@article{clarke_heugten_tollefson_ridgley_smith_brown_scott_minter_2023, title={Comparison of Corticosterone Concentrations in Dermal Secretions and Urine in Free-Ranging Marine Toads (Rhinella marina) in Human Care}, volume={2023}, ISSN={["2042-0048"]}, DOI={10.1155/2023/1467549}, abstractNote={Corticosterone concentrations have been measured in amphibians by collecting blood or urine samples. However, blood sampling is invasive, and urine can be difficult to collect. A novel method of swabbing the skin of an amphibian has been utilized in numerous species but has not been verified in marine toads (Rhinella marina). This pilot study tested dermal swabs as a noninvasive method for collecting and measuring dermal corticosterone secretions. Swabs were used to collect dermal secretion samples from sixty-six free-ranging marine toads collected on Zoo Miami grounds. The subsequent day the toads were shipped to the North Carolina Zoo where dermal samples were collected again. Additional dermal and urine samples were collected on days 9, 15, 32, and 62 under human care to measure corticosterone concentrations. There was no significant correlation (
P
≥ 0.05) noted between corticosterone concentrations reported in dermal swabs and those in urine samples at all four of the euthanasia time points or between the corticosterone concentrations reported in either urine or dermal swabs and the weight of the toads. Dermal swab concentrations (ng/mL) were significantly higher (
P
≤ 0.05) on the day of capture (0.64 ± 0.03) and the day of arrival (0.67 ± 0.03) than on day 15 (0.47 ± 0.03). The urine corticosterone concentrations decreased while the toads were in human care with a significant decrease (
P
≤ 0.05) between days 9 (0.45 ± 0.07) and 32 (0.21 ± 0.06). This study demonstrated that dermal swabs can be used to collect marine toad corticosterone concentration samples.}, journal={VETERINARY MEDICINE INTERNATIONAL}, author={Clarke, Emma and Heugten, Kimberly Ange-van and Tollefson, Troy N. and Ridgley, Frank N. and Smith, Dustin and Brown, Janine L. and Scott, Heather and Minter, Larry J.}, year={2023}, month={Sep} }
@misc{burnham_ange-van heugten_mckenney_minter_trivedi_2023, title={Conservation Innovations and Future Directions for the Study of Rhinoceros Gut Microbiome}, volume={4}, ISSN={["2673-5636"]}, url={https://www.mdpi.com/2673-5636/4/2/30}, DOI={10.3390/jzbg4020030}, abstractNote={Rhinoceros are among the largest and most endangered herbivores in the world. Three of the five extant species are critically endangered, with poaching and habitat loss contributing heavily to declines. The gut microbiome is an essential facet of host health and digestion, mediating a variety of immune and physiological functions. Certain microbes have the potential to serve as biomarkers for reproductive outcomes and predictors of disease susceptibility. Therefore, assessing gut microbial dynamics in relation to wild and managed rhinoceros populations has particular relevance for zoos and other conservation organizations that maintain assurance populations of these charismatic megafauna. The functional gut microbiomes associated with all rhinoceros species remain poorly studied, and many published reports are limited by small sample sizes and sex biases. In this review, we synthesize current research to examine the rhinoceros gut microbiome under human management and resulting conservation implications, address common pitfalls of wildlife gut microbiome studies, and propose future avenues of research in this field.}, number={2}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS}, author={Burnham, Christina M. and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly and McKenney, Erin A. and Minter, Larry J. and Trivedi, Shweta}, year={2023}, month={Jun}, pages={396–412} }
@article{cassady_balko_bailey_posner_robertson_minter_2023, title={EVALUATION OF OSCILLOMETRIC BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT USING A FINGER CUFF IN ANESTHETIZED CHIMPANZEES (PAN TROGLODYTES)}, volume={54}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2021-0001}, abstractNote={Abstract: Cardiovascular disease is common among chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), and serial blood pressure monitoring in conscious animals may improve disease surveillance and guide hypertension treatment strategies. The objective of this study was to compare the accuracy of a noninvasive, oscillometric blood pressure monitor using a finger blood pressure cuff with invasively measured blood pressure in anesthetized chimpanzees. Twelve chimpanzees were anesthetized with tiletamine–zolazepam intramuscularly, intubated, and maintained on inhaled isoflurane to effect. Blood pressure measurements, which included systolic arterial pressure (SAP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), were collected simultaneously from an oscillometric blood pressure cuff placed on a forelimb digit (FBP) and a direct arterial catheter (IBP) every 5–10 min while anesthetized. One hundred paired samples were collected, and results were compared using Bland–Altman plots and analysis. FBP showed good agreement with IBP for SAP, MAP, and DAP but consistently overestimated values compared with IBP. FBP may be useful for serial blood pressure monitoring in conscious chimpanzees.}, number={1}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Cassady, Katherine R. and Balko, Julie A. and Bailey, Kate M. and Posner, Lysa P. and Robertson, James B. and Minter, Larry J.}, year={2023}, month={Mar}, pages={16–22} }
@article{schlake_cassady_gruber_minter_2023, title={Effect of Prolonged Serum Storage Time and Varied Temperatures on Biochemical Values in African Savanna Elephants (Loxodonta africana)}, volume={4}, ISSN={["2673-5636"]}, DOI={10.3390/jzbg4010002}, abstractNote={Blood samples are routinely collected from wild populations in remote locations with limited electricity, minimal diagnostic capabilities, and extreme environmental conditions. Under these conditions, serum samples may be stored for prolonged time under varied temperatures prior to processing, which could affect the ability to interpretation the results. This study’s objective was to evaluate the effects of delayed processing of serum samples and varied storage temperatures on biochemical values in African savanna elephants (Loxodonta africana). Blood samples were collected from six elephants managed by the North Carolina Zoo. For each elephant, seven red top tubes were collected. One serum sample for each elephant was analyzed on Day 0 (control group). The remaining samples were stored under different temperatures including room temperature (23 °C), refrigeration (2.2 °C), and incubation (32.2 °C), with samples from each temperature group being analyzed on Day 5 and Day 10. Many of analytes (10 out of 18) did not change significantly regardless of storage temperature or time. Refrigeration improved stability in an additional four analytes over prolonged storage. We conclude that if serum is properly separated shortly after collection, many serum biochemical analytes can be accurately measured even after suboptimal serum storage, but refrigeration and prompt evaluation are still required for some analytes.}, number={1}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS}, author={Schlake, Emily L. and Cassady, Katherine R. and Gruber, Erika J. and Minter, Larry J.}, year={2023}, month={Mar}, pages={12–20} }
@article{burnham_mckenney_ange-van heugten_minter_trivedi_2023, title={Effect of fecal preservation method on captive southern white rhinoceros gut microbiome}, volume={3}, ISSN={["2328-5540"]}, DOI={10.1002/wsb.1436}, abstractNote={Abstract}, journal={WILDLIFE SOCIETY BULLETIN}, author={Burnham, Christina M. and McKenney, Erin A. and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly and Minter, Larry J. and Trivedi, Shweta}, year={2023}, month={Mar} }
@article{burnham_mckenney_ange-van heugten_minter_trivedi_2023, title={Effects of age, seasonality, and reproductive status on the gut microbiome of Southern White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) at the North Carolina zoo}, volume={5}, ISSN={["2524-4671"]}, DOI={10.1186/s42523-023-00249-5}, abstractNote={Abstract}, number={1}, journal={ANIMAL MICROBIOME}, author={Burnham, Christina M. M. and McKenney, Erin A. A. and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly and Minter, Larry J. J. and Trivedi, Shweta}, year={2023}, month={May} }
