@article{dannemiller_lynch_christiansen_harms_2024, title={An 18-μm microaggregate blood filter does not cause hemolysis during in vitro whole blood transfusions in sea turtles}, volume={85}, ISSN={["1943-5681"]}, DOI={10.2460/ajvr.23.12.0269}, abstractNote={Abstract OBJECTIVE Determine the hemolytic effect of an 18-µm microaggregate blood filter during in vitro sea turtle whole blood transfusions as well as describe the average diameter of leatherback ( Dermochelys coriacea ) and Kemp’s ridley sea turtle ( Lepidochelys kempii ) RBCs. ANIMALS 5 green ( Chelonia mydas ), 5 loggerhead ( Caretta carett a), and 5 Kemp’s ridley sea turtles (total n = 15). METHODS Heparinized sea turtle blood was infused at 60 mL/h through a microbore extension set without and then with a postsyringe, inline 18-µm microaggregate blood filter. Pre- and postfiltration PCV, Hct, total solids, sodium, chloride, potassium, glucose, and free plasma hemoglobin concentrations were measured. With the use of light microscopy and archived blood smears, the maximum and minimum diameter of 20 RBCs from each of the 5 leatherback and 5 Kemp’s ridley sea turtles were measured with a calibrated ocular micrometer using 400X magnification. RESULTS There were no significant differences between pre- and postfiltration samples for Hct, total solids, sodium, chloride, potassium, glucose, and free plasma hemoglobin concentrations; however, there was a significant median postfiltration decrease in PCV of approximately 4%, representing a 13% decrease of the total RBCs transfused. Average maximum diameters for leatherback and Kemp’s ridley sea turtle RBCs were 19.7 and 16.1 µm, respectively. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Although the 18-µm microaggregate blood filter does not hemolyze transfused sea turtle RBCs and is likely safe for in vivo blood transfusions, the filter’s pores may retain a small proportion of infused RBCs given their diameter.}, number={5}, journal={AMERICAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY RESEARCH}, author={Dannemiller, Nicholas G. and Lynch, Alex M. and Christiansen, Emily F. and Harms, Craig A.}, year={2024}, month={May} }
 @article{bonadie_lynch_ruterbories_christiansen_harms_2024, title={DEVELOPING A THROMBOELASTOGRAPHY ASSAY IN ELASMOBRANCHS}, volume={55}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2023-0061}, abstractNote={Thromboelastography (TEG) is a hemostatic assay evaluating clot initiation time, kinetics, strength, and extent of fibrinolysis. Hemostatic assays in nonmammalian species have been less extensively studied because of lack of taxon-specific reagents and unique physiology. Hemostatic or hemorrhagic disease has been described postmortem in elasmobranchs, but antemortem detection of coagulopathies is limited in this taxon. The study aimed to establish an elasmobranch TEG protocol to improve hemostatic evaluation and facilitate advanced treatment options for animals under human care. Multiple clotting initiators were assessed for efficacy with frozen-thawed citrated plasma, fresh citrated plasma, and fresh whole citrated blood: RapidTEGTM, citrated kaolin, Reptilase®, and species brain-derived thromboplastin prepared by two different methods. Initial evaluation found plasma samples clot inconsistently, but TEG analyses using fresh whole blood consistently led to measurable TEG reactions using multiple clotting initiators. The most reliable elasmobranch TEG results were observed using citrated fresh whole blood and the RapidTEG clot initiation reagent.}, number={2}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Bonadie, Kayla L. and Lynch, Alex M. and Ruterbories, Laura K. and Christiansen, Emily F. and Harms, Craig A.}, year={2024}, month={Jun}, pages={404–411} }
 @article{dannemiller_watson_christiansen_westmoreland_2024, title={Traumatic telson avulsion and attempted external stabilization in Atlantic horseshoe crabs (<i>Limulus polyphemus</i>)}, ISSN={["1098-2361"]}, DOI={10.1002/zoo.21818}, abstractNote={AbstractAtlantic horseshoe crabs (Limulus polyphemus) are prevalent in public aquarium touch pools. Despite their popularity, the literature concerning medical management under managed care is sparse. Noninfectious conditions include trauma to the exoskeleton and compound eyes; however, injury to the soft tissue connecting the telson and opisthosoma has not been previously reported. This report describes telson avulsion in three Atlantic horseshoe crabs at a public aquarium and attempted external stabilization with a vascular silicone tie in two of three affected animals. The horseshoe crab that received no veterinary intervention suffered a complete telson amputation 1 month after the initial injury. Although the two other horseshoe crabs did well postoperatively, and external stabilization prevented further avulsion or amputation, they still could not right themselves if flipped into dorsal recumbency. All three horseshoe crabs were ultimately euthanized due to animal welfare concerns. To avoid potentially serious telson ligament injury, horseshoe crabs should never be picked up by the telson. The authors recommend that telson ligament injuries be addressed promptly, any inciting cause be mitigated, and external stabilization be considered earlier.}, journal={ZOO BIOLOGY}, author={Dannemiller, Nicholas G. and Watson, Kaitlen M. and Christiansen, Emily F. and Westmoreland, Lori S.}, year={2024}, month={Jan} }
