Vascularity evaluation of the equine tarsocrural and proximal intertarsal joint septum, and comparative analysis of two arthroscopic transection techniques.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate vascularity of the synovial membrane covered septum (SMS) separating the tarsocrural (TC) and proximal intertarsal (PIT) joints (Part 1) and compare two methods of transection, electrosurgical or Ferris Smith rongeur (FS rongeur) (Part 2). STUDY DESIGN: Experimental study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Part 1, 10 SMS (n = 5 horses). Part 2, six horses (n = 12 tarsi). METHODS: In part 1, SMS harvested postmortem were each divided into eight regions of interest (ROIs), processed for histology, and immunostained with anti-α-actin antibody for blood vessel identification. Vascular density was calculated for each ROI. Data was compared within and between horses. In part 2, six horses underwent TC arthroscopy. Each limb was randomly assigned to undergo either electrosurgical or FS rongeur SMS transection. SMS transection and total operative time were recorded. Intraoperative hemorrhage was scored. Data was compared between both techniques. RESULTS: Significant interindividual variations in SMS vascular density were detected (p = .02), but there were no differences among ROIs. No differences in the transection time were detected between electrosurgery (4.83 ± 0.54 min) and FS rongeur (4.33 ± 0.67 min). No differences were found in intraoperative hemorrhage scores between techniques. CONCLUSION: Vascularity within the SMS varies among horses but not within its regions. Electrosurgical or FS rongeur transection of the medial SMS during tarsocrural arthroscopy is a rapid technique and improves surgical access to the dorsal compartment of the PIT.

Flock size increases with the diversity and abundance of local predators in an avian family.

Group living has long been viewed as an adaptation to reduce predation risk. Earlier comparative analyses provided support for the hypothesis but typically ignored variation in group size at the local scale and included proxies of predation risk rather than more direct estimates. Here, we related variation in group size at the scale of a study site in various species with the diversity and abundance of local predators. If larger groups provide protection against predators, we expected larger groups to evolve in species facing locally more diverse and abundant predators. We examined this hypothesis in one avian family, the Paridae, which are small arboreal birds that include some of the better studied species in ecology. From the literature, we gathered 275 flock size estimates from 34 species. In a phylogenetic framework and controlling for the potential confounding effect of latitude, we found that flock size increased with predation risk but only in flocks that included more than one species. We suggest that competition sets an upper limit to the size of flocks including conspecifics only. Joining flocks with other species, thus, allows individuals to increase flock size in response to higher predation risk without a substantial increase in competition. Overall, our results based on more direct estimates of predation risk provide further comparative evidence for an association between predation and the evolution of flocking in birds.

Iatrogenic adrenal atrophy following oral corticotherapy is not reliably identified ultrasonographically in cats.

Background: In dogs, corticosteroid administration is known to decrease adrenal gland height when measured ultrasonographically. However, comparable information is lacking in cats. Objectives: i) Validate that the adrenal height of our control population without corticosteroid administration was similar to previous data, ii) determine effects of dose and duration of oral corticosteroid therapy on adrenal height, and iii) determine an adrenal size threshold to differentiate cats receiving corticosteroids or not. Animals and procedures: Adult cats (N = 308) that received abdominal ultrasonographic examination(s) were retrospectively recruited and allocated into 2 groups: those with and without oral corticosteroid use. Cats receiving corticosteroids were subdivided into 6 subgroups by dose (supraphysiologic, anti-inflammatory, or immunosuppressive) and duration of therapy (≤ 1 mo or > 1 mo). Results: Adrenal height in cats without corticosteroid therapy was comparable to previous studies. An anti-inflammatory corticosteroid dose for > 1 mo caused a 21.4% decrease in adrenal height (mean difference of 0.8 mm; P = 0.009). However, no difference in adrenal height was noted in the other subgroups (P > 0.21), and no useful adrenal height threshold was established. Conclusion and clinical relevance: Feline iatrogenic adrenal atrophy may be difficult to establish with ultrasonography, as only cats receiving anti-inflammatory corticosteroid doses for > 1 mo had a modest (< 1 mm) decrease in adrenal height.

