Abaxis VetScan Research Articles

Physiological and Biochemical Blood Indicators of Boer X Saanen Crossbred Goats Raised in Binh Duong Province, Vietnam

This paper presents the results of a study on the physiological and biochemical blood indices of F1 (Boer x Saanen) crossbred goats raised in Binh Duong province, Vietnam. Blood samples from 160 goats were taken by venipuncture from each animal in the morning, data were collected by sex and two age groups (3-12 months and 12-24 months). Blood physiological indices were measured using a Hemascreen 18 hematology analyzer. Blood biochemical indices were measured using an Abaxis Vetscan 2 chemistry analyzer. The results showed that the WBC, Mono and Neut indices varied according to age and sex (P0.05). RBC, HGB, MCV, MCH had no statistically significant differences between ages and sexes (P>0.05). The average protein concentration was 64.82-81.85 g/L, with significant differences between the study groups (P0.05). Statistically significant differences in mean values between age groups were investigated in the following parameters: Glucose, creatinine, AST, ALP, K, Ca, P, Cl. This study provides data on physiological and biochemical blood indices of Hybrids goats F1 (Boer x Saanen) as a basis for periodic health diagnosis of goat herds, promptly detecting health abnormalities. The data obtained can be used as reference limits related to physiological changes in livestock due to disease, nutritional deficiencies or other health-affecting factors. This is also the premise for studies on large goat herds to build a database of physiological and biochemical blood indices of goat breeds raised in Vietnam.

Correlation of Silage Feeds to Blood Biochemical Parameters in Saanen Goats

This paper presents the results of monitoring blood biochemical parameters of Saanen goats when using some types of silage. The study was conducted on 40 Saanen goats 6-12 months old, with an average weight of 17.5 kg, raised at the Center for Livestock Biotechnology. The goats were completely randomized in blocks into 3 treatments (NT); NT1: pseudo-silage cashew nuts, NT2: silage cassava pulp and NT3: silage corn stalks and leaves and 1 control group (using standard feed at the center). Blood samples were taken by jugular vein puncture of each animal in the morning, before feeding on days 1, 45 and 90 of the experiment. Blood biochemical indices: Glucose, Protein, Albumin, Globulin, BUN, Creatinine, AST, ALT, ALP, electrolyte index (Na, K, Ca, P) were measured by Abaxis Vetscan 2 chemical analyzer. Biochemical parameters of the control group and the 3 treatments 1, 2, 3 on the 90th day were respectively Glucose was 4.56 ± 2.86; 4.59 ± 3.84; 4.38 ± 3.88; 4.42 ± 3.18 mmol/l; Protein was 76.83 ± 8.56; 77.56 ± 6.82; 77.36 ± 7.96; 78.35 ± 8.38 g/l. The results of the evaluation of blood biochemical parameters of Saanen goats were all at normal levels when using silage rations. There was no statistical difference between the experimental and control groups. The results confirmed that the use of supplementary silage in Saanen goat farming did not affect blood biochemical indices. These data are useful for further studies on other ruminants, suggesting the use of silage in goat farming from agricultural by-products.

PSVI-1 Elucidating the Effects of the CXCL12/CXCR4 Axis Through Hematological Changes in Sheep During Gestation