 @article{dannemiller_cray_westmoreland_christiansen_2023, title={Diagnostic agreement between three point-of-care glucose and β-hydroxybutyrate meters and reference laboratory methods in stingrays}, volume={10}, ISSN={["2297-1769"]}, DOI={10.3389/fvets.2023.1254340}, abstractNote={Point-of-care (POC) glucose and β-hydroxybutyrate (β-HB) meters can potentially provide rapid insight into an elasmobranch’s metabolic state in clinical and field research settings. This study evaluated the diagnostic agreement of three commercial POC meters against reference laboratory methods for glucose and β-HB concentrations in stingrays. Blood was collected during anesthetized exams from 28 stingrays representing four species: cownose rays (Rhinoptera bonasus), Atlantic stingrays (Hypanus sabina), southern stingrays (Hypanus americanus), and yellow stingrays (Urobatis jamaicensis). Glucose and β-HB concentrations were measured with each POC meter using whole blood and plasma; in parallel, plasma glucose and β-HB concentrations were measured via reference laboratory methods. Agreement between POC meters and reference laboratory methods was assessed using Bland–Altman methods, Passing-Bablok regression, observed total error, percent relative error, and linear mixed effect models. Plasma glucose and β-HB concentrations determined by reference laboratory methods ranged from <20–63 mg/dL to 0.05–5.38 mmol/L, respectively. One human POC meter—the Precision Xtra—showed the greatest agreement with reference laboratory methods when measuring glucose with whole blood [mean bias and 95% CI: 0 (−3–4) mg/dL] and β-HB with plasma [mean bias and 95% CI: 0.1 (−0.04–0.2) mmol/L]. Stingray sex, weight, buffy coat, and packed cell volume did not significantly affect the agreement between POC meters and reference laboratory methods. Across all three POC meters, mean bias and imprecision for plasma β-HB concentrations were relatively small (0–0.1 mmol/L and 0%, respectively). Utilizing POC meters to measure glucose and β-HB in stingrays may be viable when reference methods are unavailable.}, journal={FRONTIERS IN VETERINARY SCIENCE}, author={Dannemiller, Nicholas G. and Cray, Carolyn and Westmoreland, Lori S. and Christiansen, Emily F.}, year={2023}, month={Dec} }
 @article{heniff_chen_christiansen_harms_law_legner_linder_2022, title={Cutaneous epitheliotropic lymphosarcoma in a captive white catfish (Ameiurus catus Linnaeus)}, volume={4}, ISSN={["1365-2761"]}, url={https://doi.org/10.1111/jfd.13625}, DOI={10.1111/jfd.13625}, abstractNote={AbstractA wild caught white catfish (Ameiurus catus Linnaeus) developed multiple cutaneous masses. Cytology revealed neoplastic lymphocytes and microscopy confirmed dermal infiltration with epitheliotropism in the epidermis, oral mucosa, and cornea, without internal organ involvement. Transmission electron microscopy did not identify viral particles. Histopathology supported cutaneous epitheliotropic lymphosarcoma, a condition most commonly reported in mammals. This is the first reported case of cutaneous epitheliotropic lymphosarcoma in an ictalurid and one of the few published cases of this condition in any fish species.}, journal={JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES}, author={Heniff, Ashlyn C. and Chen, Laura R. and Christiansen, Emily F. and Harms, Craig A. and Law, Jerry M. and Legner, Christian and Linder, Keith E.}, year={2022}, month={Apr} }
 @article{carlson_wcisel_ackerman_romanet_christiansen_niemuth_williams_breen_stoskopf_dornburg_et al._2022, title={Transcriptome annotation reveals minimal immunogenetic diversity among Wyoming toads, Anaxyrus baxteri}, volume={4}, ISSN={["1572-9737"]}, url={https://doi.org/10.1007/s10592-022-01444-8}, DOI={10.1007/s10592-022-01444-8}, abstractNote={Briefly considered extinct in the wild, the future of the Wyoming toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) continues to rely on captive breeding to supplement the wild population. Given its small natural geographic range and history of rapid population decline at least partly due to fungal disease, investigation of the diversity of key receptor families involved in the host