Complex Feline Disease Mapping Using a Dense Genotyping Array.

The current feline genotyping array of 63 k single nucleotide polymorphisms has proven its utility for mapping within breeds, and its use has led to the identification of variants associated with Mendelian traits in purebred cats. However, compared to single gene disorders, association studies of complex diseases, especially with the inclusion of random bred cats with relatively low linkage disequilibrium, require a denser genotyping array and an increased sample size to provide statistically significant associations. Here, we undertook a multi-breed study of 1,122 cats, most of which were admitted and phenotyped for nine common complex feline diseases at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals.

Insights into sinus arrhythmia of the dog: Acetylcholine perfusion of canine right atrium results in beat-to-beat patterns that mimic sinus arrhythmia supporting exit block in the sinoatrial conduction pathways.

Sinus arrhythmia of the dog is unique because of the pronounced alternating beat-to-beat intervals. The clustering of these short (faster rates) and long (slower rates) intervals is not just influenced by autonomic input from breathing; sinus arrhythmia can persist in the panting or apneic dog. The multiplicity of central and peripheral influences on the sinus node complicates the unraveling of the mechanisms of sinus arrhythmia.

Comparison of the prevalence of Toxocara egg shedding by pet cats and dogs in the U.S.A., 2011-2014.

County based prevalence maps were produced using the annual data from the years 2011 through 2014 of the prevalence of Toxocara egg shedding in more than 500,000 pet cat and 2.5 million pet dog fecal samples submitted to centralized testing laboratories. Fecal examination results were obtained at these centers through examination of the samples by centrifugal floatation and microscopy, and were previously reported as annual data on the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) website.

Ranolazine effectively suppresses atrial fibrillation in the setting of heart failure.

Background: There is a critical need for safer and more effective pharmacological management of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the setting of heart failure (HF).

Methods And Results: This study investigates the electrophysiological, antiarrhythmic, and proarrhythmic effects of a clinically relevant concentration of ranolazine (5 μmol/L) in coronary-perfused right atrial and left ventricular preparations isolated from the hearts of HF dogs. HF was induced by ventricular tachypacing (2-6 weeks at 200-240 beats per minute; n=17).