L'atrophie iatrogène des surrénales consécutive à une corticothérapie orale n'est pas identifiée de manière fiable par échographie chez le chat. Contexte: Chez le chien, l'administration de corticostéroïdes est connue pour diminuer la taille des glandes surrénales lorsqu'elle est mesurée par échographie. Cependant, des informations comparables manquent chez les chats. Objectifs: i) Valider que la taille des surrénales de notre population témoin sans administration de corticostéroïdes était similaire aux données précédentes, ii) déterminer les effets de la dose et de la durée de la corticothérapie orale sur la taille des surrénales, et iii) déterminer un seuil de taille des surrénales pour différencier les chats recevant des corticostéroïdes ou pas. Animaux et procédures: Des chats adultes (N = 308) qui ont subi un ou plusieurs examens échographiques abdominaux ont été recrutés rétrospectivement et répartis en 2 groupes : ceux avec et sans corticothérapie orale. Les chats recevant des corticostéroïdes ont été subdivisés en 6 sous-groupes selon la dose (supraphysiologique, anti-inflammatoire ou immunosuppresseur) et la durée du traitement (≤ 1 mois ou > 1 mois). Résultats: La taille des surrénales chez les chats sans corticothérapie était comparable à celle des études précédentes. Une dose de corticoïdes anti-inflammatoires pendant > 1 mois a entraîné une diminution de 21,4 % de la taille des surrénales (différence moyenne de 0,8 mm; P = 0,009). Cependant, aucune différence de taille surrénalienne n'a été notée dans les autres sous-groupes (P > 0,21) et aucun seuil de taille surrénalienne utile n'a été établi. Conclusion et pertinence clinique: L'atrophie surrénalienne iatrogène féline peut être difficile à établir par échographie, car seuls les chats recevant des doses de corticostéroïdes anti-inflammatoires pendant > 1 mois ont présenté une diminution modeste (< 1 mm) de la taille des surrénales.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

EFFECTS OF A SINGLE ORAL DOSE OF TRAZODONE ON BEHAVIOR AND SERUM CORTISOL LEVELS IN BLUE WILDEBEEST (CONNOCHAETES TAURINUS).

Trazodone is a dose-dependent serotonin antagonist and agonist used to treat anxiety-related conditions. Trauma has been identified as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in several nondomestic ruminant species and can be exacerbated by stress. In a recent study in domestic goats (Capra aegagrus hircus), trazodone reduced activity levels without adverse effects. Trazodone could allow for safer capture and handling in nondomestic ruminant species. The objectives of this study were to identify a dose of trazodone that decreases activity levels in captive blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus) and to evaluate its safety and its effects on serum cortisol levels following a routine veterinary procedure. A pilot study using ethograms identified a group fed 15 mg/kg oral dose of trazodone as effective to reduce activity levels. Over 6 h, this dose resulted in a 111% increase in time spent sleeping or resting (P = 0.0003), a 41% increase in time spent lying down (P = 0.0016), a 64% reduction in time spent moving (P= 0.005), and a 65% reduction in time spent being vigilant (P= 0.026). Systemic absorption of trazodone was identified when plasma concentrations were measured after 2 h (95 ± 48 µg/L). Serum cortisol levels during a routine venipuncture event were not significantly different following trazodone administration (P > 0.05). Mild hyporexia was the only adverse effect noted at 15 mg/kg and was absent at a 12 mg/kg dose. Trazodone appears safe and promising to decrease activity in blue wildebeest and might thus have a positive effect on nondomestic ruminant welfare and the safety of veterinary procedures.

Bilateral thoracic radiographs increase lesion detection in horses with pneumonia or pulmonary neoplasia but do not bring any additional benefit for inflammatory or diffuse pulmonary disease.

