from liver biopsy specimens submitted to the University of Minnesota Veterinary Teaching Hospital during a 10-year period. Clinical and clinicopathologic data were retrieved.

Results

Cats with CH had higher segmented and band neutrophil counts, alanine aminotransferase activities, and total bilirubin concentrations than did cats with LPH. Cats with acute CH had higher segmented and band neutrophil counts and lower serum alkaline phosphatase activities and total bilirubin concentrations than did cats with chronic CH. Twelve of 14 cats with LPH or CH had coarse or nodular texture to the liver on ultrasonography, with loss of portal vein wall clarity noticed in 4 of 8 cats with LPH. Sixteen of 23 cats with LPH and 8 of 15 cats with CH survived > 1 year. Of those cats living < 1 year, all cats with LPH and 5 of 7 cats with CH had a serious concurrent illness that may have been responsible for their deaths.

Clinical Implications

LPH and CH can be detected and tentatively differentiated through evaluation of clinical laboratory test results, but histologic evaluation of liver specimens is necessary for definitive differentiation. Survival time was good regardless of the type of inflammatory liver disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999:214:513–516)
Dental wear and growth performance in steers fed sweetpotato cannery waste
Authors: Rogers Glenn M. , Poore Matthew H. , Ferko Barbara L. , Brown Talmage T. , Deaton Thomas G. , Bawden James W.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether feeding sweetpotato cannery waste (SPCW) to cattle had adverse effects on dental wear, growth performance, or ruminal tissues.

Design

Clinical trial.

Animals

36 Holstein steers.

Procedure

Steers were assigned to 1 of 3 groups. All steers received ryegrass hay ad libitum. In addition, steers in group 1 were fed 3.2 kg of corn and soybean meal/steer/d, steers in group 2 were fed 0.45 kg of soybean meal/steer/d and SPCW ad libitum, and steers in group 3 were fed a mixture of SPCW and broiler litter ad libitum. Samples of rumen fluid were collected on day 56. Steers were slaughtered on day 84, and samples of rumen were submitted for histologic examination. Teeth from control steers were removed, and calcium ion loss in response to etching with 2.28% lactic acid solutions buffered to pH of 3.75, 4.0, 4.25, 4.5, and 4.75 was determined.

Results

Average daily gain was lower for steers fed SPCW than for steers in the other 2 groups. Steers fed the SPCW-broiler litter mixture had only mild increases in tooth wear and tooth color scores, compared with control steers, whereas steers fed unbuffered SPCW had substantial increases in tooth wear and tooth color scores. Histologic abnormalities were detected in rumens from steers fed diets containing SPCW. Calcium ion loss decreased as pH of the etching solution increased.

Clinical Implications

Results indicate that feeding cattle unbuffered SPCW can cause dental erosion, ruminal epithelial changes, and poor growth; however, SPCW buffered with broiler litter can be used as a cattle feed. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:681–687)
Comparison of medical and surgical treatment for impaction of the small colon in horses: 84 cases (1986–1996)
Authors: Rhoads William S. , Barton Michelle H. , Parks Andrew H.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To characterize clinical findings and compare effects of treatment and outcome for horses treated medically or surgically for impaction of the small colon.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

84 horses with impaction of the small colon.

Procedure

Medical records were reviewed for history, physical examination findings, laboratory values, treatment, response to treatment, complications, outcome, and necropsy findings.

Results

47 horses were treated medically and 37 horses were treated surgically. Significant differences between groups were not identified for duration of clinical signs, physical examination findings, or laboratory values. Horses treated surgically were hospitalized longer than horses treated medically. Complications recorded during hospitalization included diarrhea, jugular thrombophlebitis, recurrent colic, fever, and laminitis. Salmonella organisms were isolated from 20 horses. Horses treated surgically were more likely to have signs of moderate abdominal pain, gross abdominal distention, and positive results for culture of Salmonella spp than horses treated medically. Follow-up information was available for 27 horses treated medically and 23 horses treated surgically. Twenty-four (72%) and 21 (75%) of the horses, respectively, survived and were being used for their intended purpose at least 1 year after treatment.

Clinical Implications

Colitis may be a predisposing factor for impaction of the small colon in horses. Prognosis for horses treated surgically or medically is fair. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:1042–1047)
Specificity of assays used by regulatory agencies to detect antibiotic residues in tissues of culled dairy cows
Authors: Payne Michael A. , McBride Michael D. , Utterback William W. , Breitmeyer Richard E. , Alberg Lael , Martin Dave , Cullor James
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine percentage of false-positive test results for assays used by regulatory agencies to detect antibiotic residues in tissues.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

426 dairy cows.