Abstract The placenta, an organ that develops during pregnancy, is essential for transporting nutrients and oxygen to the developing offspring. Formation of the placenta is characterized by many physiological and hematological changes necessary for a healthy gestation. Improper placentation causes placental insufficiency which increases fetal mortality and poor postnatal health and performance. Causes of placental insufficiency are poorly understood, however evidence indicates immune factors including the chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and its receptor (CXCR4) regulate several processes central to placentation and white blood cells (WBC) have essential roles by promoting trophoblast invasion and supporting artery remodeling. We previously demonstrated suppressing CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling at the fetal-maternal interface during implantation diminishes placental vascularization, reduces trophoblast invasion, and creates an excessively inflammatory placental environment. Building on these studies, we hypothesized the negative impacts early in gestation would result in compromised placental development and altered hematological parameters during gestation. Identifying key hematological changes or inflammatory markers in a complete blood count analysis during pregnancy might provide diagnostic clues to placental insufficiency at early stages of pregnancy. Our objective was to determine if disrupting the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis during implantation results in an altered hematological profile or serum progesterone (P4) concentrations. Using an in-vivo sheep model osmotic pumps were surgically installed to deliver treatments into the uterine lumen on day 12 of gestation. Pumps delivered either CXCR4 inhibitor (AMD3100) at (1X, 1.5X, or 3X dose), CXCL12 at (low or high dose), or PBS (control) into the uterus over the course of 14 days. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture daily from days 11 to 16 of gestation, every two days from days 18 to 30, and weekly from day 35 to 135 and analyzed within 2 h of collection for a complete blood count using the Abaxis VetScan HM5. Serum was also collected and P4 concentrations were quantified by radioimmunoassay. Manipulating the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis during early gestation did not affect (P = 0.98) systemic circulating progesterone values during days tested, but neutrophils, lymphocytes, WBCs, and platelets increased indicated systemic inflammation. Of the hematological parameters tested, WBC counts were increased (P < 0.05) in the 3X AMD3100 treatment group and neutrophils and lymphocytes tended (P < 0.1) to increase compared with control. Our results reveal that suppressing CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling during early gestation creates an inflammatory response reflected in circulation. A greater understanding of hematological changes and endometrial interactions involved in placentation in sheep is necessary to elucidate the causes of placental insufficiency and recurrent pregnancy loss. Future research will investigate if circulating markers indicative of placental dysfunction exist which may lead to methods to improve fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and fetal health.

Determination of Blood Biochemistry Reference Intervals in Eastern Collared Lizards (Crotaphytus collaris)

Abstract Eastern collared lizards (Crotaphytus collaris) are growing in popularity as exotic pets in the United States and worldwide. However, clinical biochemistry reference data to support interpretation of health and disease for this species remains lacking. This study evaluated 87 apparently healthy Eastern collared lizards (Crotaphtyus collaris). Blood samples were collected from the ventral coccygeal vein and assayed via Abaxis VetScan VS2 and Avian Reptile rotor. While lizard weight and snout-vent length (SVL) were normally distributed, most biochemical analytes, except albumin and total protein, were not. Many analytes were affected, albeit slightly, by lizard age, SVL, body condition score, gravidity and/or recent ovoposition, sex, health status, and color/locality. However, except for calcium, phosphorous, and albumin for gravid or immediately post oviposition females, biochemical values remained within the generated reference interval. Limitations of this study included that the VetScan VS2 avian / reptile profile plus rotor was unable to successfully provide values for bile acids for most of these apparently healthy lizards. When compared to biochemistry analyte values of lizards from the suborder Iguania from the western hemisphere, Eastern collared lizard biochemistries were similar for some analytes, but a relatively increased plasma glucose and uric acid occurs in this species which could affect the diagnosis of clinical disease or other health abnormalities.

Precision of the Abaxis VetScan VS2 for postmortem biochemical analysis of delphinid vitreous humor

AbstractBiochemical analysis of vitreous humor has several forensic applications, including toxicology, estimation of the postmortem interval, and as proxy for select antemortem serum analytes. Estimation of postmortem interval from vitreous humor analytes such as potassium has potential to be a valuable forensic tool for marine mammal strandings, as time of death is essential to provide spatial and temporal context for anthropogenic interactions. The Abaxis VetScan VS2 (VetScan) chemistry analyzer is inexpensive, compact, and requires low sample volume (100 μl), making it ideal for organizations with limited resources and limited samples. This pilot study compared accuracy of the Vetscan on delphinid serum/plasma (n = 7) to the Beckman Coulter AU480, validated the precision of the Vetscan for biochemical analysis of delphinid vitreous humor using the described sample processing protocol, and assessed analyte stability at room temperature in delphinid vitreous humor. Pooled samples (n = 12) of delphinid vitreous humor were serially analyzed and the between‐run and within‐run coefficient of variation of the VetScan was acceptable for most analytes tested but was not for creatinine, total bilirubin, amylase, and alanine aminotransferase. These results demonstrated the precision of the VetScan for the analysis of glucose, albumin, globulin, total protein, urea nitrogen, sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus in delphinid vitreous humor.