@article{cassady_minter_gruber_2023, title={Performance of a manually operated salad spinner centrifuge for serum separation in the healthy domestic horse (Equus caballus) and southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum)}, volume={7}, ISSN={["1939-165X"]}, url={https://doi.org/10.1111/vcp.13290}, DOI={10.1111/vcp.13290}, abstractNote={Abstract}, journal={VETERINARY CLINICAL PATHOLOGY}, author={Cassady, Katherine R. and Minter, Larry J. and Gruber, Erika J.}, year={2023}, month={Jul} }
@article{cabot_dannemiller_cray_minter_2023, title={Reference Intervals and Clinical Utility of Acute Phase Proteins and Serum Proteins Electrophoresis in the Hamadryas Baboon (Papio hamadryas)}, volume={4}, ISSN={["2673-5636"]}, DOI={10.3390/jzbg4010012}, abstractNote={Measurements of specific acute phase proteins (APP) and protein electrophoresis (EPH) fractions have been widely used to better assess the health of species under managed care across numerous taxa. To date, APP assays have not been validated in the hamadryas baboon (Papio hamadryas), and reference intervals have not yet been established. This information is critical for the interpretation of APP and EPH measurements used in the diagnosis of inflammatory diseases during routine veterinary care of this species. To obtain this information, banked serum samples from hamadryas baboons of various age, sex, and health status, under managed care at the North Carolina Zoo, were analyzed. A small pilot study found significantly higher serum amyloid A (SAA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) but not haptoglobin in baboons with acute inflammation compared to healthy counterparts, so these two APPs were investigated further. Reagents for serum amyloid A (SAA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were validated, although differences in CRP reagents were observed. Based on the results of this study, SAA and CRP were defined as major APPs that were significantly increased in baboons with active inflammation or infection compared to healthy conspecifics. Baboons with acute inflammation additionally had significantly higher gamma globulins compared to healthy baboons. Although mean albumin concentrations were lower in baboons with acute inflammation, the difference from healthy baboons was not statistically significant. This study identifies SAA, CRP, and EPH as useful tools in the diagnosis of inflammatory disease in the hamadryas baboon and establishes reference intervals to aid in the future veterinary care of this species.}, number={1}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS}, author={Cabot, Megan L. and Dannemiller, Nicholas G. and Cray, Carolyn and Minter, Larry J.}, year={2023}, month={Mar}, pages={108–117} }
@article{watanabe_murillo_white_talley_minter_troan_2023, title={Sudden death in a 5-year-old female African pancake tortoise (Malacocherusus tornieri)}, volume={261}, ISSN={["1943-569X"]}, DOI={10.2460/javma.23.07.0399}, number={12}, journal={JAVMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION}, author={Watanabe, Tatiane Terumi Negrao and Murillo, Daniel Felipe Barrantes and White, Anne and Talley, Ashley and Minter, Larry J. and Troan, Brigid V}, year={2023}, month={Dec} }
@article{lee_minter_tollefson_ridgley_smith_treiber_scott_troan_ange-van heugten_2023, title={Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Carotenoid Concentrations in Livers of Marine Toads (Rhinella marina)}, volume={4}, ISSN={["2673-5636"]}, url={https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg4010014}, DOI={10.3390/jzbg4010014}, abstractNote={Global amphibian population decline is a major concern. Therefore, conservation centers have become increasingly needed for population sustainability breeding programs. This need makes proper nutrition programs while in human care imperative. The specific nutritional focus of this current research was to analyze vitamin A, vitamin E, and carotenoid (apocarotenoid, β-carotene, β-carotene ester, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein, lutein ester, zeaxanthin, and zeaxanthin ester) concentrations in the liver of 66 free-range marine toads (Rhinella marina) over a two-month period after entering human management. Toads were fed supplemented crickets randomly assigned to one of two diets: Diet 1 consisted of brown house crickets (Acheta domestica) gut loaded with Mazuri® Cricket Diet 5M38 and small amounts of sweet potato and carrots; Diet 2 consisted of an identical diet with the gut loaded crickets additionally dusted with Repashy® Superfoods Vitamin A Plus. Ten toads were euthanized prior to human management on Day 0 to assess baseline liver nutrients. Seven toads consuming each of the two diets (14 toads total) were euthanized on Days 9, 15, 32, and 62. Regardless of diet treatment, there were decreases (p < 0.05) in all the analyzed nutrient concentrations over the 62-day human management period. The results from this study indicate that higher dietary vitamin A, vitamin E, and carotenoid content may be needed and/or the cricket gut loading and dusting techniques used to feed the amphibians food source insects may be inadequate.}, number={1}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS}, author={Lee, Hanna and Minter, Larry J. and Tollefson, Troy N. and Ridgley, Frank and Smith, Dustin and Treiber, Kimberly and Scott, Heather and Troan, Brigid V. and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly D.}, year={2023}, month={Mar}, pages={134–145} }
@article{wood_minter_bibus_tollefson_ange-van heugten_2022, title={Assessment of the effects of storage temperature on fatty acid analysis using dried blood spot cards from managed southern white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum simum): implications for field collection and nutritional care}, volume={10}, ISSN={2167-8359}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.12896}, DOI={10.7717/peerj.12896}, abstractNote={BackgroundSouthern white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum simum) are an endangered species in decline due to poaching and negative habitat changes. Conservation of the species has become increasingly important and a focus on better human management has become prevalent. One area of management that impacts southern white rhinoceroses is nutritional health monitoring, which is often conducted through blood analysis. Blood analysis conducted during field research can be difficult due to temperature, distance, and limited technological resources, so new methods of fast, and relatively stable blood collection are being pursued. One method that has been used in humans for many years is beginning to make its way into wildlife studies: the use of dried blood spot (DBS) cards. These cards are used as a tool to store single drops of whole blood on specialized filter paper and, once dried, can be used for nutritional biomarker analysis. An area of interest for southern white rhinoceroses and nutrition is monitoring fatty acid percentages for cardiovascular, immune, and reproductive health. The time and temperature limitations for storing blood fractions or liquid whole blood when analyzing fatty acids have been investigated, but few studies have performed storage studies on DBS cards colder than −20 °C or in non-human species.}, journal={PeerJ}, publisher={PeerJ}, author={Wood, Jordan and Minter, Larry J. and Bibus, Doug and Tollefson, Troy N. and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly}, year={2022}, month={Feb}, pages={e12896} }
@article{cerreta_smith_ange‐van heugten_minter_2022, title={Comparative nutrient analysis of four species of cockroaches used as food for insectivores by life stage, species, and sex}, volume={41}, ISSN={0733-3188 1098-2361}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/zoo.21647}, DOI={10.1002/zoo.21647}, abstractNote={Abstract}, number={1}, journal={Zoo Biology}, publisher={Wiley}, author={Cerreta, Anthony J. and Smith, Dustin C. and Ange‐Van Heugten, Kimberly and Minter, Larry J.}, year={2022}, month={Jan}, pages={26–33} }