Published studies describing the effects of bilateral radiographic projections on the detection of equine pulmonary lesions are currently lacking. The objectives of this retrospective, single center, observational study were to compare unilateral and bilateral thoracic radiographic projections for the detection of pulmonary lesions in a group of horses. Based on their clinical diagnosis, 167 adults and foals with bilateral thoracic radiographs were classified as having pneumonia (n = 88), inflammatory or diffuse pulmonary disease (n = 72), and pulmonary masses (n = 7). After an initial interrater repeatability test, right-to-left and left-to-right projections were anonymized and independently interpreted by a radiologist blinded to the clinical diagnosis. Scores were attributed for each pattern/lesion (alveolar, interstitial, bronchial, nodules/masses, cavitary lesions) and each quadrant. Agreement between scores from each projection was evaluated with Bland-Altman plots. Lesions identified on one side but not on the contralateral projection were considered discordant. There was no preferential lateralization of pulmonary lesions. The prevalence of discordance was 14.4%, 9.0%, and 4.2% for alveolar pattern, nodules/masses, and cavitary lesions, respectively. Up to nine horses (10.2%) with pneumonia could have been misdiagnosed. A pulmonary mass would have been missed in one case. For inflammatory or diffuse disease, discordance was slight, and the addition of contralateral projections had no impact on radiographic interpretation. In conclusion, in horses with pneumonia or neoplasia, bilateral projections, or adding at least one contralateral caudoventral view, increased the probability of identifying pulmonary lesions. In horses with inflammatory or diffuse disease, bilateral thoracic radiography provided no additional benefit.

HEALTH STATUS INCLUDING LEAD LEVELS OF NESTLING BALD EAGLES (HALIAEETUS LEUCOCEPHALUS) ON PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA IN 2012 AND 2013.

Published research on the health status of wild bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in Eastern Canada is limited. This study examined the health status of 53 nestling bald eagles on Prince Edward Island in the summers of 2012 and 2013, including biochemistry reference intervals, a summary of hematological parameters, and background lead accumulation. Baseline lead levels of greater than 0.02 ppm were noted in nine nestlings, and the odds of lead accumulation decreased with increased weight and body condition score. Biochemical reference intervals were developed using a method outlined by the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology. These intervals can vary between populations based on age and geographic area. These findings will therefore be useful in further research and clinical cases within this population, as well as further research into subclinical lead accumulation in growing raptors.

Putative antigenic proteins identified by comparative and subtractive reverse vaccinology in necrotic enteritis-causing Clostridium perfringens isolated from broiler chickens.

BACKGROUND: Avian necrotic enteritis (NE) caused by Clostridium perfringens is a disease with a major economic impact, generating losses estimated to 6 billion of dollars annually for the poultry industry worldwide. The incidence of the disease is particularly on the rise in broiler chicken flocks eliminating the preventive use of antibiotics. To date, no alternative allows for the efficient prevention of NE and a control of the disease using a vaccinal strategy would be mostly prized. For this purpose, comparative and subtractive reverse vaccinology identifying putative immunogenic bacterial surface proteins is one of the most promising approaches. RESULTS: A comparative genomic study was performed on 16 C. perfringens strains isolated from healthy broiler chickens and from broilers affected with necrotic enteritis. Results showed that the analyzed genomes were composed of 155,700 distinct proteins from which 13% were identified as extracellular, 65% as cytoplasmic and 22% as part of the bacterial membrane. The evaluation of the immunogenicity of these proteins was determined using the prediction software VaxiJen®. CONCLUSIONS: For the most part, proteins with the highest scores were associated with an extracellular localisation. For all the proteins analyzed, the combination of both the immunogenicity score and the localisation prediction led to the selection of 12 candidate proteins that were mostly annotated as hypothetical proteins. We describe 6 potential candidates of higher interest due to their antigenic potential, their extracellular localisation, and their possible role in virulence of C. perfringens.

Do avian species survive better on islands?