Comparison of three hematocrit measurement methods in the southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum).

BackgroundHematocrit (HCT) determination is an integral part of health and disease assessments in captive and wild white rhinoceroses. Several affordable automated hematology analyzers have been developed for in‐clinic and field use and have the advantage of being able to measure a large number of additional measurands. However, the accuracy of these analyzers for rhinoceros HCT measurements has not yet been investigated.ObjectivesWe aimed to compare the HCT results generated by the EPOC portable analyzer system and the Abaxis VetScan HM5 with the gold standard of a manual packed cell volume (PCV) measured using the microhematocrit method.MethodsHematocrits were measured with the EPOC and the Abaxis VetScan HM5 (bovine setting) and compared with the PCVs of 69 white rhinoceros whole blood samples. Results were compared using Bland–Altman difference plots and Passing‐Bablok regression analysis. A total allowable analytical error of 10% was set as the performance goal.ResultsA significant positive bias, with a mean of 7.7% for the EPOC and 17.9% for the Abaxis, was found compared with the manual PCV method.ConclusionsThe allowable error goal of 10% was not exceeded with the EPOC analyzer. Although not analytically equivalent to the gold standard, the EPOC results could therefore be used as approximations in critical situations where manual measurements cannot be performed. The Abaxis exceeded this allowable error and overestimated HCTs in rhinoceroses. Therefore, method‐specific reference intervals should be used.

Reference Intervals for Selected Hematology and Clinical Chemistry Measurands in Temminck's Pangolin (Smutsia temminckii)

Pangolins are the world's most trafficked non-human mammals. A significant number of Temminck's pangolins (Smutsia temminckii) are presented for veterinary care and rehabilitation in southern Africa. Little is known about the physiology and normal health of this species, making diagnosis and medical management difficult. This study aimed to establish reference intervals (RIs) for hematology and plasma clinical chemistry in the Temminck's pangolin. RIs were generated according to international guidelines using samples from 27 healthy free-living (n = 18) and rehabilitated (n = 9) pangolins. Hematology was performed using the Abaxis VetScan HM5 analyzer with manual differentials; clinical chemistry was performed using heparin plasma on the Abaxis VetScan VS2 and Cobas Integra 400 Plus analyzers. Hematology RIs were: RBC 3.88–8.31 × 1012/L, HGB 73–150 g/L, HCT 26–51%, MCV 59–72 fL, MCH 15.6–21.4 pg, MCHC 257–325 g/L, RDW 14.3–19.1%, WBC 1.80–10.71 × 109/L. Vetscan VS2 clinical chemistry RIs were: albumin 27–41 g/L, ALP 26–100 U/L, ALT 25–307 U/L, amylase 267–826 U/L, bilirubin 4–10 μmol/L, calcium 2.1–2.2 mmol/L, globulin 21–55 g/L, glucose 3.8–10.0 mmol/L, phosphate 1.3–2.6 mmol/L, potassium 3.6–5.9 mmol/L, sodium 132–140 mmol/L total protein 52–84 g/L, and urea 5.3–11.4 mmol/L. RIs for creatinine were not calculated as analytical imprecision exceeded analytical performance goals. Cobas Integra clinical chemistry RIs were: albumin 22–33 g/L, ALP 20–104 U/L, ALT 17–291 U/L, amylase 466–1,533 U/L, bilirubin 1–14 μmol/L, calcium 2.0–2.4 mmol/L, creatinine <58 μmol/L, globulin 23–49 g/L, glucose 3.6–10.1 mmol/L, phosphate 1.0–2.2 mmol/L, potassium 3.1–5.8 mmol/L, sodium 137–150 mmol/L, total protein 47–72 g/L, and urea 6.0–12.5 mmol/L. There was significant bias between the two chemistry analyzers for several measurands. Differences were found for some analytes between free-living and rehabilitated animals, probably reflecting differences in nutrition and hydration. These are the first RIs generated for Temminck's pangolin. These results will allow veterinarians to better determine pangolin health status, formulate optimal treatment plans and increase patient survival rates in this endangered species.