Procedure

Dairy cows scheduled for culling that were identified as being unlikely to have antibiotic residues in tissues on the basis of strict inclusion criteria were used. A sample of kidney obtained from each cow at slaughter was tested on-site, using the swab test on premises (STOP; 97 samples) or the fast antibiotic screening test (FAST; 329 samples). Frozen samples (n = 1,278) of liver, muscle, and kidney were thawed and retested at a federal laboratory, using the same screening assays. Kidney and liver samples (n = 852) were also tested using the 7-plate bioassay confirmation test used for confirmation and identification of antibiotic residues.

Results

Results of screening assays performed onsite were negative. When frozen samples were retested, 20 (12 liver, 7 kidney, and 1 muscle) had positive FAST results, but none had positive STOP results. Of the samples tested with the 7-plate bioassay confirmation test, 4 liver samples had results indicating a tetracycline (n = 3) or an unidentified microbial inhibitor (1) as a residue.

Clinical Implications

Results suggest it is unlikely that regulatory action will be taken against producers sending untreated cattle to market. However, because results of the FAST and 7-plate bioassay confirmation test were positive when applied to frozen tissue, use of assays based on microbial inhibition may not be valid for confirmation of residues. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:1048–1050)
Breeding soundness examination of North American bison bulls
Authors: Keen James E. , Rupp Gary P. , Wittenberg Paul A. , Walker Ronald E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the breeding soundness examination procedure in plains bison bulls.

Design

Multiyear (1993 through 1997) cross-sectional clinical procedure evaluation.

Animals

Two hundred thirty-four 28- to 30-month-old bison bulls at Custer State Park

Procedure

Breeding soundness examinations were performed on all bison bulls using 1992 Society for Theriogenology guidelines for beef cattle semen evaluation and reproductive tract examination. Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to detect correlations and associations among breeding soundness examination variables.

Results

Scrotal circumference (SC) was significantly correlated with body weight, percentage of normal spermatozoa, percentage of primary spermatozoal defects, and percentage of motile spermatozoa. Scrotal circumference was positively associated with increased odds of semen collection, satisfactory motility (≥ 30% motility), satisfactory morphology (≥ 70% normal spermatozoa), and simultaneous satisfactory motility and morphology. Receiver-operator characteristic curve analysis selected 29 cm as the optimal SC cutoff most predictive of simultaneous satisfactory spermatozoal motility and morphology. Only 36.2% (83/229) of the bison bulls had a SC of 29 cm or greater and satisfactory spermatozoal motility and morphology.

Clinical Implications

SC is a good indicator of adequate spermatozoal motility and structure in bison. We recommend use of 30% spermatozoal motility, 70% normal spermatozoal morphology, and 29-cm SC as minimal satisfactory measurements for breeding soundness examinations of 28- to 30-month-old bison bulls that have been raised on forage-based nutrition. (J Am Vet Mec Assoc 1999;214:1212–1217)
Guidelines for development and application of aquatic animal health regulations and control programs
Authors: Mitchell Hugh , Stoskopf Michael K.
Published: December 2023

The creation of sound health regulations or disease control programs for any animal species is a complex endeavor. When the diverse stakeholder interests related to aquaculture are considered, this endeavor becomes daunting.

The AVMA Aquaculture and Seafood Advisory Committee designed the following guidelines as a tool to assist aquatic animal health professionals who discuss potential regulations or control programs with government and industry entities. The guide focuses on determining whether a regulation or program is appropriate and, if so, developing a suitable and effective aquatic animal health plan.

The Aquaculture and Seafood Advisory Committee was established in 1992 as an ad hoc committee of the AVMA Executive Board. The committee is composed of 9 veterinarians with diverse interests in aquaculture and seafood, and one non-veterinarian who represents the aquaculture industry. Participants from the USDA/APHIS and FDA serve as consultants to the Committee.
Dietary and other management factors associated with colic in horses
Authors: Cohen Noah D. , Gibbs Peter G. , Woods April M.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether dietary and other management factors were associated with development of colic in horses.

Design

Prospective matched case-control study.

Population

2,060 horses examined by veterinarians in private practice in Texas for colic and noncolic emergencies.

Procedure

Each month for 12 months, participating veterinarians were sent forms to collect information on 1 horse with colic and 1 horse that received emergency treatment for a condition other than colic. Information collected included signalment, farm management and characteristics, diet, medical and preventive medical factors, transport, and activity or use. Case and control horses were compared by means of conditional logistic regression to identify factors associated with colic.