@article{wood_morgan_ange-van heugten_serrano_minter_fellner_stoskopf_2022, title={Observable Metabolites and Metabolomic Sampling Protocols for Managed African Savanna Elephant (Loxodonta africana) Whole Blood Using H-NMR Spectroscopy}, volume={12}, ISSN={["2218-1989"]}, url={https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo12050400}, DOI={10.3390/metabo12050400}, abstractNote={We used nuclear magnetic spectroscopy (NMR) to evaluate the metabolomics of heparinized whole blood drawn from six African savanna elephants (Loxodonta africana) maintained on a well characterized diet. Whole blood samples obtained under behavioral restraint, then quickly frozen in liquid nitrogen, were stored at −80 °C until analysis. Frozen samples were thawed under controlled conditions and extracted with methanol and chloroform to separate the polar and non-polar metabolites. We identified 18 polar metabolites and 14 non-polar lipids using one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) NMR spectra. Despite unexpected rouleaux formation in the thawed frozen samples, spectra were consistent among animals and did not vary dramatically with age or the sex of the animal.}, number={5}, journal={Metabolites}, author={Wood, J. and Morgan, D.R. and Ange-van Heugten, K. and Serrano, M. and Minter, L.J. and Fellner, V. and Stoskopf, M.K.}, year={2022}, pages={400} }
@article{trivedi_burnham_capobianco_boshoff_zheng_pettiglio_ange-van heugten_bissell_minter_2021, title={Analysis of Blood Biochemistry of Free Ranging and Human-Managed Southern White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) Using the i-STAT Alinity v®}, volume={2021}, ISSN={2042-0048 2090-8113}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2021/2665956}, DOI={10.1155/2021/2665956}, abstractNote={Handheld point-of-care blood analyzers deliver rapid results for biochemical and hematologic parameters, making them very useful in veterinary clinics and in fieldwork applications. This study compared the biochemical and hematologic parameters generated by the novel point-of-care analyzer i-STAT® Alinity V CHEM8+ cartridge between human-managed and free ranging populations of southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum). In addition, a novel reference interval for ionized calcium (iCa), a parameter of diagnostic and prognostic importance, was established for southern white rhinoceros. Blood samples were obtained from 10 managed (6 at NC Zoo and 4 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in 2019) and 30 free ranging white rhinoceros (collected in South Africa between 2018 and 2019) and analyzed using the i-STAT. Multiple parameters were higher (
P
<
0.05
) in free ranging versus managed animals including potassium, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, glucose, hematocrit, and hemoglobin. Conversely, iCa concentrations were higher (
P
<
0.05
) in the managed populations of white rhinoceros. The RI determined for iCa was 1.36–1.56 mmol/L, with a mean of 1.46 mmol/L, and was determined using the guidelines from the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology. There was no difference in anion gap, chlorine, total carbon dioxide, or sodium between the populations. Seasonality and locality of sampling as well as diet may be contributing factors to the higher iCa concentrations in managed rhinoceros. The six elevated parameters in free ranging rhinoceros are likely attributable to dehydration compounded by capture stress. This data provides insight into the state of several biochemical and hematologic parameters in southern white rhinoceros and will allow veterinarians to better assess the health of both managed and free ranging populations.}, journal={Veterinary Medicine International}, publisher={Hindawi Limited}, author={Trivedi, Shweta and Burnham, Christina M. and Capobianco, Christian M. and Boshoff, Christiaan and Zheng, Yaxin and Pettiglio, Jordan Wood and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly and Bissell, Heidi D. and Minter, Larry J.}, editor={Hussni, Carlos AlbertoEditor}, year={2021}, month={Jul}, pages={1–6} }
@article{koutsos_minter_ange-van heugten_mejia-fava_harms_2021, title={Blood Fatty Acid Profiles of Neiritic Juvenile Wild Green Turtles (Chelonia Mydas) and Kemp's Ridleys (Lepidochelys Kempii)}, volume={52}, ISSN={1042-7260}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1638/2019-0173}, DOI={10.1638/2019-0173}, abstractNote={Abstract: Blood fatty acid profiles can indicate an animal's wild-type diet composition and fatty acid status, but have not been reported in sea turtles. Newer technologies allow for fatty acid profiles from very small (less than three drops) samples of whole blood. This study examined whole blood fatty acid profiles of presumably healthy, neritic, juvenile, wild green (Chelonia mydas) (n = 9; 6 males, 3 females) and Kemp's ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) (n = 8; 6 males, 2 females) turtles from North Carolina, USA. Saturated fatty acids, which can be synthesized de novo, consisted primarily of 16:0, although green turtle blood had a higher proportion of 18:0 (P < 0.001) than Kemp's ridleys, while Kemp's ridley blood had higher proportions of 17:0 (P = 0.007), 20:0 (P = 0.03), 22:0 (P= 0.002), and 24:0 (P < 0.001) as compared with green turtles. Total monounsaturated w7 fatty acids, which can be synthesized de novo or may be diet derived, were higher in Kemp's ridleys and predominantly in the form of 16:1 and 18:1w7 fatty acids. Kemp's ridley blood had more than double the relative proportion of 16:1w7 as compared with green turtles (P= 0.03). Green turtles had higher levels of 18:2w6 than Kemp's ridleys (P= 0.02). In both turtle species, 20:4w6 was detected, despite predicted low dietary proportions, suggesting bioconversion from precursors. Finally, green turtles had higher levels of 18:3w3 compared with Kemp's ridleys, while Kemp's ridleys had higher proportions of 20:5w3 compared with green turtles (P < 0.001, = 0.007, respectively). Whole blood fatty acid profiles generally correlate to previous work with lipid depots, supporting the use of this less invasive methodology to advance the understanding of fatty acid nutrition of sea turtles. These data can be used to assess and guide nutrition and health programs for sea turtles under human care.}, number={2}, journal={Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine}, publisher={American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, author={Koutsos, Elizabeth A. and Minter, Larry J. and Ange-Van Heugten, Kimberly D. and Mejia-Fava, Johanna C. and Harms, Craig A.}, year={2021}, month={Jun}, pages={610–617} }
@article{freel_koutsos_minter_tollefson_ridgley_smith_scott_ange‐van heugten_2021, title={Cane toad (
Rhinella marina
) vitamin A, vitamin E, and carotenoid kinetics}, volume={41}, ISSN={0733-3188 1098-2361}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/zoo.21648}, DOI={10.1002/zoo.21648}, abstractNote={Abstract}, number={1}, journal={Zoo Biology}, publisher={Wiley}, author={Freel, Tarra and Koutsos, Elizabeth and Minter, Larry J. and Tollefson, Troy and Ridgley, Frank and Smith, Dustin and Scott, Heather and Ange‐van Heugten, Kimberly}, year={2021}, month={Aug}, pages={34–43} }
@article{wood_minter_bibus_stoskopf_fellner_ange-van heugten_2021, title={Comparison of African savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana) fatty acid profiles in whole blood, whole blood dried on blood spot cards, serum, and plasma}, volume={9}, ISSN={2167-8359}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.12650}, DOI={10.7717/peerj.12650}, abstractNote={
Background
African elephants in managed care have presented differences in the balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, a situation primarily thought to be due to dietary differences between the managed animals and their free-ranging counterparts. Because of this, circulating fatty acid status is included in routine monitoring of elephant health. A method of blood collection that requires only a few drops of whole blood, dried on filter paper (DBS) and can be used for analyzing full fatty acid profiles offers advantages in clinical application.