Abstract 679: In vivo synergy of 90Y-NM600 and Bempegaldesleukin improves anti-tumor efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in syngeneic murine cancer models

Abstract We have observed in preclinical studies that the delivery of low dose targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) therapy to sites of primary and metastatic cancer can improve the anti-tumor immune response to immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) with anti-CTLA4 or anti-PDL1. NM600, an alkylphosphocholine that can be radiolabeled with 90Y, is taken up and retained in most cancer cells following intravenous injection. Bempegaldesleukin (BEMPEG) is a first in class, CD122-preferential IL2 pathway agonist that can selectively stimulate an immune response. We hypothesized that combining low dose TRT with BEMPEG would increase immune activation to enhance the response to ICIs in immunologically “cold” murine cancer models. C57Bl/6 female mice were subcutaneously engrafted in the flank with the murine head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell line, MOC2. In vivo dosimetry performed using the Monte Carlo based RAPID platform following serial 86Y-NM600 PET/CT imaging demonstrated that 100 µCi of 90Y-NM600 would deliver ~8 Gy to the MOC2 tumor. Mice bearing MOC2 tumors (mean volume ~100 mm3) received combinations of 90Y-NM600 (100 µCi, day 1 IV), BEMPEG (16 µg, days 6, 15, and 24 IV), and anti-CTLA4 (200 µg, days 4, 7, and 10 IP) using a 2x2x2 study design. Tumor growth and survival were monitored. Blood was collected weekly and analyzed on the Abaxis VetScan HM5 to evaluate for toxicity. In a parallel 2x2x2 survival study, an orthotopic model generated by engrafting MOC2 tumors in the cheek was used, and mice were treated with combinations of BEMPEG, 90Y-NM600, and anti-PDL1 (200 µg, days 4, 7, and 10, IP). Mice were euthanized when &amp;gt;25% weight loss was observed. Similar experiments using 90Y-NM600 and BEMPEG were performed in additional syngeneic mouse cancer models including SCC7 (HNSCC), 4T1 (breast), LLC (lung), and Panc02 (pancreatic). In the immunologically “cold” MOC2 HNSCC model, 62.5% of mice treated with 90Y-NM600 (TRT), BEMPEG, and anti-CTLA4; and 44.4% of mice treated with 90Y-NM600, BEMPEG, and anti-PDL1 experienced complete tumor response with no observable primary or metastatic disease at day 60. In mice treated with 90Y-NM600 and BEMPEG, tumor regression followed by escape was seen without ICI. By day 60, no mice receiving single or dual treatment combinations exhibited a complete tumor response. Comprehensive whole blood analysis did not show any major hematologic toxicities. This treatment was explored in mice bearing SCC7, 4T1, Panc02, and LLC tumors, and similar trends were seen. Combination of 90Y-NM600, BEMPEG, and ICI displays robust anti-tumor activity that prevents metastatic disease progression and prolongs survival in spontaneously metastatic, immunologically “cold” tumor models. Clinical studies are warranted to test the safety and efficacy of this promising combined modality treatment regimen. Citation Format: Elizabeth G. Sumiec, Amber M. Bates, Reinier Hernandez, Joseph J. Grudzinski, Ian R. Marsh, Sarah E. Emma, Erin J. Nystuen, Justin C. Jagodinsky, Alexander A. Pieper, Gustavo A. Sosa, Bryan P. Bednarz, Ravi B. Patel, Jamey Weichert, Zachary S. Morris. In vivo synergy of 90Y-NM600 and Bempegaldesleukin improves anti-tumor efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in syngeneic murine cancer models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 679.