immune response represents an important conservation need. Population decline may have reduced immunogenetic diversity sufficiently to increase the vulnerability of the species to infectious diseases. Here we use comparative transcriptomics to examine the diversity of toll-like receptors and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) sequences across three individual Wyoming toads. We find reduced diversity at MHC genes compared to bufonid species with a similar history of bottleneck events. Our data provide a foundation for future studies that seek to evaluate the genetic diversity of Wyoming toads, identify biomarkers for infectious disease outcomes, and guide breeding strategies to increase genomic variability and wild release successes.}, journal={CONSERVATION GENETICS}, author={Carlson, Kara B. and Wcisel, Dustin J. and Ackerman, Hayley D. and Romanet, Jessica and Christiansen, Emily F. and Niemuth, Jennifer N. and Williams, Christina and Breen, Matthew and Stoskopf, Michael K. and Dornburg, Alex and et al.}, year={2022}, month={Apr} }
 @article{harms_ruterbories_stacy_christiansen_papich_lynch_barratclough_serrano_2021, title={SAFETY OF MULTIPLE-DOSE INTRAMUSCULAR KETOPROFEN TREATMENT IN LOGGERHEAD TURTLES (CARETTA CARETTA)}, volume={52}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2020-0159}, abstractNote={Abstract: Sea turtles are frequently presented for rehabilitation with injuries for which analgesic treatment is warranted. Ketoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used in clinical veterinary medicine for musculoskeletal pain relief. Pharmacokinetics of 2 mg/kg IM have been studied in loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) as a single and a repeated dose q24hr for 3 days. Safety of longer term administration has not been performed, however, and NSAID use carries a risk of potential complications, including gastrointestinal ulceration, kidney damage, and bleeding. The objective of the current study was to determine the effects of a 5-day course of ketoprofen on thromboelastography (TEG) and hematological (including thrombocytes) and plasma biochemical analytes in loggerheads. A secondary objective was to determine 24-hr trough concentrations of ketoprofen after 5 days of treatment. Eight loggerheads were treated with ketoprofen 2 mg/kg IM q24hr for 5 days, and TEG, hematology, and plasma biochemistry panels were performed before and at the conclusion of treatment. Eight controls were treated with an equivalent volume of saline intramuscularly. Virtually no changes were detected before and after treatment or between treatment and control groups in any of the 24 endpoints evaluated, and marginal differences were not considered clinically relevant. Plasma ketoprofen concentrations after 5 days of treatment indicated no accumulation over that duration. Ketoprofen at 2 mg/kg IM q24hr for up to 5 days in loggerheads appears safe with respect to blood clotting and blood data, although other potential effects were not evaluated.}, number={1}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Harms, Craig A. and Ruterbories, Laura K. and Stacy, Nicole I and Christiansen, Emily F. and Papich, Mark G. and Lynch, Alex M. and Barratclough, Ashley and Serrano, Maria E.}, year={2021}, month={Mar}, pages={126–132} }
 @article{page-karjian_lo_ritchie_harms_rotstein_han_hassan_lehner_buchweitz_thayer_et al._2020, title={Anthropogenic Contaminants and Histopathological Findings in Stranded Cetaceans in the Southeastern United States, 2012-2018}, volume={7}, ISSN={["2296-7745"]}, DOI={10.3389/fmars.2020.00630}, abstractNote={Anthropogenic contaminants in the marine environment often biodegrade slowly, bioaccumulate in organisms, and can have deleterious effects on wildlife immunity, health, reproduction, and development. In this study, we evaluated tissue toxicant concentrations and pathology data from 83 odontocetes that stranded in the southeastern United States during 2012–2018. Mass spectrometry was used to analyze blubber samples for five organic toxicants (atrazine, bisphenol-A, diethyl phthalates, nonylphenol monoethoxylate [NPE], triclosan), and liver samples were analyzed for five non-essential elements (arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury, thallium), six essential elements (cobalt, copper, manganese, iron, selenium, zinc) and one toxicant mixture class (Aroclor1268). Resultant data considerably improve upon the existing knowledge base regarding toxicant concentrations in stranded odontocetes. Toxicant and element concentrations varied based on animal demographic factors including species, sex, age, and location. Samples from bottlenose dolphins had significantly higher average concentrations of lead, manganese, mercury, selenium, thallium, and zinc, and lower