}, journal={PeerJ}, publisher={PeerJ}, author={Wood, Jordan and Minter, Larry J. and Bibus, Doug and Stoskopf, Michael K. and Fellner, Vivek and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly}, year={2021}, month={Dec}, pages={e12650} }
@article{walker_shank_stoskopf_minter_deperno_2021, title={Efficacy and Cost of GonaCon™ for Population Control in a Free‐ranging White‐tailed Deer Population}, volume={45}, ISSN={2328-5540 2328-5540}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/wsb.1237}, DOI={10.1002/wsb.1237}, abstractNote={ABSTRACT}, number={4}, journal={Wildlife Society Bulletin}, publisher={Wiley}, author={Walker, Micah J. and Shank, G. Christopher and Stoskopf, Michael K. and Minter, Larry J. and DePerno, Christopher S.}, year={2021}, month={Dec}, pages={589–596} }
@article{eschweiler_clayton_moresco_mckenney_minter_suhr van haute_gasper_hayer_zhu_cooper_et al._2021, title={Host Identity and Geographic Location Significantly Affect Gastrointestinal Microbial Richness and Diversity in Western Lowland Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) under Human Care}, volume={11}, ISSN={2076-2615}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani11123399}, DOI={10.3390/ani11123399}, abstractNote={The last few decades have seen an outpouring of gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome studies across diverse host species. Studies have ranged from assessments of GI microbial richness and diversity to classification of novel microbial lineages. Assessments of the “normal” state of the GI microbiome composition across multiple host species has gained increasing importance for distinguishing healthy versus diseased states. This study aimed to determine baselines and trends over time to establish “typical” patterns of GI microbial richness and diversity, as well as inter-individual variation, in three populations of western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) under human care at three zoological institutions in North America. Fecal samples were collected from 19 western lowland gorillas every two weeks for seven months (n = 248). Host identity and host institution significantly affected GI microbiome community composition (p < 0.05), although host identity had the most consistent and significant effect on richness (p = 0.03) and Shannon diversity (p = 0.004) across institutions. Significant changes in microbial abundance over time were observed only at Denver Zoo (p < 0.05). Our results suggest that individuality contributes to most of the observed GI microbiome variation in the study populations. Our results also showed no significant changes in any individual’s microbial richness or Shannon diversity during the 7-month study period. While some microbial taxa (Prevotella, Prevotellaceae and Ruminococcaceae) were detected in all gorillas at varying levels, determining individual baselines for microbial composition comparisons may be the most useful diagnostic tool for optimizing non-human primate health under human care.}, number={12}, journal={Animals}, publisher={MDPI AG}, author={Eschweiler, Katrina and Clayton, Jonathan B. and Moresco, Anneke and McKenney, Erin A. and Minter, Larry J. and Suhr Van Haute, Mallory J. and Gasper, William and Hayer, Shivdeep Singh and Zhu, Lifeng and Cooper, Kathryn and et al.}, year={2021}, month={Nov}, pages={3399} }
@article{wood_minter_stoskopf_bibus_ange_tollefson_fellner_ange-van heugten_2021, title={Investigation of Dried Blood Spot Cards for Fatty Acid Analysis Using Porcine Blood}, volume={2021}, ISSN={2042-0048 2090-8113}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2021/6624751}, DOI={10.1155/2021/6624751}, abstractNote={Fatty acids, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are important for reproductive and cardiovascular health in animals. While monitoring fatty acids is traditionally conducted using frozen blood fractions such as serum and plasma, advancements in analytical technology have developed a method of collecting microsamples of dried whole blood on Ahlstrom 226 grade filter paper that can provide information on long-term fatty acid status of animals. Blood samples were collected from five male pigs in both the traditional frozen method and on dried blood spot cards (DBS). The DBS samples were collected with untreated syringes and tubes, and approximately 320 μL of blood was placed on each card with approximately 80 μL per spot (4 spots). Statistical analysis was performed to compare the two sample groups to each other using the Mann–Whitney U-test and determine if DBS samples were similar to traditional whole blood samples. Of the 30 fatty acids and fatty acid groups with measurable concentrations, only four individual fatty acids, behenic acid, omega-3 docosapentaenoic acid, nervonic acid, and adrenic acid, had statistical differences. Most of these differences were minor and could be due to analytical errors or contamination. Comparisons between sample types found similar concentrations of key omega fatty acids and PUFAs and support the use of DBS collection as a less invasive method of blood collection and fatty acid analysis.}, journal={Veterinary Medicine International}, publisher={Hindawi Limited}, author={Wood, Jordan and Minter, Larry J. and Stoskopf, Michael K. and Bibus, Doug and Ange, Dempsy and Tollefson, Troy N. and Fellner, Vivek and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly}, editor={Hikasa, YoshiakiEditor}, year={2021}, month={Aug}, pages={1–4} }
@article{cabot_troan_ange-van heugten_schnellbacher_smith_ridgley_minter_2021, title={Migration and Histologic Effects of Visible Implant Elastomer (VIE) and Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) Tags in the Marine Toad (Rhinella marina)}, volume={11}, ISSN={2076-2615}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani11113255}, DOI={10.3390/ani11113255}, abstractNote={Passive integrated transponder (PIT) and visible implant elastomer (VIE) tags are commonly used to identify reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Despite reports of good retention rates and little to no negative effect on survival time, migration remains a concern and histologic changes have not been widely evaluated. Fifty-six wild-caught marine toads (Rhinella marina) were marked with a PIT tag in the left caudal thigh and a VIE tag over the right gastrocnemius muscle prior to transport to the North Carolina Zoo. Fourteen toads were then humanely euthanized on day 9, 15, 32, and 62 for postmortem examination and histopathology which were compared to 10 control toads with no tags. All PIT tags were functional and 95% remained at the insertion site with minimal to no histologic changes. Externally, 48% of VIE tags were visible through the skin at the original site of injection under fluorescent or UV light. Upon gross examination of the tissues, VIE tags had an overall retention rate of 62% at the injection site, with similar retention rates across time points. Migrated VIE material was visible grossly and histologically in the kidneys of 98% of toads and along the right leg, proximally and distally, in 25% of toads. VIE material was also found sporadically in mesentery, colon, and free in the coelomic cavity. Histologically, VIE material in the skin was surrounded by minimal to mild granulomatous inflammation while in the kidney it was associated with dilation of the small vessels, edema, and granulomatous nephritis that progressed in severity over time. Based on these findings, the authors recommend the use of PIT tags over VIE tags for identification of adult anurans, when feasible.}, number={11}, journal={Animals}, publisher={MDPI AG}, author={Cabot, Megan L. and Troan, Brigid V. and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly and Schnellbacher, Rodney W. and Smith, Dustin and Ridgley, Frank and Minter, Larry J.}, year={2021}, month={Nov}, pages={3255} }