Electrolyte measurement in goats: Comparison of 2 blood gas analyzers and evaluation of the preanalytical blood sample preparation on measurement results.

1) To evaluate agreement for electrolyte measurements in goats between a handheld point-of-care analyzer (Abaxis VetScan i-STAT 1) (POC) and a benchtop blood gas analyzer (Opti CCA-TS2) (VBG) and 2) to evaluate effect of sample type on electrolytes values reported by both analyzers. In 21 hospitalized caprine patients and 9 healthy research goats, blood samples were collected into heparin-containing tubes (Sodium Heparin 33 IU/2 ml) (TUBE) and a heparinized syringe (Sodium Heparin 430 IU/ml) (SYRINGE). Samples were analyzed using a POC analyzer as well as VBG. Analyzer results were compared using Bland-Altman analysis and Pearson correlation. Comparison between samples was performed using repeated measures ANOVA. Between analyzers, TUBE yielded a bias (95 % limits of agreement) of 0.07 mmol/l (-4.37 to 4.52) for sodium, while SYRINGE yielded a bias of -6.13 mmol/l (-11.04 to -1.22). Comparison of potassium yielded a bias of 0.09 mmol/l (-0.5 to 0.67) and 0.08 mmol/l (-0.4 to 0.56) for TUBE and SYRINGE, respectively. Comparison of ionized calcium showed a bias of 0.05 mmol/l (0.01-0.1) and -0.02 mmol/l (-0.18 to 0.14) for TUBE and SYRINGE, respectively. Between sample types, the POC yielded a bias of 5.13 mmol/l (0.18-10.09) for sodium, 0.04 mmol/l (-0.12 to 0.2) for potassium, and 0.40 mmol/l (0.12-0.68) for ionized calcium. The POC exhibited clinically negligible bias for electrolyte analysis as compared to VBG. Ionized calcium concentrations were lower in self-prepared heparinized syringes than in heparin-containing tubes, suggesting an effect of heparin concentration on ionized calcium.

Research Note: Comparison of chicken blood chemistry and electrolyte parameters between the portable i-STAT1 clinical analyzer and VetScan VS2 serum biochemistry panel using Hy-Line commercial white-egg laying hens

The i-STAT1 clinical analyzer has become an increasingly popular tool in clinical production animal medicine as it can provide pen-side results in a cost effective and timely manner when compared to standard benchtop serum biochemistry blood gas and chemistry analyses. This study compares the results of the portable Abbott i-STAT1 analyzer and the Abaxis VetScan VS2 for glucose (Glu, mg/dL), ionized Ca (mmol/L), Na (mmol/L), and K (mmol/L) values. Three genetically distinct commercial varieties (CV) of Hy-Line white-egg laying hens are used in this study (Hy-Line W-36, Hy-Line W-80, and Hy-Line W-80+). Thirty blood samples (n = 10 per CV) were obtained in the production house from the brachial vein and concurrently analyzed by the i-STAT1 portable device. Serum from 22 of these same samples was analyzed via VetScan VS2, a benchtop serum clinical biochemistry analyzer, using VetScan Avian/Reptilian Profile Plus reagent rotors. A paired T-test was used to test for statistical differences in means between the 2 instruments for each of the parameters. Parameters with significant mean differences were then subject to correlation and regression analysis to further evaluate relationships between the results from the 2 methods. Significant differences between means were found for Glu, Na, and K levels. Ca levels were found to be not directly comparable by the 2 analysis instruments. This comparison elucidates the importance of clinical analyzer validations when applying different strategies of diagnostic medicine in poultry.

Biochemical reference intervals for homing pigeons in China

As indicators of diseases, blood biochemical values play a crucial role in clinical practice and assessments of animals’ health condition. The rising population of homing pigeons in China has prompted needs for reliable blood biochemical reference intervals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish biochemical reference intervals for homing pigeons. Heparinized whole blood samples obtained from 77 clinically healthy pigeons were analyzed by Zoetis Abaxis VetScan VS2 with VetScan Avian/Reptilian Profile Plus Rotor. Reference intervals for pigeons were computed by Excel with Reference Value Advisor V2.1. The statistical analysis performed by SPSS program revealed correlations between biochemical analytes. Effects of sex and age and validity of published reference intervals were also discussed. The present results serve as a useful guide to broaden the scope of pigeon breeding industry.