average concentrations of NPE, arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, and iron than samples from pygmy sperm whales. In adult female bottlenose dolphins, average arsenic concentrations were significantly higher and iron concentrations were significantly lower than in adult males. Adult bottlenose dolphins had significantly higher average concentrations of lead, mercury, and selenium, and significantly lower average manganese concentrations compared to juveniles. Dolphins that stranded in Florida had significantly higher average concentrations of lead, mercury, and selenium, and lower concentrations of iron than dolphins that stranded in North Carolina. Histopathological data are presented for 72 animals, including microscopic evidence of Campula spp. and Sarcocystis spp. infections, and results of Morbillivirus and Brucella spp. molecular diagnostic testing. Sublethal cellular changes related to toxicant exposure in free-ranging odontocetes may lead to health declines and, in combination with other factors, may contribute to stranding.}, journal={FRONTIERS IN MARINE SCIENCE}, author={Page-Karjian, Annie and Lo, Catherine F. and Ritchie, Branson and Harms, Craig A. and Rotstein, David S. and Han, Sushan and Hassan, Sayed M. and Lehner, Andreas F. and Buchweitz, John P. and Thayer, Victoria G. and et al.}, year={2020}, month={Aug} }
 @article{scott_law_christiansen_lewbart_harms_2020, title={EVALUATION OF LOCALIZED INFLAMMATORY REACTIONS SECONDARY TO INTRAMUSCULAR INJECTIONS OF ENROFLOXACIN IN STRIPED BASS (MORONE SAXATILIS)}, volume={51}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2019-0096}, abstractNote={Abstract: Enrofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone widely used in animals including fish. Intramuscular (IM) injection of enrofloxacin is a feasible and efficacious option for drug delivery. In many species IM injection has been associated with injection site reactions and increases in serum muscle enzymes. Injection site reactions have not been well characterized in fish. Three groups of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) received an IM injection of enrofloxacin 2.27% in the right epaxial musculature 24, 48, or 96 hr prior to evaluation. Mean dose was 7.69 mg/ kg (6.14–9.69 mg/kg). The 24- and 48-hr groups received an injection of equal-volume 0.9% saline in the left epaxial musculature. A corresponding noninjected tissue sample was designated in the left epaxial musculature from each fish of the 96-hr group. Fish were euthanized and injection sites and noninjection control sites were evaluated grossly and histologically. Grades 1–4 were assigned to samples, with grade 1 corresponding to normal tissue and grades 2, 3, and 4 corresponding to mild, moderate, and severe inflammation and/or necrosis respectively. Externally, all control and injection sites appeared visually unremarkable. On cut surface, epaxial muscle of the enrofloxacin-injected tissue appeared moderately to severely hemorrhagic compared to saline and noninjected tissue, which was normal or mildly hemorrhagic. Histologically, eight of eight noninjected tissues were grade 1. For saline-injected tissues, 14 of 16 tissues were grade 2 and 2 samples were grade 3 when 24- and 48-hr groups were combined. For enrofloxacin-injected tissues, 8 of the 8 24-hr samples were grade 3 and 16 of the 16 48- and 96-hr samples were grade 4. These data show that IM injection of enrofloxacin 2.27% is associated with severe hemorrhage, necrosis, and inflammation in striped bass, and may negatively affect animal welfare.}, number={1}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Scott, Gregory and Law, Mac and Christiansen, Emily F. and Lewbart, Gregory A. and Harms, Craig A.}, year={2020}, month={Mar}, pages={46–52} }
 @article{barratclough_tuxbury_hanel_stacy_ruterbories_christiansen_harms_2019, title={Baseline plasma thromboelastography in Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii), green (Chelonia mydas) and loggerhead (Caretta caretta) sea turtles and its use to diagnose coagulopathies in cold-stunned Kemp’s ridley and green sea turtles}, volume={50}, ISSN={1042-7260}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1638/2018-0142}, DOI={10.1638/2018-0142}, abstractNote={Abstract 