@article{phillips_dierenfeld_english_troan_reininger_zombeck_devoe_wolfe_loomis_minter_2021, title={Retrospective Analysis of Cataract Formation and Nutritional Etiology in a Managed Collection of Parakeet Auklets (Aethia psittacula)}, volume={35}, ISSN={["1938-2871"]}, DOI={10.1647/20-00037}, abstractNote={Abstract: The parakeet auklet (Aethia psittacula) is a piscivorous seabird with a natural diet of various invertebrate and teleost species, which is challenging to replicate in a managed collection. A high prevalence of early onset cataracts was observed in a managed collection of parakeet auklets at the North Carolina Zoo (Asheboro, NC, USA), which was hypothesized to be related to inappropriate vitamin A and E levels. From 1994 to 2002, these parakeet auklets were offered dietary supplementation comprising Vita-Zu small bird tablets. In June 2002, the birds were transitioned to only Thiamin-E paste (vitamin E and thiamin only). Plasma samples were collected from birds with and without cataracts from 1998 to 2005 and submitted for vitamin A (retinol) and vitamin E (α-tocopherol) analysis. Food items comprising the birds' diet were also evaluated for vitamin content. This information was combined with clinical and necropsy data from medical records from 1994 to 2015. A total of 78% of birds (39/50) developed cataracts, with a median age of onset of 7 years (range, 2–12 years). Cataracts ranged from incipient to hypermature during both routine ophthalmic examinations and postmortem evaluations. The median (range) of plasma retinol and α-tocopherol values were 1.99 µg/mL (0.20–6.68 µg/mL) and 15.39 µg/mL (3.40–96.27 µg/mL), respectively. There were no significant differences in plasma concentrations of vitamins based on the animals' sex, origin, presence of cataracts, or administered vitamin supplementation product. No other etiologies for cataract development were identified in the population. Further research in free-ranging parakeet auklet nutrition and cataract occurrence is warranted for continued species collection management.}, number={4}, journal={JOURNAL OF AVIAN MEDICINE AND SURGERY}, author={Phillips, Brianne E. and Dierenfeld, Ellen S. and English, Robert and Troan, Brigid and Reininger, Ken and Zombeck, Debbie J. and DeVoe, Ryan S. and Wolfe, Barbara and Loomis, Michael R. and Minter, Larry J.}, year={2021}, month={Dec}, pages={390–401} }
@article{freel_koutsos_minter_tollefson_ridgley_brown_smith_scott_ange-van heugten_2021, title={URINARY CORTICOSTERONE CONCENTRATIONS IN FREE-RANGING AND MANAGED CANE TOADS (RHINELLA MARINA)}, volume={52}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2020-0221}, abstractNote={Abstract: Approximately 40% of amphibian species are threatened with extinction. The welfare of amphibians maintained under managed care as assurance populations is of vital importance to guard against extinction and provide a viable source population for future reintroduction. To manage amphibian species properly ex situ, it is important to understand how stress levels change over time when animals are removed from the wild and placed into managed environments. Corticosterone was analyzed in urine samples from free-ranging cane toads (Rhinella marina, n = 55) in Miami, FL, and under managed care for 22 (n = 48), 50 (n = 11), 81 (n = 25), or 119 (n = 10) days. Concentrations of corticosterone in free-ranging toad urine averaged 1.74 ± 0.195 ng/ml urine specific gravity (sp. gr.), which was greater (P < 0.05) than other time points (day 22: 0.77 ± 0.114 L; day 81: 0.85 ± 0.191 ng/ml sp. gr.; day 119: 0.58 ± 0.093 ng/ml sp. gr.), except day 50 (0.91 ± 0.274 ng/ml sp. gr.), which was not different from free-ranging or managed care values. Thus, corticosterone was lower in cane toads under managed care compared with those sampled in the wild, suggesting that managed care is not a stressor for this species.}, number={4}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Freel, Tarra and Koutsos, Elizabeth and Minter, Larry J. and Tollefson, Troy N. and Ridgley, Frank and Brown, Janine L. and Smith, Dustin and Scott, Heather and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly}, year={2021}, month={Dec}, pages={1234–1240} }
@article{tucker_archibald_cohen_sommer_keene_minter_delk_2021, title={What Is Your Diagnosis?}, volume={35}, ISSN={["1938-2871"]}, DOI={10.1647/21-00060}, abstractNote={A captive 38-year-old female Chilean flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis) presented with an approximately 4-day history of being listless and moving slowly behind the flock. The flamingo had been housed at the North Carolina Zoo (Asheboro, NC, USA) for the previous 28 years. This bird’s medical history included mild intermittent lameness associated with pododermatitis and a cloacal papilloma diagnosed via biopsy 9 years earlier. The flamingo habitat at the North Carolina Zoo covers approximately 12.23 15.2 m with a 3.2 3 5.6-m indoor holding area. The mixed sex (9:8 ratio) flock of 17 flamingoes are fed a diet consisting of Mazuri Flamingo Complete pellets (Mazuri Exotic Animal Nutrition, St Louis, MO, USA). On presentation, the flamingo weighed 1.85 kg (historical weight 2–2.4 kg), with a body condition score (BCS) of 1.5/5. Tachycardia was auscultated and later confirmed by electrocardiogram (ECG) to be a ventricular tachycardia of approximately 400 beats per minute (Fig 1). Complete blood count revealed a monocytosis (31%; reference range, 0.0%–7.8%) with a total white blood cell count of 22 610 cells/lL (reference range, 2900– 20 000 cells/lL). An echocardiogram (SonoSite M-Turbo, Bothell, WA, USA) performed with a C11X (8–5-MHz transducer) semilinear probe revealed severe dilation of the left ventricle and decreased cardiac systolic function (fractional shortening 18.3% compared with 81.5% in an ageand sex-matched clinically normal flamingo) (Fig 2A through D). Comparison ECG and echocardiographic findings were obtained on a sex-matched 32-year-old female Chilean flamingo from the same flock. This apparently healthy younger bird had a heart rate of 200 beats per minute with sinus rhythm, more robust systolic left ventricular function, and no cardiac chamber dilation. Further diagnostic imaging and medical management of the cardiac abnormalities were discussed.}, number={4}, journal={JOURNAL OF AVIAN MEDICINE AND SURGERY}, author={Tucker, Samuel and Archibald, Kate and Cohen, Eli B. and Sommer, Samantha and Keene, Bruce W. and Minter, Larry J. and Delk, Katie W.}, year={2021}, month={Dec}, pages={486–493} }
@article{wood_koutsos_kendall_minter_tollefson_ange‐van heugten_2020, title={Analyses of African elephant (
Loxodonta africana
) diet with various browse and pellet inclusion levels}, volume={39}, ISSN={0733-3188 1098-2361}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/zoo.21522}, DOI={10.1002/zoo.21522}, abstractNote={Abstract}, number={1}, journal={Zoo Biology}, publisher={Wiley}, author={Wood, Jordan and Koutsos, Elizabeth and Kendall, Corinne J. and Minter, Larry J. and Tollefson, Troy N. and Ange‐van Heugten, Kimberly}, year={2020}, month={Jan}, pages={37–50} }
@article{dass_koutsos_minter_ange-van heugten_2020, title={Analysis of Fatty Acid Profiles in Eastern Box (Terrapene Carolina Carolina) and Common Snapping (Chelydra Serpentine) Turtles for Wild and Managed Care Environments}, volume={51}, ISSN={1042-7260}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1638/2019-0146}, DOI={10.1638/2019-0146}, abstractNote={Abstract: The housing of wild animals in managed care facilities requires attention to all aspects of husbandry. Diets of wild animals often differ in composition, consistency, and quantity when compared with those in managed care settings including zoos, rehabilitation facilities, and aquaria. It was hypothesized that dietary differences from wild versus managed care would be reflected in data of circulating fatty acids based on previous studies. The current study examined the effect of species and environment on fatty acid concentrations in two omnivorous species of chelonians: Eastern box turtles, Terrapene carolina carolina, and common snapping turtles, Chelydra serpentina, located in the wild and managed care. Whole blood was collected and placed on spot cards for analysis of 26 fatty acids in a total lipid fatty acid profile. The present research indicated that Eastern box turtles have significantly (P < 0.05) higher percentages of linoleic acid (18:2n6), eicosadienoic acid (20:2n6), and mead acid (20:3n9). Common snapping turtles have significantly (P < 0.05) higher percentages of myristic acid (14:0), dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (20:3n6), erucic acid (22:1n9), and n-6 docosapentaenoic acid (22:5n6). Environmental effects also were noted; wild turtles had higher percentages of α-linolenic acid (18:3n3), arachidic acid (20:0), eicosadienoic acid (20:2n6), and eicosatrienoic acid (20:3n3) (P < 0.05), whereas n-6 docosapentaenoic acid (22:5n6) was higher for the managed care group. Eicosadienoic acid (20:2n6), behenic acid; 22:0), adrenic acid (22:4n6), n-6 docosapentaenoic acid (22:5n6), and nervonic acid (24:1) were significantly different (P < 0.05) in species–environment interactions without any noted species or environment patterns. Fatty acids are useful for many important biological functions including proper immune system regulation, and therefore, the present research provides medically relevant data for reptile diagnostics. This research may help further improve diets of all chelonians kept in managed care, regardless of species.}, number={3}, journal={Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine}, publisher={American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, author={Dass, Khushboo and Koutsos, Elizabeth and Minter, Larry J. and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly}, year={2020}, month={Nov}, pages={478–484} }