Renal hemodynamics and metabolism improve following a second Exertional Heat Stroke

Exertional Heat Stroke (EHS) occurs with rapid onset during strenuous exertion and results in hospitalization that is often associated with renal and hepatic injury. EHS may increase susceptibility to a subsequent EHS collapse if organ injury has not completely resolved prior to the second heat exposure. We investigated renal filtration and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OP) changes in radiotelemetered C57BL/6J mice that were forced to run in a heat chamber (37.5°C) until collapse (core temperature ~42.7°C). Mice were exposed to one (EHS) or two EHS events separated by 1 (EHS1), 3 (EHS3) or 7 (EHS7) days of recovery. Samples were collected 30 min, 3h, 1, or 7d after the first or second EHS exposure. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN; Abaxis VetScan analyzer) and a Mitochondrial Function Assay MitoPlate (Biolog) were used to assess renal filtration and OP changes, respectively. EHS1 mice experienced significantly greater thermal load (area under the heat curve) and dehydration compared to EHS, EHS3 and EHS7 mice (p&lt;0.001), but hypothermia depth during recovery was significant less pronounced than the other groups (~35°C vs. 32°C, respectively; p&lt;0.01). EHS1 mice showed 103% and 95% BUN decrease at 30 min and 3h of recovery compared with EHS, EHS3, and EHS7 groups, respectively (ANOVA, p&lt;0.001). Analysis of OP kinetics revealed that the following Citric Acid Cycle enzymes increased: Pyruvate Dehydrogenase (78%), Citrate Synthase (77%), Isocitrate Dehydrogenase (66%), Aconotase (59%) Alpha‐Ketoglutarate Dehydrogenase (50%), Succinate Dehydrogenase (18%), Fumurase (37%), and Malate Dehydrogenase (50%) 3h following EHS1, EHS3 or EHS7 (p&lt;0.05). All values were compared and normalized to naive control animals. The core temperature data indicate that EHS mice were partially acclimated prior to the second exposure on day 1 and this was sufficient to improve thermal tolerance (time in the heat before collapse) and reduce the severe sequelae during recovery. The minimal BUN changes EHS1 mice may be a consequence of increased glomerular filtration promoting normal renal hemodynamics. However, the kidney of EHS3 mice appeared to recover prior to the second exposure such that renal function was no longer adversely affected. The potential mechanism of these changes may be attributed to citric acid cycle kinetics of the renal mitochondria. These are the first data to indicate that partial heat acclimation in mice is sufficient to protect them against renal injury following a second heat exposure and this response has a 3d decay rate.Support or Funding InformationThe views expressed in this abstract are those of the authors and do not reflect the official policy of the Department of Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government. This abstract has been approved for public release with unlimited distribution.

Comparison of ionized calcium concentrations using an Abaxis Vetscan iSTAT with a Horiba LAQUAtwin calcium meter in dairy cows fed low, medium, and high calcium DCAD rations and challenged with EGTA

Prepartum feeding of a negative dietary cation-anion difference (-DCAD) ration has proved to be an effective method of preventing hypocalcemia. However, the optimum Ca concentration to feed with -DCAD rations has not been determined. We conducted an experiment to assess the implications of feeding a low, medium, and high concentration Ca -DCAD ration on the ability of a cow to respond to an induction of hypocalcemia.

Blood Biochemical Values of Wild Scarlet Macaw ( Ara macao macao) Nestlings and Adults.