 Cold-stunning in sea turtles is a frequent natural cause of mortality and is defined as a hypothermic state due to exposure to water temperatures <12°C. Derangements of biochemistry and hematology data by cold stunning have been well documented, although the effects on coagulation have not yet been investigated. The objectives of this study were to characterize the hemostatic state of non–cold-stunned sea turtles and to compare cold-stunned sea turtles at admission and after successful rehabilitation via a sea turtle–specific thromboelastography (TEG) protocol. TEG enables evaluation of the entire coagulation process, and the methodology has recently been established in sea turtles. Initially, 30 wild and apparently healthy sea turtles were sampled as controls: loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), n =17; Kemp's ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys kempii), n = 8; and green turtles (Chelonia mydas), n = 5. In addition, paired TEG samples were performed on 32 Ch. mydas and 14 L. kempii at admission and prerelease after successful rehabilitation from cold stunning. Statistically significant differences in reaction time, kinetics, angle, and maximum amplitude parameters in L. kempii and Ch. mydas species demonstrated that the time taken for blood clot formation was prolonged and the strength of the clot formed was reduced by cold stunning. These findings indicate that cold stunning may cause disorders in hemostasis that can contribute to the severity of the condition. Early diagnosis of coagulopathies in the clinical assessment of a cold-stunned sea turtle may influence the treatment approach and clinical outcome of the case.}, number={1}, journal={Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine}, publisher={American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, author={Barratclough, A. and Tuxbury, K. and Hanel, R. and Stacy, N.I. and Ruterbories, L. and Christiansen, E. and Harms, C.A.}, year={2019}, month={Apr}, pages={62} }
 @article{harms_mcclellan-green_godfrey_christiansen_broadhurst_godard-codding_2019, title={Crude Oil and Dispersant Cause Acute Clinicopathological Abnormalities in Hatchling Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta)}, volume={6}, ISSN={["2297-1769"]}, DOI={10.3389/fvets.2019.00344}, abstractNote={Following the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon MC252 oil rig in 2010, 319 live sea turtles exposed to crude oil and oil-dispersant (Corexit) combinations were admitted to rehabilitation centers for decontamination and treatment. Treatment of oiled sea turtles was guided by expected physiological and pathological effects of crude oil exposure extrapolated from studies in other species and from a single loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) study. While invaluable starting points, inherent limitations to extrapolation, and small sample size of the experimental exposure study, reduce their utility for clinical guidance and for assessing oil spill impacts. Effects of dispersants were not included in the previous experimental exposure study, and cannot be effectively isolated in the analysis of field data from actual spills. A terminal study of pivotal temperature of sex determination using eggs salvaged from doomed loggerhead nests provided an opportunity for an ancillary exposure study to investigate the acute effects of crude oil, dispersant, and a crude oil/dispersant combination in sea turtle hatchlings. Eggs were incubated at 27.2–30.8°C, and hatchlings were randomly assigned to control, oil, dispersant, and combined oil/dispersant exposures for 1 or 4 days. Contaminant exposures were started after a 3 day post-hatching period simulating nest emergence. Turtles were placed in individual glass bowls containing aged seawater and exposed to oil (Gulf Coast—Mixed Crude Oil Sweet, CAS #8002-05-9, 0.833 mL/L) and/or dispersant (Corexit 9500A, 0.083 mL/L), replicating concentrations encountered during oil spills and subsequent response. Statistically significant differences between treatments and non-exposed controls were detected for PCV, AST, uric acid, glucose, calcium, phosphorus, total protein, albumin, globulin, potassium, and sodium. The principal dyscrasias reflected acute osmolar, electrolyte and hydration challenges that were more numerous and greater in combined oil/dispersant exposures at 4 days. Clinicopathological findings were supported by a failure to gain weight (associated with normal hatchling hydration in seawater) in dispersant and combination exposed hatchlings. These findings can help guide clinical response for sea turtles exposed to crude oil and crude oil/dispersant combinations, and indicate potential impacts on wildlife to consider when deploying dispersants in an oil spill response.}, journal={FRONTIERS IN VETERINARY SCIENCE}, author={Harms, Craig A. and McClellan-Green, Patricia and Godfrey, Matthew H. and Christiansen, Emily F. and Broadhurst, Heather J. and Godard-Codding, Celine A. J.}, year={2019}, month={Oct} }