@article{wood_koutsos_kendall_minter_tollefson_ivory_ange‐van heugten_2020, title={Circulating nutrients and hematological parameters in managed African elephants (
Loxodonta Africana
) over a 1‐year period}, volume={39}, ISSN={0733-3188 1098-2361}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/zoo.21556}, DOI={10.1002/zoo.21556}, abstractNote={Abstract}, number={5}, journal={Zoo Biology}, publisher={Wiley}, author={Wood, Jordan and Koutsos, Elizabeth and Kendall, Corinne J. and Minter, Larry J. and Tollefson, Troy and Ivory, Erin and Ange‐van Heugten, Kimberly}, year={2020}, month={Jul}, pages={345–354} }
@article{eertink_wood_pellikaan_minter_ange-van heugten_bosch_2020, title={In-vitro fermentation of commonly fed forage using African elephant Loxodonta africana faecal inoculum}, volume={8}, ISSN={["2214-7594"]}, DOI={10.19227/jzar.v8i4.513}, number={4}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND AQUARIUM RESEARCH}, author={Eertink, Lianne G. and Wood, Jordan and Pellikaan, Wilbert F. and Minter, Larry J. and Ange-van Heugten, Kimberly and Bosch, Guido}, year={2020}, pages={259–267} }
@article{louis_minter_flowers_stoskopf_kennedy-stoskopf_2020, title={Raccoon roundworm prevalence (Baylisascaris procyonis) at the North Carolina Zoo, USA}, volume={8}, ISSN={["2167-8359"]}, DOI={10.7717/peerj.9426}, abstractNote={Baylisascaris procyonis is an important zoonotic nematode of raccoons (Procyon lotor). Infection with this parasite has important health implications for humans, zoo animals, and free-ranging wildlife. As a large, natural habitat zoo, the North Carolina Zoo (NC Zoo) coexists with native wildlife. Raccoons are abundant at the NC Zoo and the prevalence of B. procyonis is unknown. Raccoon latrines were located through employee reporting and systematic searching throughout the zoo and sampled for B. procyonis in October and November of 2018 and 2019. Parasite prevalence, latrine location, substrate category and latrine persistence were recorded. Thirty-three latrines were located in 2018 and eight new latrines in 2019 while four latrines from the prior year were no longer available to be sampled. Of the 29 latrines sampled over the two years, 16 (55%) persisted for at least one year. The majority of the latrines were found on natural substrate with rock showing the highest preference. Just over half (n = 21 of 41 total) of the active latrines in the study were in or immediately adjacent to animal enclosures. Two latrines were found in public areas including one contaminating children’s play equipment. Additionally, fresh fecal samples were collected from five adult raccoons presented to the zoo’s veterinary clinic in 2018 and 2019. All fecal samples tested by centrifugal flotation for both years were negative for B. procyonis. The results of this study show the value of field sampling to properly assess risk and enable informed decision-making regarding public health and wildlife management.}, journal={PEERJ}, author={Louis, Meghan M. and Minter, Larry J. and Flowers, James R. and Stoskopf, Michael K. and Kennedy-Stoskopf, Suzanne}, year={2020}, month={Jul} }
@article{cerreta_cannizzo_smith_minter_2020, title={Venous hematology, biochemistry, and blood gas analysis of free-ranging Eastern Copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix) and Eastern Ratsnakes (Pantherophis alleghaniensis)}, volume={15}, ISSN={["1932-6203"]}, DOI={10.1371/journal.pone.0229102}, abstractNote={Hematology, plasma biochemistry, and blood gas analysis were performed on venous samples obtained from free-ranging Eastern Copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix) and Eastern Ratsnakes (Pantherophis alleghaniensis) in central North Carolina during a mark-recapture study conducted from April to October 2015 at the North Carolina Zoo. Blood samples were collected from 31 (15 male and 16 female) free-ranging copperheads and 34 (20 male and 14 female) free-ranging ratsnakes at the beginning and end of restraint. Restraint was performed for morphometric measurements, sex determination, and identification via placement of intracelomic passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags and marking of ventral scutes with a handheld electrocautery unit. Blood gas analytes were measured at the beginning of restraint and compared to analytes measured at the end to evaluate for changes secondary to handling. Total restraint time prior to the first blood sampling was 1.4 ± 0.4 mins (mean ± SD) and 1.0 ± 0.2 mins (mean ± SD) and restraint time prior to second blood sampling was 12.5 ± 2.4 mins (mean ± SD) and 13.5 ± 3.4 mins (mean ± SD) for copperheads and ratsnakes, respectively. Blood lactate concentrations at the beginning of restraint were similar for both species. Lactate concentrations increased significantly and pH decreased significantly for both species at the end of restraint when compared to the beginning of restraint. Furthermore, lactate concentrations at the end of restraint were significantly elevated in ratsnakes compared to copperheads. This study provides guidelines for interpretation of venous hematology, plasma biochemistry, and blood gas values for free-ranging copperheads and ratsnakes in central North Carolina and demonstrates the physiological response to venous blood gas analytes secondary to capture and restraint.}, number={2}, journal={PLOS ONE}, author={Cerreta, Anthony J. and Cannizzo, Sarah A. and Smith, Dustin C. and Minter, Larry J.}, year={2020}, month={Feb} }
@article{archibald_minter_dombrowski_jodi l. o'brien_lewbart_2015, title={CYSTIC UROLITHIASIS IN CAPTIVE WAXY MONKEY FROGS (PHYLLOMEDUSA SAUVAGII)}, volume={46}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2014-0086r1.1}, abstractNote={Abstract: The waxy monkey frog (Phyllomedusa sauvagii) is an arboreal amphibian native to arid regions of South America, and it has developed behavioral and physiologic adaptations to permit survival in dry environments. These adaptations include a uricotelic nitrogen metabolism and unique cutaneous lipid excretions to prevent evaporative water loss. Uroliths are a rare finding in amphibians. Six adult, presumed wild-caught waxy monkey frogs housed in a museum animal collection were diagnosed with cystic urolithiasis over a 7-yr period, and a single animal was diagnosed with four recurrent cases. Six cases were identified incidentally at routine physical or postmortem examination and four cases were identified during veterinary evaluation for coelomic distension, lethargy, anorexia, and increased soaking behavior. Calculi were surgically removed from three frogs via cystotomy, and a single frog underwent three cystotomies and two cloacotomies for recurrent urolithiasis. Two frogs died within the 24-hr postoperative period. Two representative calculi from a single frog were submitted for component analysis and found to consist of 100% ammonium urate. In the present report, cystic calculi are proposed to be the result of a high-protein diet based on a single invertebrate source, coupled with uricotelism, dehydration, increased cutaneous water loss, body temperature fluctuations facilitating supersaturation of urine, and subsequent accumulation and precipitation of urogenous wastes within the urinary bladder. Surgical cystotomy represents a short-term treatment strategy for this condition. Preventative measures, such as supplying a diversified and balanced diet in addition to environmental manipulation aimed at promoting adequate hydration, are anticipated to be more-rewarding management tools for cystic urolithiasis in the waxy monkey frog.}, number={1}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Archibald, Kate E. and Minter, Larry J. and Dombrowski, Daniel S. and Jodi L. O'Brien and Lewbart, Gregory A.}, year={2015}, month={Mar}, pages={105–112} }