Blood biochemical values are useful as indicators of disease in veterinary practice and for health assessments of free-ranging animal populations. We analyzed blood biochemical values for free-living nestling and adult scarlet macaws ( Ara macao macao) in southeastern Peru with an Abaxis VetScan VS2 portable analyzer with Avian/Reptilian Profile Plus rotors. The resulting data were used to create provisional age-independent reference intervals for this instrument for wild scarlet macaw nestlings, calculate blood biochemical ranges for this instrument for wild adults, and examine age-related trends in nestlings. Levels of 11 parameters were studied: albumin, aspartate aminotransferase, calcium, creatine kinase, globulin, glucose, phosphorus, potassium, total protein, sodium, and uric acid. Bile acid levels were generally below the instrument detection level and were not evaluated. Most values and their trends with bird age were comparable to those observed in captive large macaw nestlings. Albumin, aspartate aminotransferase, globulin, glucose, total protein, sodium, and uric acid levels increased with nestling age to adulthood. Creatine kinase, phosphorus, and potassium concentrations decreased with age to adulthood. Calcium concentrations did not change between nestlings and adults. These changes in values with age are broadly in agreement with values in other avian species and likely reflect physiologic and developmental changes as nestlings mature.

Evaluation of rapid diagnostic test kits for feline leukemia virus infection using samples from naturally infected cats.

ObjectivesFeline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a potentially life-threatening oncogenic retrovirus. The p27 viral core protein is produced by the virus in infected feline cells, is found in the cytoplasm in several blood cells and can be free in the serum and plasma. ELISA or particle-based immunoassay are commonly used to detect the presence of the p27 core protein in samples obtained from blood. The objective of this study was to compare the performance of several in-clinic tests: the SNAP Feline Triple Test (IDEXX Laboratories), the WITNESS FeLV-FIV Test (Zoetis) and the VetScan Feline FeLV/FIV Rapid Test (Abaxis).MethodsThe sample population (100 positive, 105 negative samples) consisted of serum and plasma samples submitted to IDEXX’s worldwide reference laboratory for feline retrovirus testing. Virus isolation and reverse transcriptase PCR results were not available and so samples were judged to be positive or negative based on the results of the ViraCHEK FeLV (Zoetis) microtiter plate assay.ResultsThe percentage of samples positive and negative for FeLV p27 antigen using the three in-clinic tests compared with the ViraCHEK method were as follows: IDEXX Feline Triple (positive 98.0%, negative 100%); Zoetis WITNESS (positive 79.0%, negative 97.1%); Abaxis VetScan (positive 73.0%, negative 97.1%).Conclusions and relevanceThe SNAP Feline Triple Test demonstrated a high level of agreement for FeLV-positive and FeLV-negative samples when assessed in this model. Results of FeLV assays can vary among tests.

Total nucleated cell and leukocyte differential counts in canine pleural and peritoneal fluid and equine synovial fluid samples: comparison of automated and manual methods.

Rapid and precise measurement of total and differential nucleated cell counts is a crucial diagnostic component of cavitary and synovial fluid analyses. The objectives of this study included (1) evaluation of reliability and precision of canine and equine fluid total nucleated cell count (TNCC) determined by the benchtop Abaxis VetScan HM5, in comparison with the automated reference instruments ADVIA 120 and the scil Vet abc, respectively, and (2) comparison of automated with manual canine differential nucleated cell counts. The TNCC and differential counts in canine pleural and peritoneal, and equine synovial fluids were determined on the Abaxis VetScan HM5 and compared with the ADVIA 120 and Vet abc analyzer, respectively. Statistical analyses included correlation, least squares fit linear regression, Passing-Bablok regression, and Bland-Altman difference plots. In addition, precision of the total cell count generated by the VetScan HM5 was determined. Agreement was excellent without significant constant or proportional bias for canine cavitary fluid TNCC. Automated and manual differential counts had R(2) <.5 for individual cell types (least squares fit linear regression). Equine synovial fluid TNCC agreed but with some bias due to the VetScan HM5 overestimating TNCC compared to the Vet abc. Intra-assay precision of the VetScan HM5 in 3 fluid samples was 2-31%. The Abaxis VetScan HM5 provided rapid, reliable TNCC for canine and equine fluid samples. The differential nucleated cell count should be verified microscopically as counts from the VetScan HM5 and also from the ADVIA 120 were often incorrect in canine fluid samples.