 @article{petritz_westermeyer_whitehead_christiansen_lohmann_lohmann_lewbart_2020, title={Effective mydriasis in juvenile loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) following topical administration of rocuronium bromide and 10% phenylephrine}, volume={23}, ISSN={["1463-5224"]}, DOI={10.1111/vop.12681}, abstractNote={AbstractObjectiveTo determine the combined mydriatic effects of topical rocuronium bromide and phenylephrine in juvenile loggerhead turtles and identify any adverse effects associated with treatment.Animals studiedEleven juvenile loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta).ProceduresFour 20 μL drops of rocuronium bromide and four 20 μL drops of 10% phenylephrine were placed into the right eye at 2‐minute intervals of 5 turtles, while the same volume of saline was administered to six control turtles. A pupilometer recorded pupil measurements at rest and following a light stimulus at 2, 15, 30, 60, 120, 150, 180, 210, 240, 300, and 360 minutes following delivery of the final drop to the ocular surface. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was also measured at similar time points.ResultsThe nonilluminated and light‐stimulated pupillary diameter of the right eye of treated turtles was significantly greater than baseline starting at 120 and 15 minutes, respectively. Light‐stimulated pupillary diameter of treated eyes was greater than that of control eyes from time 15 minutes until the end of the treatment period. No systemic side effects were noted over a 24 hours period following treatment and all turtles showed normal behavior and appetite. No mydriasis was noted in either eye at 24 hours and the anterior segment was normal.ConclusionsA combination of topical ophthalmic rocuronium bromide and 10% phenylephrine is safe and effective for mydriasis in juvenile loggerhead turtles.}, number={1}, journal={VETERINARY OPHTHALMOLOGY}, author={Petritz, Olivia A. and Westermeyer, Hans D. and Whitehead, Michelle C. and Christiansen, Emily F. and Lohmann, Kenneth J. and Lohmann, Catherine M. F. and Lewbart, Gregory A.}, year={2020}, month={Jan}, pages={37–43} }
 @article{westmoreland_archibald_christiansen_broadhurst_stoskopf_2019, title={THE MESOPTERYGIAL VEIN: A RELIABLE VENIPUNCTURE SITE FOR INTRAVASCULAR ACCESS IN BATOIDS}, volume={50}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2018-0137}, abstractNote={Intravascular access in batoid species is commonly achieved using the ventral coccygeal or radial wing vessels. However, these approaches can be difficult because of the presence of cartilage, lack of specific landmarks, species variation, and small vessel size in many species. This study used postmortem contrast radiography and gross dissection to develop landmarks for a new, dependable vascular access in three Myliobatiform species commonly maintained in captivity: Atlantic stingray (Hypanus sabinus), cownose ray (Rhinoptera bonasus), and smooth butterfly ray (Gymnura micrura). The mesopterygial vein provides quick vascular access and is suitable for administration of large fluid volumes and intravascular drugs. It is located immediately ventrolateral to the metapterygium cartilage, which sits adjacent to the coelomic cavity and supports the caudal half of the pectoral fin. Using the pectoral girdle and cranial third of the metapterygium cartilage as landmarks, vascular access can be achieved by directing a needle medially at approximately a 30° (adult cownose rays) or 45° angle (Atlantic stingrays, juvenile cownose rays, smooth butterfly rays) toward the metapterygium cartilage. Differences in the degree of needle direction are due to species and age-specific shapes of the metapterygium cartilage. The mesopterygial vein is an alternate site of quick and reliable venous access in batoid species.}, number={2}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Westmoreland, Lori S. H. and Archibald, Kate E. and Christiansen, Emily F. and Broadhurst, Heather J. and Stoskopf, Michael K.}, year={2019}, month={Jun}, pages={369–374} }
 @article{phillips_christiansen_stoskopf_broadhurst_george_harms_2016, title={Comparison of hematology, plasma biochemistry, and blood gas variables between 2 venipuncture sites in Southern Stingrays (Dasyatis americana)}, volume={45}, DOI={10.1111/vcp.12424}, abstractNote={BackgroundThe Southern Stingray (Dasyatis americana) is a batoid elasmobranch frequently exhibited in zoological institutions. Blood is commonly collected from the caudal hemal arch at the tail base in stingrays for the purpose of health assessment and clinical pathology tests. An alternative site that allows a dorsal or ventral approach without necessitating puncture of a cartilaginous structure has been identified between the cartilaginous pectoral fin rays (ceratotrichia).ObjectivesThe purpose of the study was to compare CBC, plasma biochemistry analytes, and blood gas variables between blood samples collected from the caudal and pectoral fin vasculature sites of the Southern Stingray.MethodsFifteen captive Southern Stingrays (10 females, 5 males) from 4 zoo and