Island species are often predictably different from their mainland counterparts. Milder climates and reduced predation risk on islands have been involved to explain shifts in body size and a suite of life-history traits such as clutch size and offspring growth rate. Despite the key role of adult survival on risk taking and reproduction, the prediction that living on islands increases adult survival has yet to be tested systematically. I gathered data on adult annual apparent survival from the island and mainland year-round resident species of birds from around the world. With this large dataset (697 species), I found that species of birds living on islands showed higher apparent survival than their mainland counterparts in the two Hemispheres and at all latitudes, controlling for several known predictors of adult survival, including body size, clutch size and breeding system. These results shed light on the ecological factors that influence survival on islands and extend the life-history island syndrome to adult survival.

Flocking in birds increases annual adult survival in a global analysis.

Adaptive hypotheses for the evolution of group foraging in animals typically invoke enhanced foraging efficiency and reduced predation risk. Net benefits of group foraging in different species should translate into a survival advantage for group members. Despite numerous interspecific studies in birds and mammals, few have documented a survival advantage for group foraging species. Using a large dataset in birds (> 1100 species worldwide), I investigated whether annual adult apparent survival was higher in species that forage in flocks than in solitary species. Using a phylogenetic framework to account for relatedness among species and controlling for known correlates of adult survival in birds such as body size, clutch size, latitude, and diet, I documented a positive effect of flocking on annual adult apparent survival. The increase in survival was less pronounced in occasionally flocking species suggesting that the benefits of group foraging can depend on the frequency of its use. The results highlight how group foraging can increase fitness in animals.

Immunogenicity study of a Streptococcus suis autogenous vaccine in preparturient sows and evaluation of passive maternal immunity in piglets.

BACKGROUND: Streptococcus suis is an important pathogen that causes severe diseases mostly in weaned piglets. Only available vaccines in the field are those composed of killed bacteria (bacterins) but data about their effectiveness are missing. We report here a field study on the immunological response induced by an autogenous vaccine applied in pre-parturient sows. Using a farm with recurrent S. suis serotype 7 problems, the study was divided in three experiments: (I) Sows received the vaccine at 7 and 3 weeks pre-farrowing. (II) Replacement gilts introduced to the herd received the vaccine at 4 and 7 weeks after their entry in quarantine and a boost 3 weeks pre-farrowing. (III) Gilts from experiment II received another boost 3 weeks pre-farrowing at their 3rd/4th parity. Levels, isotype profile and opsonophagocytosis capacity of the serum antibodies induced by vaccination were evaluated in sows and maternal immunity in piglets. RESULTS: In sows (I), the vaccine induced a slight, albeit significant, increase in anti-S. suis total antibodies after 2 doses when compare to basal levels already present in the animals. These antibodies showed a high opsonic capacity in vitro, highlighting their potential protective capacity. A gilt vaccination program of 3 doses (II) resulted in a significant increase in anti-S. suis total antibodies. Levels of maternal immunity transferred to piglets were high at 7 days of age, but rapidly decreased by 18 days of age. A gilt vaccination program ensued a higher transfer of maternal immunity in piglets compared to control animals; nevertheless duration was not improved at 18 day-old piglets. The vaccine response in both gilts and sows was mainly composed of IgG1 subclass, which was also the main Ig transferred to piglets. IgG2 subclass was also found in piglets, but its level was not increased by vaccination. Finally, a recall IgG1 response was induced by another boost vaccination at 3rd/4th parity (III), indicating that the vaccine induced the establishment of a lasting memory response in the herd. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, an optimal gilt/sow vaccination program might result in increased antibody responses; nevertheless duration of maternal immunity would not last long enough to protect post-weaned piglets.

Behavioral evaluation of 65 aggressive dogs following a reported bite event.

Peer-reviewed scientific publications on the topic of dog bites are numerous. Montreal was one of the first municipalities in the province of Quebec to require mandatory assessment of aggressive dogs by veterinarians. In 2019, dogs reported as aggressive and considered a potential risk to public safety by city officials were scheduled for a mandatory behavioral assessment by a veterinarian. For the purpose of this study, only aggressive dogs that had bitten (N = 65) were included. The goals were to better describe the aggressive behavior of these dogs (behavioral sequence, type of aggression, and overall reactivity) and perhaps identify new possible risk factors related to severity of injury and dangerousness. The number of signs of increased arousal/reactivity was positively and significantly associated with the injury severity score. Dangerousness increased with size of dogs. Entire males were most dangerous despite absence of recognizable differences in body weight between neutered and unneutered males.