Impact of Delayed Analysis in Avian Blood Biochemical Values Measured With the Abaxis VetScan VS2.

For biochemical analysis with a point-of-care biochemical analyzer, standard procedure is to analyze the sample as rapidly as possible (<1 hour) after venipuncture to minimize any changes in analyte concentrations that might occur over time. However, under some circumstances, such as when collecting blood at remote field sites, a longer delay may be unavoidable. This study evaluates the effect of delayed analysis time under unrefrigerated conditions on avian (psittacine) biochemical analyte concentrations obtained with the VetScan VS2 using Avian/Reptilian Profile Plus rotors. Venipuncture was performed on a group of 36 psittacine birds as part of routine health checks in a research aviary (Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, USA). Whole blood was kept at room temperature and analyzed at 4 time intervals: <1, 3, 6, and 24 hours after venipuncture. At 3 hours or less after collection, most biochemical parameters changed by <2%, with the exception of phosphorus (decrease of about -9%). Major increases by 24 hours after collection were observed in phosphorus (+67%) and potassium (+103%) concentrations, whereas aspartate aminotransferase (AST), uric acid, glucose, and sodium concentrations also showed statistically significant changes. Our results suggest that accurate information from analyses using the VetScan VS2 may be obtained for up to 3 hours after venipuncture without refrigeration, but researchers and clinicians do need to exercise care when interpreting blood chemistry analyte concentrations obtained after multihour delays between venipuncture and sample analysis.

Hematologic, plasma biochemistry, and acid-base analysis of adult Negev Desert tortoises (Testudo werneri) in Israel.

The Negev Desert tortoise (Testudo werneri) is one of the smallest tortoise species in the Mediterranean region. This is a critically endangered species (CITES I) in its native habitat, which includes the Saharo-Arabian sands of northern Egypt, Sinai, and the Negev Desert in Israel. Great efforts have been invested in captive breeding and reintroduction of this tortoise to the wild. The purpose of this study was to collect blood samples from healthy Negev Desert tortoises kept in well-managed zoologic collections in order to describe hematologic, plasma biochemistry, and acid-base analytes for this species. Data of 36 different blood analytes were collected using the Abaxis Vetscan bench-top analyzer and i-STAT handheld analyzer, and a significant difference was observed between males and females in 13 of the measured analytes. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of blood analytes for the Negev Desert tortoise; however, the data do not fully meet the strict ASVCP guidelines required for reference range determination and thus can only provide a rough estimate for evaluating the health status of Negev Desert tortoises using similar testing methodology.

Pre- and Post-Surgical Evaluation of Bearded Dragons Undergoing Sterilization

Gonadectomy of pet lizards may be necessary to treat various medical conditions, and prophylactic surgery may prevent life-threatening reproductive-associated conditions. This study provides information relevant to the pre-surgical evaluation of bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps). Blood samples collected from seven male and seven female inland bearded dragons prior to elective gonadectomy surgery, and again 12 days following surgery, were analyzed using a point-of-care blood gas analyzer (iStat) and a semiportable chemistry analyzer (Abaxis VetScan) to obtain plasma biochemistry and electrolyte concentrations. Statistically significant differences were seen for packed cell volume and protein, calcium, and potassium concentrations when pre-surgical values were compared with post-surgical values. Four female lizards in the cohort died in the immediate post-operative period, and three of these animals had large, well-developed ovarian follicles. The ovaries of all surviving female lizards were characterized by small follicles consistent with inactivity. Minimal differences were seen in the biochemistry ranges for lizards that survived versus those that did not. None of the biochemical differences were of sufficient magnitude to be clinically important, but reproductive status of female bearded dragons should be considered prior to this invasive surgical procedure.

Delayed growth in a young fruit bat (Pteropus pumilus) due to nutritional hypovitaminosis C

AN eight-week-old, male, little golden-mantled flying fox, Pteropus pumilus , presented for lethargy of one week duration. This bat pup (59 g), rejected by his mother, was hand raised using...