aquarium facilities were sampled. Lithium heparinized blood samples were collected from the caudal and pectoral venipuncture sites of each animal. Values from estimated total and differential leukocyte counts, plasma biochemistry analytes, and blood gas variables were compared.ResultsThere were no statistically significant differences between venipuncture sites for the measured analytes except for CK activity, which was statistically significantly higher in the pectoral site samples. Levels of agreement between sites were good or moderate for 22 analytes and poor for ALT, AST, CK, pO2, lactate, monocytes, and eosinophils.ConclusionsThe good agreement between sampling sites for the majority of the measured analytes and the lack of differences that would alter clinical interpretation support the use of the pectoral site as an alternative to the traditional caudal fin venipuncture site in Southern Stingrays.}, number={4}, journal={Veterinary Clinical Pathology}, author={Phillips, B. E. and Christiansen, E. F. and Stoskopf, M. K. and Broadhurst, H. and George, R. and Harms, Craig}, year={2016}, pages={627–633} }
 @article{hurley-sanders_harms_christiansen_clarke_law_2015, title={Exuberant granulation tissue response associated with Neobenedenia sp. (Monogenea: Capsalidae) infestation in two cobia, Rachycentron canadum (Linnaeus)}, volume={39}, ISSN={0140-7775}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/jfd.12360}, DOI={10.1111/jfd.12360}, abstractNote={AbstractMonogenean parasite infestations are common in captive marine teleosts, and are generally found on the skin and gills. This report describes an unusual pathological presentation of exuberant granulation tissue of the gills, suspected to be related to Neobenedenia infestation in two cobia housed together at a North Carolina aquarium.}, number={3}, journal={Journal of Fish Diseases}, publisher={Wiley}, author={Hurley-Sanders, J and Harms, C and Christiansen, E and Clarke, E, III and Law, J}, year={2015}, month={Apr}, pages={277–283} }
 @article{christiansen_himsworth_hill_haulena_2015, title={INFECTION OF A GOELDI'S MONKEY (CALLIMICO GOELDII) WITH A EUROPEAN STRAIN OF ECHINOCOCCUS MULTILOCULARIS IN A CANADIAN INSTITUTION}, volume={46}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2014-0123r1.1}, abstractNote={A 12-yr-old female Goeldi's monkey (Callimico goeldii) in British Columbia, Canada was diagnosed with alveolar echinococcosis (AE) on postmortem examination. Echinococcus multilocularis has been identified in several species of nonhuman primates, most frequently Old World primates, in zoos and research facilities in Europe and Asia. The strain affecting this monkey was identified as a European haplotype, indistinguishable from E. multilocularis recently identified in several canids in British Columbia. The animal is suspected to have been exposed while living in a zoological institution in Alberta, where E. multilocularis has also been reported in urban coyotes. Alveolar echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease of increasing concern in the United States and Canada, and this disease should be considered on the differential list of any nonhuman primate exhibiting signs of abdominal pain or distension, along with diagnostic imaging consistent with cystic structures of the liver or other organs.}, number={2}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Christiansen, Emily F. and Himsworth, Chelsea G. and Hill, Janet E. and Haulena, Martin}, year={2015}, month={Jun}, pages={378–381} }
 @article{stacy_innis_daoust_wyneken_miller_harris_james_christiansen_foley_2015, title={Solitary Large Intestinal Diverticulitis in Leatherback Turtles (Dermochelys coriacea)}, volume={52}, ISSN={["1544-2217"]}, DOI={10.1177/0300985814549211}, abstractNote={ Leatherback sea turtles are globally distributed and endangered throughout their range. There are limited data available on disease in this species. Initial observations of solitary large intestinal diverticulitis in multiple leatherbacks led to a multi-institutional review of cases. Of 31 subadult and adult turtles for which complete records were available, all had a single exudate-filled diverticulum, as large as 9.0 cm in diameter, arising from the large intestine immediately distal to the ileocecal junction. All lesions were chronic and characterized by ongoing inflammation, numerous intralesional bacteria, marked attenuation of the muscularis, ulceration, and secondary mucosal changes. In three cases, Morganella morganii was isolated from lesions. Diverticulitis was unrelated to the cause of death in all cases, although risk of perforation and other complications are possible. }, number={4}, journal={VETERINARY PATHOLOGY}, author={Stacy, B. A. and Innis, C. J. and Daoust, P. -Y. and Wyneken, J. and Miller, M. and Harris, H. and James, M. C. and Christiansen, E. F. and Foley, A.}, year={2015}, month={Jul}, pages={712–715} }