Évaluation comportementale de 65 chiens agressifs à la suite d'un épisode de morsure. Les publications scientifiques révisées par des pairs sur le sujet des morsures canines sont nombreuses. La Ville de Montréal fut parmi les premières municipalités du Québec à exiger l'évaluation comportementale de chiens agressifs par des médecins vétérinaires. En 2019, les chiens rapportés comme agressifs et jugés plus problématiques par des représentants de la ville furent soumis à une évaluation comportementale obligatoire par un médecin vétérinaire. Dans le cadre de cette étude, seuls les chiens ayant mordu (N = 65) ont été inclus. Les objectifs de l'étude étaient de mieux décrire le comportement agressif et d'identifier possiblement des facteurs de risques quant à la sévérité des blessures et la dangerosité des chiens. Le nombre de signes de réactivité augmentée était positivement et significativement associé avec le score de sévérité des blessures. La dangerosité augmentait avec le poids de l'animal. Les mâles entiers étaient plus dangereux que les mâles castrés et ce, sans différence de poids significative entre les chiens stérilisés ou entiers.(Traduit par les auteurs).

PHARMACOKINETICS AND CLINICAL EFFECTS OF A SINGLE ORAL DOSE OF TRAZODONE IN THE DOMESTIC GOAT (CAPRA HIRCUS) AS A MODEL FOR WILD RUMINANTS.

Trazodone is an antianxiety medication commonly used in human and veterinary medicine. Stress-related trauma is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in wild ruminant species. Trazodone could reduce stress and allow safer capture and handling, thus having a positive effect on their welfare. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical effects and pharmacokinetic profile of an oral dose of trazodone in domestic goats (Capra hircus) as a model for wild ruminants. A pilot study using ethograms and accelerometers identified an oral dose of 10 mg/kg as optimal to reduce activity levels. This dose resulted in a 502% increase in time spent sleeping (P=0.0016) and a 623% increase in time spent lying down (P=0.01). Additionally, there were reductions of 72% in time spent grooming (P=0.02), 49% in time spent moving (P=0.01), and 87% in time spent observing (P=0.0002). Activity levels were significantly decreased by 31% for 4 hr following administration (P=0.049). There were no observed adverse effects. Time spent eating or ruminating was not affected by trazodone administration (P > 0.05). The pharmacokinetics of trazodone following a single oral dose of 10 mg/kg in 7 goats was assessed. All animals achieved plasma concentrations over 130 ng/ml, a level considered therapeutic in humans and dogs, for a mean of 6.4 ± 5.0 hr. Mean terminal half-life was 10.55 ± 6.80 hr. All goats achieved maximum concentration within 5-15 min and still had detectable plasma levels at 24 hr. Trazodone appears promising to decrease stress in exotic ruminant species. Further research is warranted to establish its efficacy in other ruminant species and clinical situations.

PHARMACOKINETIC, PHARMACODYNAMIC, AND TOXICOLOGY STUDY OF ROBENACOXIB IN RAINBOW TROUT (ONCORHYNCHUS MYKISS).