Results

Recent change in diet, recent change in type of hay, history of previous episode of colic, history of abdominal surgery for colic, recent change in weather conditions, recent change in housing, Arabian breed, administration of an anthelmintic during the 7-day period prior to examination, failure to receive regular deworming, age > 10 years, and regular exercise (vs pastured at all times) were associated with increased risk of colic.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Results suggest that changes in diet (particularly in type of hay fed) contribute to increased risk of colic. A regular program for administration of anthelmintics may reduce the overall frequency at which colic develops, but recent administration of anthelmintics may predispose some horses to colic. Arabian horses may have an increased risk of colic, and horses at pasture may have a decreased risk of colic. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:53-60)
Effects of blood contamination of cerebrospinal fluid on western blot analysis for detection of antibodies against Sarcocystis neurona and on albumin quotient and immunoglobulin G index in horses
Authors: Miller Margaret M. , Sweeney Corinne R. , Russell Gail E. , Sheetz R. Michael , Morrow Jennifer K.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine effects of blood contamination on western blot (WB) analysis of CSF samples for detection of anti-Sarcocystis neurona antibodies, and on CSF albumin and IgG concentrations, albumin quotient (AQ), and IgG index in horses.

Design

Prospective in vitro study.

Samples

Blood with various degrees of immunoreactivity against S neurona was collected from 12 healthy horses. Cerebrospinal fluid without immunoreactivity against S neurona was harvested from 4 recently euthanatized horses.

Procedure

Blood was serially diluted with pooled nonimmunoreactive CSF so that final dilutions corresponded to 10-3 to 100 μl of blood/ml CSF, and WB analysis was performed on contaminated CSF samples. Number of RBC, albumin and IgG concentrations, AQ, and IgG index were also determined.

Results

Antibodies against S neurona were detected in CSF contaminated with 10-3 μl of strongly immunoreactive blood/ml. In CSF samples contaminated with 10 μl of blood/ml, AQ remained within reference range. Volume of blood required to increase IgG index varied among blood samples and was primarily influenced by serum IgG concentrations. Number of RBC in contaminated samples was correlated with volume of blood added, but not with degree of immunoreactivity detected in contaminated CSF samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

During collection of CSF from horses, contamination with blood may introduce serum antibodies against S neurona at concentrations sufficient for detection by WB analysis, thus yielding false-positive results. When blood is moderately or strongly immunoreactive, the amount of contaminating albumin may be small enough as to not increase AQ above reference range. In these cases, AQ and IgG index should be interpreted with caution. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:67—71)
Resting rectal temperature of Vietnamese potbellied pigs
Authors: Lord Linda K. , Wittum Thomas E. , Anderson David E. , Riffle Dale , Lathrop Sarah L. , Lauderdale Margaret A.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine resting rectal temperatures of Vietnamese potbellied pigs.

Design

Prospective clinical trial.

Animals

85 potbellied pigs on a single farm and 27 potbellied pigs examined at a veterinary teaching hospital for routine veterinary care.

Procedure

Rectal temperatures of the potbellied pigs on a farm were measured during the morning, afternoon, and evening. Rectal temperatures at the time of initial examination were obtained from medical records for the potbellied pigs examined at the hospital.

Results

Mean rectal temperatures for both groups of potbellied pigs were the same. Overall unadjusted mean ± SD rectal temperature was 37.6 ± 0.8 C (99.7 ± 1.5 F; range, 35.1 to 39.6 C [95.2 to 103.3 F]). However, diurnal variation in rectal temperature was found among the farm population of potbellied pigs. After adjustment for age and repeated sampling, rectal temperatures recorded during the morning were found to be significantly lower than temperatures recorded during the afternoon and evening (mean difference, 0.5 and 0.9 C [0.9 and 1.6 F], respectively), and rectal temperatures recorded during the afternoon were found to be significantly lower than temperatures recorded during the evening (mean difference, 0.4 C [0.7 F]). There was a significant inverse linear relationship between age and rectal temperature.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Rectal temperatures of Vietnamese potbellied pigs may be lower than the lower limit of the reference range reported for domestic pigs. Because of diurnal variation in rectal temperatures, it is important to compare temperatures obtained at the same time of day when assessing patients. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:342–344)
Cardiopulmonary measurements in dogs undergoing gastropexy without gastrectomy for correction of gastric dilatation-volvulus
Authors: Wagner Ann E. , Dunlop Colin I. , Chapman Phillip L.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To measure cardiopulmonary variables, including cardiac index, in dogs with naturally acquired gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).

Design

Prospective clinical study.

Animals

6 dogs with GDV.

Procedure

In addition to typical medical and surgical management of GDV, the dorsal metatarsal and pulmonary arteries and right atrium of the dogs were catheterized to obtain cardiopulmonary measurements before and during anesthesia and surgery.

Results

All dogs underwent gastropexy but none required gastrectomy. Mean cardiac index and mean arterial blood pressure for this small population of dogs with GDV were not significantly different from those reported for clinically normal awake or anesthetized dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Dogs with naturally acquired GDV without gastric necrosis may not have the classic characteristics, including decreased cardiac index and hypotension, of hypovolemic circulatory shock. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:484—488).