@article{bailey_minter_lewbart_harms_griffith_posner_2014, title={ALFAXALONE AS AN INTRAMUSCULAR INJECTABLE ANESTHETIC IN KOI CARP (CYPRINUS CARPIO)}, volume={45}, ISSN={1042-7260 1937-2825}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1638/2014-0056.1}, DOI={10.1638/2014-0056.1}, abstractNote={Abstract: Fish are commonly anesthetized with MS-222 (tricaine methanesulfonate), a sodium-channel-blocker used as an immersion anesthetic, but its mechanism of action as a general anesthetic is uncertain. Alfaxalone is a neurosteroid that acts at the GABAA receptors. Alfaxalone has been evaluated and was deemed successful as an immersion agent in koi carp. Alfaxalone is an effective intramuscular anesthetic in multiple species. A reliable intramuscular anesthetic in fish would be useful in multiple settings. The purpose of this study was to investigate alfaxalone as an intramuscular injectable anesthetic agent in koi carp (Cyprinus carpio). Eight koi carp were utilized in a crossover design. In each trial, six fish received 1 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, or 10 mg/kg of alfaxalone intramuscularly. They were assessed every 15 min for opercular rate and sedation score. The sedation score was based on a visual scale from 0 to 5, 0 indicating no response and 5 indicating absent righting reflex and anesthesia. Anesthetized koi were placed on a fish anesthesia delivery system (FADS). Time to anesthesia/recovery was recorded and heart rate was recorded every 15 min. Anesthesia was achieved in 0/6, 1/6, and 5/6 fish at 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg, respectively. Duration of anesthesia for one fish at 5 mg/kg was 2 hr. At 10 mg/kg, median anesthesia duration was 6.5 (3–10) hr. At 10 mg/kg, prolonged apnea (2–3 hr) was observed in 3/6 fish, 2/3 died under anesthesia, and 1/3 recovered 10 hr post-injection. Median peak sedation scores were 1.5, 2.5, and 5, at 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg, respectively. A dosage of 10 mg/kg alfaxalone resulted in 33% mortality. The duration of anesthesia and opercular rate were unpredictable. Due to variation in response despite consistent conditions, as well as risk of mortality, intramuscular alfaxalone cannot be recommended for anesthesia in koi carp.}, number={4}, journal={Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine}, publisher={American Association of Zoo Veterinarians}, author={Bailey, Kate M. and Minter, Larry J. and Lewbart, Gregory A. and Harms, Craig A. and Griffith, Emily H. and Posner, Lysa P.}, year={2014}, month={Dec}, pages={852–858} }
@article{archibald_minter_lewbart_bailey_2014, title={Collection and characterization of semen from Chilean rose tarantulas (Grammostola rosea)}, volume={75}, ISSN={["1943-5681"]}, DOI={10.2460/ajvr.75.10.929}, abstractNote={Abstract}, number={10}, journal={AMERICAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY RESEARCH}, author={Archibald, Kate E. and Minter, Larry J. and Lewbart, Gregory A. and Bailey, C. Scott}, year={2014}, month={Oct}, pages={929–936} }
@article{monson_minter_krouse_de voe_2014, title={IDENTIFYING AND MANAGING AN ADVERSE FOOD REACTION IN A POLAR BEAR (URSUS MARITIMUS) BYAN ELIMINATION DIET TRIAL}, volume={45}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2013-0161r.1}, abstractNote={Abstract: A 16-yr-old polar bear (Ursus maritimus) presented with severe diarrhea shortly following transfer to the North Carolina Zoological Park. Multiple diagnostic procedures were performed over several months and the cause of the chronic diarrhea was inconclusive. Histologically, colonic mucosal biopsies were consistent with severe chronic eosinophilic and lymphoplasmacytic colitis with no evidence of etiologic agents present. A dietary elimination trial was conducted and an adverse food reaction to the dog chow in the diet was confirmed.}, number={2}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Monson, Sara and Minter, Larry J. and Krouse, Marissa and De Voe, Ryan S.}, year={2014}, month={Jun}, pages={417–419} }
@article{minter_bailey_harms_lewbart_posner_2014, title={The efficacy of alfaxalone for immersion anesthesia in koi carp (Cyprinus carpio)}, volume={41}, ISSN={1467-2987}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/vaa.12113}, DOI={10.1111/vaa.12113}, abstractNote={OBJECTIVE
To characterize the physiologic and behavioral effects of a single induction dose and two maintenance doses of alfaxalone delivered by water immersion in the anesthesia of koi (Cyprinus carpio).
STUDY DESIGN
Prospective, within-subject complete crossover design.
ANIMALS
Six adult koi (Cyprinus carpio) with a median body weight of 344.5 g (range 292.0-405.0 g).
METHODS
Koi were immersed in water containing 10 mg L(-1) alfaxalone until immobile and then maintained with alfaxalone at either 1 or 2.5 mg L(-1) via a recirculating water system. Times for anesthetic induction and recovery periods were recorded. Physiologic and blood gas parameters were evaluated before, during and after the anesthetic trial. Response to noxious stimuli was also assessed.
RESULTS
Median anesthesia induction time for all fish was 5.4 minutes. Median recovery time was 11.8 and 26.4 minutes in the 1.0 and 2.5 mg L(-1) doses, respectively, which were significantly different (p = 0.04). Cessation of opercular movement occurred in 0/6 and 4/6 fish exposed to 1.0 and 2.5 mg L(-1) dose respectively. No difference was observed in median heart rate over the duration of the anesthetic events. Response to noxious stimulation was 4/6 and 0/6 in the 1.0 and 2.5 mg L(-1) doses respectively. Oxygenation and ventilation did not change during the experiment, but there was a significant decrease in blood pH along with an increase in blood lactate concentration.
CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Administration of alfaxalone, via water immersion, as an induction and maintenance anesthesia agent provided rapid and reliable anesthesia of koi with no mortality. The maintenance dose of 2.5 mg L(-1) was sufficient to prevent response to noxious stimuli but was associated with a clinically relevant depression in opercular rate.}, number={4}, journal={Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia}, publisher={Elsevier BV}, author={Minter, Larry J and Bailey, Kate M and Harms, Craig A and Lewbart, Gregory A and Posner, Lysa P}, year={2014}, month={Jul}, pages={398–405} }
@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{minter_cullen_loomis_2012, title={Reye's or Reye's-like syndrome in western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla)}, volume={41}, ISSN={["0047-2565"]}, DOI={10.1111/j.1600-0684.2012.00554.x}, abstractNote={Abstract}, number={5}, journal={JOURNAL OF MEDICAL PRIMATOLOGY}, author={Minter, Larry J. and Cullen, John M. and Loomis, Michael R.}, year={2012}, month={Oct}, pages={329–331} }
@article{minter_stoskopf_serrano_burrus_lewbart_2012, title={Suspected lead toxicosis in an electric eel, Electrophorus electricus (L.)