Postoperative antinociception control in fish is currently suboptimal, as commonly used antiinflammatory drugs last for only a few hours at tested temperatures. Therefore, long-acting anti-inflammatory drugs, such as robenacoxib, could improve the welfare of fish. The pharmacokinetics, duration of antinociceptive action, and potential adverse effects of robenacoxib were evaluated through two prospective randomized blinded trials in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Six healthy rainbow trout received a single IM administration of robenacoxib (2 mg/kg), and two control fish received the same volume of saline IM. Blood samples were collected at predetermined time points for 5 d. Plasma robenacoxib concentrations were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution hybrid orbitrap mass spectrometry and noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. Ten additional rainbow trout received an intralabial injection of 0.05 ml of 2% acetic acid following a previously validated nociceptive model. The treated group (n = 6) received 2 mg/kg of robenacoxib IM and the control group (n = 4) received an equivalent volume of saline IM. The behavior, appetite, and opercular rate of the fish were evaluated every hour for 5 h, then once daily for 3 d. All 12 treated trout and 6 controls underwent histopathologic evaluation. Average maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) was 329.9 ± 137.3 ng/ml observed at 2.1 ± 0.7 h (Tmax) and terminal half-life was 12.6 ± 2.27 h. Plasma concentrations described as antinociceptive in domestic carnivores were measured for 3-4 d. This dose was associated with a significant decrease in rocking behavior (P = 0.017). No adverse effects were detected clinically nor on histopathology. Robenacoxib administered IM at 2 mg/kg appears to be safe and may provide an antinociceptive effect in rainbow trout. This study presents a new therapeutic option to provide long-lasting antinociception in rainbow trout.

Evaluation of 1,2-o-dilauryl-rac-glycero-3-glutaric acid-(6'-methylresorufin) ester lipase concentrations in cats with kidney disease and with normal SNAP fPL.

Measuring 1,2-o-dilauryl-rac-glycero-3-glutaric acid-(6'-methylresorufin) ester (DGGR) lipase activity is a cost-effective test for diagnosing pancreatitis compared to the feline pancreas-specific lipase (Spec fPL) test. However, little is known about the influence of renal insufficiency on DGGR lipase in cats. This study evaluated the influence of renal function on serum DGGR lipase in the cat. Serum samples from 49 cats with normal pancreas-specific lipase immunoreactivity were analyzed for DGGR lipase activity and serum creatinine. Median serum DGGR lipase activity for cats with kidney disease (KD+) was 22 IU/L (range: 9 to 29 IU/L), whereas for cats without kidney disease (KD-) and healthy cats, the medians were 16 IU/L (range: 6 to 32 IUI/L), and 15 IU/L (range: 9 to 23 IU/L), respectively. The KD+ group had significantly higher DGGR lipase concentrations compared to the healthy group (P = 0.030), but most results were within the reference range. There was a weak positive correlation between creatinine and DGGR lipase values (R 2 = 19.6%; P = 0.0014) and no significant correlation between symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) and DGGR lipase. Key clinical message: Although cats with kidney disease had significantly higher serum DGGR lipase concentrations than the healthy controls, the difference was small and does not appear to be clinically relevant.