 @article{minter_harms_archibald_broadhurst_bailey_christiansen_lewbart_posner_2013, title={EFFICACY OF ALFAXALONE FOR INTRAVASCULAR ANESTHESIA AND EUTHANASIA IN BLUE CRABS (CALLINECTES SAPIDUS)}, volume={44}, ISSN={1042-7260 1937-2825}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1638/2012-0285r1.1}, DOI={10.1638/2012-0285r1.1}, abstractNote={The objective of this study was to characterize the behavioral effects and changes in heart rate of four doses of alfaxalone delivered by intravascular injection to blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus). Thirty (male, n = 27; female, n = 3) blue crabs were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups of alfaxalone: eight animals were assigned to each of the 5-, 10-, and 15-mg/kg treatment groups, and the remaining six animals were assigned to the 100-mg/kg group. Times for anesthetic induction and recovery periods were recorded. Righting reflex, defensive posturing, and heart rate were evaluated before, during, and after the anesthetic trial. Anesthesia was induced in all 14 animals consolidated into the high-dosage group (15 mg/kg [n = 8] and 100 mg/kg [n = 6]), which was significantly greater than 8 of 16 animals in the low-dosage group (5 mg/kg [n = 2] and 10 mg/kg [n = 6]). Median anesthesia induction time for all crabs was 0.4 min, with no significant difference in induction time between groups observed. Median recovery time was 9.4 min (n = 2), 6.1 min (n = 5), 11.3 min (n = 8), and 66.1 min (n = 5) for the 5-, 10-, 15-, and 100-mg/kg groups, respectively. Recovery times were significantly longer for crabs exposed to an induction dose of 100 mg/kg compared with the 10- and 15-mg/kg induction doses. A significant decrease in the median heart rate was observed between the baseline value and that observed at both induction and 5 min postinjection in the 100-mg/kg dose trial. Two mortalities were observed during the anesthesia trials (n = 1, 10 mg/kg; n = 1, 100 mg/kg), both associated with the autotomization of limbs. In summary, the intravascular administration of alfaxalone at 15 mg/kg provided rapid and reliable sedation, whereas alfaxalone administered at 100 mg/kg produced rapid and long lasting anesthesia.}, number={3}, journal={Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine}, publisher={American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, author={Minter, Larry J. and Harms, Craig A. and Archibald, Kate E and Broadhurst, Heather and Bailey, Kate M. and Christiansen, Emily F. and Lewbart, Gregory A. and Posner, Lysa P.}, year={2013}, month={Sep}, pages={694–699} }
 @article{christiansen_stoskopf_2013, title={pH Dynamics of Tricaine Methanesulfonate (MS-222) in Fresh and Artificial Seawater}, volume={75}, ISSN={1522-2055 1548-8454}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15222055.2013.783519}, DOI={10.1080/15222055.2013.783519}, abstractNote={AbstractTricaine methanesulfonate (MS‐222) solutions are used routinely for clinical and experimental anesthesia of a variety of aquatic organisms. It is commonly accepted that MS‐222 alters pH when added to freshwater, and buffering freshwater anesthetic solutions is considered to be the standard of care. However, buffering saltwater solutions is considered by many to be unnecessary; some individuals question whether any water with high natural mineral hardness needs to be buffered when MS‐222 is added. To assess the need for buffering, we studied the dynamics of pH change when adding clinically relevant amounts of MS‐222 to artificial seawater and to freshwater of varying hardness. We found that artificial seawater does not possess adequate buffering capacity to prevent a physiologically significant drop in pH when MS‐222 is added, and hardness does not accurately predict the reaction of water pH to the addition of MS‐222 in clinically relevant concentrations. Our data for salt water suggest that MS‐222 solutions should be buffered to saturation with sodium bicarbonate and in freshwater should be titrated to the particular water source to satisfy the optimal pH of the species being anesthetized.}, number={3}, journal={North American Journal of Aquaculture}, publisher={Wiley}, author={Christiansen, Emily Fenimore and Stoskopf, Michael K.}, year={2013}, month={Jul}, pages={356–360} }
 @article{christiansen_piniak_lester_harms, title={Underwater anesthesia of diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) for measurement of auditory evoked potentials}, volume={52}, number={6}, journal={Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science}, author={Christiansen, E. F. and Piniak, W. E. D. and Lester, L. A. and Harms, C. A.}, pages={792–797} }