}, volume={35}, ISSN={["0140-7775"]}, DOI={10.1111/j.1365-2761.2012.01386.x}, abstractNote={Journal of Fish DiseasesVolume 35, Issue 8 p. 603-606 Short Communication Suspected lead toxicosis in an electric eel, Electrophorus electricus (L.) L J Minter, L J Minter Environmental Medicine Consortium and Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USASearch for more papers by this authorM K Stoskopf, M K Stoskopf Environmental Medicine Consortium and Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USASearch for more papers by this authorM Serrano, M Serrano Environmental Medicine Consortium and Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USASearch for more papers by this authorO Burrus, O Burrus NC Aquarium/Roanoke Island, Manteo, NC, USASearch for more papers by this authorG A Lewbart, G A Lewbart Environmental Medicine Consortium and Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USASearch for more papers by this author L J Minter, L J Minter Environmental Medicine Consortium and Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USASearch for more papers by this authorM K Stoskopf, M K Stoskopf Environmental Medicine Consortium and Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USASearch for more papers by this authorM Serrano, M Serrano Environmental Medicine Consortium and Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USASearch for more papers by this authorO Burrus, O Burrus NC Aquarium/Roanoke Island, Manteo, NC, USASearch for more papers by this authorG A Lewbart, G A Lewbart Environmental Medicine Consortium and Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, USASearch for more papers by this author First published: 21 May 2012 https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2761.2012.01386.xCitations: 1 L J Minter, Environmental Medicine Consortium and Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 1060 William Moore Dr, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA (e-mail: [email protected]) Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onEmailFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat References Ayotunde E.O. & Ochang S.N. (2004) Ichthyhaematological studies on the electric catfish, Malapterurus electricus. Global Journal of Agricultural Science 3, 5–14. Google Scholar Barak N.E. & Mason C.F. (1990) Mercury, cadmium and lead in eels and roachs: the effect of size, season and locality on metal concentrations in flesh and liver. The Science of the Total Environment 92, 249–256. 10.1016/0048-9697(90)90334-Q CASPubMedWeb of Science®Google Scholar Blakley B.R. (1984) A retrospective study of lead poisoning in cattle. Veterinary and Human Toxicology 26, 505–507. CASPubMedWeb of Science®Google Scholar Bratton G.R. & Kowalczk D.F. (1989) Lead poisoning. In: Current Veterinary Therapy X (ed. by R.W. Kirk), pp 152–159. W.B. Saunders Co., Philadelphia, PA. Google Scholar Ciftci N., Cicik B., Erdem C. & Ay Ö. (2008) Effects of lead concentrations on sera parameters and hematocrit levels in Anguilla anguilla. Journal of Fisheries Science 2, 616–622. CASGoogle Scholar Dumonceaux G. & Harrison G.J. (1994) Toxins. In: Avian Medicine: Principles and Applications (ed. by B.W. Ritchie, G.J. Harrison & L.R. Harrison), pp 1030–1052. Wingers, Lake Worth, FL. Google Scholar Franson J.C. (1996) Interpretation of tissue lead residues in birds other than waterfowl. In: Environmental Contaminants in Wildlife: Interpreting Tissue Concentrations (ed. by W.N. Beyer, G.H. Heinz & A.W. Redmon-Norwood), pp 265–279. CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL. Google Scholar Martinez C.R., Nagae M.Y., Zaia C.V. & Zaia D.M. (2004) Acute morphological and physiological effects of lead in the neotropical fish Prochilodus lineatus. Brazilian Journal of Biology 64, 797–807. 10.1590/S1519-69842004000500009 CASPubMedGoogle Scholar Mautino M. (1997) Lead and zinc intoxication in zoological medicine: a review. 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Saunders Co., Philadelphia, PA. Google Scholar Prasad G. & Charles S. (2010) Haematology and leucocyte enzyme cytochemistry of a threatened yellow catfish Horabagrus brachysoma. Fish Physiology and Biochemistry 36, 435–443. 10.1007/s10695-009-9313-y CASPubMedWeb of Science®Google Scholar Santos M.A. & Aristides H. (1990) Influence of inorganic lead on the biochemical blood composition of the eel, Anguilla anguilla. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety 20, 7–9. 10.1016/0147-6513(90)90040-C CASPubMedWeb of Science®Google Scholar Shah S.L. (2006) Hematological parameters in tench Tinca tinca after short term exposure to lead. Journal of Applied Toxicology 26, 223–228. 10.1002/jat.1129 CASPubMedWeb of Science®Google Scholar Silbergeld E.K. & Goldberg A.M. (1980) Problems in experimental studies of lead poisoning. In: Lead Toxicity (ed. by R.L. Singhal & J.A. Thomas), pp 19–41. Urban & Schwarzenberg, Baltimore. Google Scholar Sorensen E.M. (1991) Lead. In: Metal Poisoning in Fish (ed. by E.M. Sorensen), pp 95–110. CRC Press, Boca Raton. Web of Science®Google Scholar Zook B.C., Sauer R.M. & Garner F.M. (1972) Lead poisoning in captive wild animals. Journal of Wildlife Disease 8, 264–272. 10.7589/0090-3558-8.3.264 CASPubMedGoogle Scholar Citing Literature Volume35, Issue8August 2012Pages 603-606 ReferencesRelatedInformation}, number={8}, journal={JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES}, author={Minter, L. J. and Stoskopf, M. K. and Serrano, M. and Burrus, O. and Lewbart, G. A.}, year={2012}, month={Aug}, pages={603–606} }
@article{minter_clarke_gjeltema_archibald_posner_lewbart_2011, title={EFFECTS OF INTRAMUSCULAR MELOXICAM ADMINISTRATION ON PROSTAGLANDIN E2 SYNTHESIS IN THE NORTH AMERICAN BULLFROG (RANA CATESBEIANA)}, volume={42}, ISSN={["1937-2825"]}, DOI={10.1638/2011-0126.1}, abstractNote={Abstract: Meloxicam is a commonly used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) in veterinary medicine, but its use in amphibians has not been reported in the literature. NSAIDs are known to act by providing anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the intramuscular administration of meloxicam would decrease the circulating serum PGE2 levels in the North American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) following tissue trauma induced by a punch biopsy. Eighteen adult North American bullfrogs were randomly assigned to two treatment groups: meloxicam (0.1 mg/kg i.m.) and control (0.9% saline i.m.). Blood was obtained via cardiocentesis immediately prior to administration of the two treatment regimes and serum was frozen. A 4-mm punch biopsy was taken from the right triceps femoris muscle to induce an inflammatory response. Twenty-four hours later, a second blood sample was collected and serum was harvested and frozen. Serum PGE2 concentrations were measured using a commercial PGE2 enzyme assay (EIA) kit. Twenty-four hours following the biopsy, the mean circulating PGE2 levels of animals treated with meloxicam was 57.79 ± 12.35 pg/ml, which did not differ significantly from animals that were treated with saline (85.63 ± 17.55 pg/ml, P ≥ 0.05). The calculated means of the absolute change between the circulating baseline PGE2 levels and the postinjury circulating PGE2 levels were significantly lower in animals treated with meloxicam (13.11 ± 17.31 pg/ml) than in control animals treated with saline (46.14 ± 38.02 pg/ml) (P ≤ 0.05). These results suggest that the systemic administration of meloxicam at a dosage of 0.1 mg/kg once daily suppresses circulating serum PGE2 levels postinjury in the North American bullfrog.}, number={4}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Minter, Larry J. and Clarke, Elsburgh O. and Gjeltema, Jenessa L. and Archibald, Kate E. and Posner, Lysa P. and Lewbart, Gregory A.}, year={2011}, month={Dec}, pages={680–685} }
@article{minter_wood_hill_lewbart_2010, title={CYSTOSCOPIC GUIDED REMOVAL OF ECTOPIC EGGS FROM THE URINARY BLADDER OF THE FLORIDA COOTER TURTLE (PSEUDEMYS FLORIDANA FLORIDANA)}, volume={41}, ISSN={["1042-7260"]}, DOI={10.1638/2009-0196.1}, abstractNote={Abstract Three gravid, female, wild Florida cooter turtles (Pseudemys floridana floridana) were evaluated and treated by the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine Turtle Rescue Team as a result of traumatic injuries or infection. As part of medical management, oviposition was induced using oxytocin, which was only partially effective. In all three cases, ectopic eggs were subsequently identified in the urinary bladder by ultrasound and were successfully removed via a minimally invasive cystoscopic-guided technique. One of the three turtles died within several days of the procedure, and necropsy revealed granulomatous bacterial cystitis. It is hypothesized that these complications were likely due to the length of time between induction with oxytocin and the identification and removal of the ectopic egg.}, number={3}, journal={JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE}, author={Minter, Larry J. and Wood, Michael W. and Hill, Tracy L. and Lewbart, Gregory A.}, year={2010}, month={Sep}, pages={503–509} }
@article{minter_dombrowski_stoskopf_purnell_loomis_de voe, title={Hematology and plasma biochemical values for free ranging cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus) in central North Carolina, USA}, volume={8}, number={2}, journal={Herpetological Conservation and Biology}, author={Minter, L. J. and Dombrowski, D. S. and Stoskopf, M. K. and Purnell, C. A. and Loomis, M. R. and De Voe, R. S.}, pages={321–334} }