Évaluation de la concentration de la lipase de l'ester de l'1,2-o-dilauryl-rac-glycero-3-acide glutarique-(6'-methylresorufine) chez les chats présentant une maladie rénale et un SNAP fPL normal. La lipase d'ester 1,2-o-dilauryl-rac-glycero-3-glutarique ester (6'-méthylrésorufine) (DGGR) semble être utile pour le diagnostic ante-mortem de pancréatite et s'avère également une méthode économique par rapport au dosage de la lipase féline spécifique du pancréas (Spec fPL). Toutefois, l'influence de l'insuffisance rénale sur la lipase DGGR, est encore méconnue chez le chat. Le but de cette étude prospective est d'établir l'influence de la fonction rénale sur la lipase DGGR chez les chats. Du sérum a été prélevé chez 49 chats ayant un test semi-quantitatif normal pour l'estimation de l'immunoréactivité pancréatique féline (SNAP fPL) et a été analysé pour déterminer l'activité sérique de la DGGR lipase et de la créatinine. La médiane sérique de la lipase DGGR chez les chats atteints de maladie rénale (groupe KD+) était de 22 (intervalle: 9­29) UI/L, tandis que celle des chats sans maladie rénale (groupe KD−) et celle des chats sains était de 16 (6­32) UI/L et 15 (9­23) UI/L, respectivement. Le groupe KD+ présentait des concentrations sériques de lipase DGGR significativement plus élevées que le groupe de chats sains (P = 0,030), mais la plupart des résultats se situaient dans les valeurs de référence. Il y avait une corrélation positive statistiquement significative, mais faible, entre les valeurs de la créatinine et de la lipase de DGGR (R 2 = 19,6 %; P = 0,0014). Il n'y avait pas de corrélation significative entre la symétrique diméthylarginine (SDMA) et la lipase DGGR.Message clinique clé:Ainsi, les chats atteints d'une maladie rénale présentent des concentrations sériques de lipase DGGR significativement plus élevées que celles des chats sains. Cependant, la différence est légère et ne semble pas être cliniquement pertinente.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Perceptions and opinions of pet owners in the United Sates about surgery, pain management, and anesthesia in dogs and cats.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate pet owners' perceptions and understanding of surgical pain, perioperative pain management, and anesthesia. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective owner survey. SAMPLE POPULATION: Eight veterinary hospitals each provided 200 surveys for distribution to pet owners. METHODS: A survey evaluated owners' perceptions and opinions related to surgical pain, perioperative pain management, anesthesia in dogs and cats, and owner demographics (sex, age, education, employment, previous surgical experience, and pet ownership) in 8 regions of the United States (Alaska, Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon, Ohio, Texas, Washington, DC). Effects of demographics on survey questions were analyzed by using a Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test. Descriptive statistics and frequency distributions were calculated when applicable. RESULTS: 948/1600 (59.25%) of distributed questionnaires were completed. Owners reported that analgesics were "always needed" more often for surgical procedures than medical conditions. Knowing what to expect during recovery (99%), being informed of procedures and risks (98%), adequate pain management (98%), and having a board-certified anesthesiologist perform anesthesia (94%) were considered "important" or "very important" by owners. The majority of owners agreed that pain affects quality of life (81%), interactions with family and pets (73%), and that declawing is a painful procedure (59%). Older respondents (>46 years), women, owners who have had previous surgery or who have pets that have had previous surgery, and those in health care professions have a better understanding of pain but also expect effective client communication. CONCLUSION: Improving our understanding of pet owners' perceptions and knowledge related to anesthesia, surgery, and pain may lead to improved client education, satisfaction, and compliance with administration of analgesics.

Agreement among undergraduate and graduate veterinary students and veterinary anesthesiologists on pain assessment in cats and dogs: A preliminary study.

This study investigated agreement among undergraduate and graduate veterinary students and veterinary anesthesiologists on video pain assessment at the University of Montreal. Pain assessment in dogs and cats appeared to be affected by gender, previous experience, and degree of training despite a small population of observers.

Accord entre étudiants de premier cycle, diplômés en médicine vétérinaire et anesthésistes pour l'évaluation de la douleur chez les chats et les chiens : étude préliminaire. Cette étude a évalué l'accord entre les étudiants de premier cycle, les étudiants diplômés en médicine vétérinaire et les anesthésiologistes vétérinaires pour l'évaluation de la douleur sur vidéo, à l'Université de Montréal. L'évaluation de la douleur chez les chiens et les chats était influencée par le sexe, l'expérience antérieure et le niveau de formation, malgré une population d'observateurs limitée.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Evaluation of a Jugular Venipuncture Alpaca Model to Teach the Technique of Blood Sampling in Adult Alpacas.

The effectiveness of teaching aids in veterinary medical education is not often assessed rigorously. The objective in the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a commercially available jugular venipuncture alpaca model as a complementary tool to teach veterinary students how to perform venipuncture in adult alpacas. We hypothesized that practicing on the model would allow veterinary students to draw blood in alpacas more rapidly with fewer attempts than students without previous practice on the model. Thirty-six third-year veterinary students were enrolled and randomly allocated to the model (group M; n=18) or the control group (group C; n=18). The venipuncture technique was taught to all students on day 0. Students in group M practiced on the model on day 2. On day 5, an evaluator blinded to group allocation evaluated the students' venipuncture skills during a practical examination using live alpacas. Success was defined as the aspiration of a 6-ml sample of blood. Measured outcomes included number of attempts required to achieve success (success score), total procedural time, and overall qualitative score. Success scores, total procedural time, and overall scores did not differ between groups. Use of restless alpacas reduced performance. The jugular venipuncture alpaca model failed to improve jugular venipuncture skills in this student population. Lack of movement represents a significant weakness of this training model.

[Efficacy of mental health prevention and promotion strategies in higher education]. / Efficacité des interventions en prévention et en promotion de la santé mentale dans les établissements d'enseignement postsecondaire.

Recent studies inform of increases in reported mental health problems in higher education students worldwide, with suicide and homicide being the most dramatic outcomes. Improving first-hand intervention and implementing mental health prevention and promotion strategies in colleges and universities are amongst the most commonly mentioned means of addressing these concerns. While institutions increasingly favor mental health promotion, most programs have not been properly evaluated and most strategies cannot be replicated. The article analyses results obtained from literature reviews and meta-analysis focusing on mental health prevention and promotion strategies targeting college and university students. Mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral and relaxation strategies, as well as social ability training, appeared to be the most effective if they were practiced under supervision. The implementation of supervised mental health prevention strategies within a setting-based systematic and multifactorial promotion frame could significantly decrease mental health problems in higher education students.

In vivo therapeutic efficacy and pharmacokinetics of colistin sulfate in an experimental model of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli infection in weaned pigs.

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC: F4) associated with post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) in pigs has developed resistance against several antimicrobial families, leading to increased use of colistin sulfate (CS) for the treatment of this disease. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of oral CS treatment in experimental PWD due to ETEC: F4 challenge and determine the effect of this challenge on CS intestinal absorption. In this study, 96 pigs were divided into two trials based on CS dose (100 000 or 50 000 IU/kg). Fecal shedding of ETEC: F4, total E. coli, and CS-resistant E. coli, diarrhea scores, and weight changes were evaluated. Colistin sulfate plasma concentrations were determined by HPLC-MS/MS. Regardless of the dose, CS treatment resulted in a reduction of fecal ETEC: F4 and total E. coli shedding, and in diarrhea scores but only during the treatment period. However, CS treatment resulted in a slight increase in fecal shedding of CS resistant E. coli and did not prevent weight loss in challenged pigs. In addition, challenge with ETEC: F4 resulted in an increase of CS intestinal absorption. Our study is among the first to demonstrate that under controlled conditions, CS was effective in reducing fecal shedding of ETEC: F4 and total E. coli in experimental PWD. However, CS treatment was associated with a slight selection pressure on E. coli and did not prevent pig weight loss. Further studies are needed in field conditions, to better characterize CS therapeutic regimen efficacy and bacterial resistance dissemination.

Volume and social context of physical activity in association with mental health, anxiety and depression among youth.

There is growing interest in physical activity (PA) to prevent mental disorders in youth. However, few studies examine the association between PA and mental health. Further, how PA volume and context relate to mental health and mental disorders remains unclear, especially among youth in transition to adulthood. This study examined the cross-sectional associations among PA volume and context, mental health, and symptoms of anxiety and depression in post-secondary students. A total of 1527 post-secondary students (97.4% were age 16-24years) recruited in a CEGEP in Quebec, Canada completed a self-report questionnaire during class-time in October 2013. Multivariate linear regression was used to model the associations between PA volume and context and mental health, anxiety and depression controlling for sex, age and perceived socioeconomic status. Volume of moderate-to-vigorous leisure time PA (MVPA) was positively associated with mental health (ß (95% CI)=0.072 (0.045, 0.099)) and inversely associated with symptoms of anxiety (-0.011 (-0.020, -0.001)) and depression (-0.010 (-0.017, -0.003)). Volume including all PA intensities was associated with mental health (0.052 (0.028, 0.076)). After controlling for PA volume, active youth involved in team sports had better mental health than those who engaged in PA individually. PA volume and the social context of PA are independently associated with mental health among youth. MVPA is inversely associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms.