bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Somatostatin receptor subtype expression in the human heart: differential expression by myocytes and fibroblasts
Authors: Smith William H T , Nair R Unnikrishnan , Adamson Dawn , Kearney Mark T , Ball Stephen G , Balmforth Anthony J
Published: January 2006

In acromegaly, somatostatin receptor ligands (SRLs) can ameliorate left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and their use is associated with demonstrable improvements in various parameters of cardiac function. It remains unclear as to whether these beneficial effects are principally attributable to falling GH and IGF-I levels, or whether SRLs exert independent direct effects on the heart via somatostatin receptors. To help address this issue, we have sought to investigate somatostatin receptor expression in human heart. A human heart cDNA library was probed using PCR techniques to determine expression of somatostatin receptor subtypes. Subsequently, human heart biopsies and human cardiac fibroblasts and myocytes were analysed to determine whether expression differed between cardiac chambers or cell types. mRNAs for four of the five somatostatin receptor subtypes (sst1, sst2, sst4 and sst5) were shown to be co-expressed by the human heart. These receptors were present in both atrial and ventricular tissue. Human cardiac myocytes expressed mRNA for only sst1 and sst2, while human cardiac fibroblasts expressed all four subtypes found in whole heart tissue. The expression of functional somatostatin receptors on human cardiac fibroblasts was confirmed by mobilisation of intracellular calcium in response to somatostatin. The presence of cardiac somatostatin receptors raises the possibility of a direct effect of somatostatin analogues on the heart. Furthermore, the differential expression of somatostatin receptor subtypes by human cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts opens up the possibility of differential modulation of the cell types in the heart by subtype-specific somatostatin analogues.
Endocrine roles of d-aspartic acid in the testis of lizard Podarcis s. sicula
Authors: Raucci F , D’Aniello S , Di Fiore M M
Published: January 2006

In the lizard Podarcis s. sicula, a substantial amount of d-aspartate (d-Asp) is endogenous to the testis and shows cyclic changes of activity connected with sex hormone profiles during the annual reproductive phases. Testicular d-Asp content shows a direct correlation with testosterone titres and a reverse correlation with 17β-estradiol titres. In vivo experiments, consisting of i.p. injections of 2.0 μmol/g body weight of d-Asp or other amino acids, in lizards collected during the three main phases of the reproductive cycle (pre-reproductive, reproductive and post-reproductive period), revealed that the testis can specifically take up and accumulate d-Asp alone. Moreover, this amino acid influences the synthesis of testosterone and 17β-estradiol in all phases of the cycle. This phenomenon is particularly evident during the pre- and post-reproductive period, when endogenous testosterone levels observed in both testis and plasma were the lowest and 17β-estradiol concentrations were the highest. d-Asp rapidly induces a fall in 17β-estradiol and a rise in testosterone at 3 h post-injection in the testis and at 6 h post-injection in the blood. In vitro experiments show that testicular tissue converted l-Asp into d-Asp through an aspartate racemase. d-Asp synthesis was measured in all phases of the cycle, but was significantly higher during the reproductive period with a peak at pH 6.0. The exogenous d-Asp also induces a significant increase in the mitotic activity of the testis at 3 h (P<0.05) and at 6 h (P<0.01). Induction of spermatogenesis by d-Asp is recognized by an intense immunoreactivity of the germinal epithelium (spermatogonia and spermatids) for proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The effects of d-Asp on the testis appear to be specific since they were not seen in lizards injected with other d- or l-forms of amino acids with known excitatory effects on neurosecretion. Our results suggest a regulatory role for d-Asp in the steroido-genesis and spermatogenesis of the testis of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula.
Effects of decreased estradiol-17β on the serum and anterior pituitary IGF-I system in pigs
Authors: Hilleson-Gayne C K , Clapper J A
Published: January 2006

To further delineate the role of estradiol in the IGF system an experiment was conducted to determine the dosage of the aromatase inhibitor, anastrozole, needed to decreases serum concentrations of estradiol-17β (E2) in maturing boars. A second experiment was conducted to determine if administration of anastrozole to growing boars decreased serum concentrations of E2 and affected components of the serum and anterior pituitary gland (AP) IGF system vs untreated boars and barrows. In Experiment 1, 12 crossbred boars (292 days, 158 kg) were administered either 0, 1 or 10 mg/day anastrozole (n=4/group) beginning on day 1. Blood samples were collected every 7–14 days. Mean serum concentrations of E2 were decreased (P < 0·05) in the 10 mg group vs the 0 and 1 mg groups by day 36; however, no difference (P > 0·05) existed between the 0 and 1 mg groups. In Experiment 2, 24 crossbred boars and 12 barrows (101 days, 44 kg) were stratified by litter to one of three treatment groups (n=12): boars administered 10 mg/day anastrozole, boars administered 0 mg/day, and barrows administered 0 mg/day. Blood samples were collected and pigs were weighed on day 0 and every 14 days thereafter, then killed on day 84 when blood and APs were collected. The 10 mg/day pigs were fed the anastrozole-amended diet beginning on day 1. Mean serum concentrations of E2 did not differ (P > 0·05) between the 10 mg/day pigs and 0 mg/day pigs on day 0; however, on day 15 through to 84 mean serum concentrations of E2 were greater (P < 0·05) in 0 mg/day pigs than in the 10 mg/day pigs. Mean percentage increase in serum concentrations of IGF-I was greater (P < 0·05) in untreated boars than anastrozole-treated boars and barrows from day 58 through to 84. Mean percentage of basal IGF-I increased (P < 0·05) from day 29 through to 84 in untreated boars. Mean relative amounts of AP IGF-binding protein (IGFBP)-2 and -5 were less (P < 0·01) in 10 mg/day pigs than in the 0 mg/day pigs, but each was greater (P < 0·01) than in barrows administered 0 mg/day. These results indicate anastrozole administered at a dosage of 10 mg/day suppresses serum concentrations of E2 in pigs. Administration of anastrozole to boars reduced the percentage increase in serum concentrations of IGF-I and relative amounts of AP IGFBP-2 and -5. These data further support a role for E2 in regulating components of the IGF system in pigs.
Ghrelin against alendronate-induced gastric damage in rats
Authors: Íşeri S Ö , Şener G , Yüksel M , Contuk G , Çetinel Ş , Gedik N , Yeğen B Ç
Published: January 2006

Alendronate sodium, a primary amino bisphosphonate, is widely used in the treatment of various diseases that are associated with bone resorption, such as postmenopausal osteoporosis and Paget’s disease of bone. Although the adverse effects of biphosphonates on the gastrointestinal system have been demonstrated in experimental and clinical studies, the exact mechanisms underlying this damage are not clear yet. Ghrelin, a 28 amino acid peptide produced predominantly by the stomach, was shown to exert a potent protective action on the stomach of rats exposed to ethanol or stress.

Our objective was to evaluate the possible anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of ghrelin against alendronate-induced gastric damage. Wistar albino rats were administered alendronate (20 mg/kg) by gavage for 4 days, along with either ghrelin (10 ng/kg per day) or saline given i.p. After decapitation, stomach tissues were removed for the determination of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and tissue collagen content, while the extent of tissue damage was analyzed microscopically. Formation of reactive oxygen species was determined by chemiluminesence using a luminol probe in fresh gastric tissues. Serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and lactate dehydrogenase levels were assessed in trunk blood.

Oral administration of alendronate-induced significant gastric damage, accompanied by increased MPO activity, collagen content, MDA and luminol levels (P< 0.01–P< 0.001), while tissue GSH was decreased (P< 0.01). On the other hand, ghrelin treatment reversed these alterations (P< 0.05–P<0.001) as well as elevating serum TNF-α levels significantly (P< 0.001).

The findings of the present study suggest that alendronate induces oxidative gastric damage by a local irritant effect, and ghrelin ameliorates this damage by its possible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Performance of structural insulated panels
Authors: Kermani A.
Published: January 2006

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are gradually gaining popularity as an alternative construction material for residential and light commercial buildings in the UK. They show marked advantages in strength, thermal performance and speed of installation when compared with the traditional timber frame method of construction. While many types of composite panel building systems have been developed, panels made from a thick layer of foam (often expanded polystyrene) sandwiched between two layers of oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood are usually referred to as SIPs. They were developed in North America and although they have experienced wide-scale utilisation around the world, the concept is still relatively unknown in the UK. This paper details part of a comprehensive research study on SIPs at Napier University and deals with their performance under combined bending and axial compression and the effects of medium-term loading on panel integrity for use as load-bearing walls and columns. The results have illustrated that SIPs perform as an effective composite material possessing considerable strength and stiffness necessary to sustain required design loads.
Artificial neural network analysis of infilled planar frames
Authors: Bağci M. , Altintaş G.
Published: January 2006

In this study, infilled planar frames have been analysed using an artificial neural network. The data used were provided by a finite element model (FEM) in which nonlinearity of materials and the structural interface were taken into account under increasing lateral load. For the skeleton frame, the panel was modelled by a two-noded frame element and a four-noded isoparametric element respectively. The Von Mises failure criterion was used for the infill wall. Values obtained from FEM were used in training the network established. An artificial neural network (ANN) architecture was chosen in which a multilayer, feed-forward and back-propagation algorithm was used. The controls conducted in the test phase showed that training was satisfactory. The study has proved that the ANN could be successfully used for analysis of infilled planar frames.
A framework for objective structural frame selection
Authors: Soetanto R. , Dainty A. R. J. , Glass J. , Price A. D. F.
Published: January 2006

The choice of structural frame is fundamental to both the short- and long-term performance of a building. An objective and systematic selection process for facilitating the transparent consideration of decision criteria has, however, yet to be developed. This paper reports on the development of a framework that incorporates both ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ performance measures for selecting an appropriate structural frame. The framework requires a systematic evaluation of the importance of each criterion and the likely performance achieved by using various structural frame options. A worked example is provided to demonstrate how project teams can use this framework during the frame decision-making process. To investigate its practical utility, the framework was then tested within two case study projects. The participating engineers responded positively towards the use of multi-criteria for structural frame selection and expressed the view that the proposed framework fosters objective decision making. It is argued that the framework could lead to project teams making more transparent and appropriate frame selection in the future.
Analgesic effects of epidural administration of hydromorphone in horses
Authors: Natalini Cláudio C. , Linardi Renata L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effects of epidural administration of hydromorphone on avoidance threshold to noxious electrical stimulation of the perineal, sacral, lumbar, and thoracic regions in horses.

Animals—6 healthy adult horses.

Procedure—Horses were assigned to receive hydromorphone (0.04 mg/kg) or a control solution (20 mL of sterile water) administered epidurally into in the first intercoccygeal space. Treatments were administered at time intervals of ≥ 7 days. Electrical stimulation was applied for 6 hours after epidural injection over the dermatomes of the perineal, sacral, lumbar, and thoracic regions, and the avoidance threshold voltage was recorded.

Results—Administration of sterile water did not change the avoidance threshold. Hydromorphone significantly increased the avoidance threshold by 20 minutes after injection, which lasted until 250 minutes after epidural administration in the perineal, sacral, lumbar, and thoracic regions. Profound analgesia (avoidance threshold > 40 V) was achieved only in the perineal region at 60 minutes after epidural administration of hydromorphone. Analgesia for all dermatomes was considered moderate for 250 minutes after epidural injection.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Epidural administration of hydromorphone increases the avoidance threshold to noxious electrical stimulation in the perineal, lumbar, sacral, and thoracic regions in horses for 250 minutes after injection. Hydromorphone epidural administration may prove useful in the management of horses with pain of moderate to mild intensity.
Evaluation of the risk of motor neuron disease in horses fed a diet low in vitamin E and high in copper and iron
Authors: Divers Thomas J. , Cummings John E. , de Lahunta Alexander , Hintz Harold F. , Mohammed Hussni O.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether equine motor neuron disease (EMND) could be induced in adult horses fed a diet low in vitamin E and high in copper and iron.

Animals—59 healthy adult horses.

Procedure—Horses in the experimental group (n = 8) were confined to a dirt lot and fed a concentrate low in vitamin E and high in iron and copper in addition to free-choice grass hay that had been stored for 1 year. Control horses (n = 51) were fed a concentrate containing National Research Council–recommended amounts of copper, iron, and vitamin E. The hay fed to control horses was the same as that fed to experimental horses, but it had not been subjected to prolonged storage. Control horses had seasonal access to pasture, whereas experimental horses had no access to pasture. Horses that developed clinical signs of EMND were euthanatized along with an age-matched control horse to determine differences in hepatic concentrations of vitamin E, vitamin A, copper, iron, and selenium.

Results—4 experimental horses developed clinical signs of EMND. Plasma concentrations of vitamin E decreased in all 8 experimental horses. There were no significant changes in plasma concentrations of vitamin A, selenium, and copper or serum concentrations of ferritin. There were no significant differences in those analytes between experimental horses with EMND and experimental horses that did not develop EMND. No control horses developed EMND.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that lack of access to pasture, dietary deficiency of vitamin E, or excessive dietary copper are likely risk factors for EMND.
Expression of the PTEN tumor suppressor gene in malignant mammary gland tumors of dogs
Authors: Kanae Yutaka , Endoh Daiji , Yokota Hiroshi , Taniyama Hiroyuki , Hayashi Masanobu
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether changes in expression level of the phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on the chromosome 10 (PTEN) gene are associated with malignant transformation in mammary gland tumors in dogs.

Sample Population—Specimens of 5 benign and 8 malignant mammary gland tumors and 2 unaffected mammary glands from dogs.

Procedure—The open reading frame (ORF) sequence of PTEN gene in each specimen was analyzed via a direct-sequencing method; expression levels of PTEN gene were quantified via a competitive reverse transcription (RT)-PCR method.

Results—Compared with findings in clinically normal samples, amounts of PTEN mRNA were increased 2- to 4-fold in 4 of the 5 benign mammary gland tumor samples. In contrast, PTEN expression was remarkably low in 4 of the 8 malignant tumor samples (approx 12% to 37% of the level in unaffected mammary gland specimens). Gene amplification via the RT-PCR method with total RNA prepared from malignant tumor samples as a template yielded 3 bands that were smaller than the full-length ORF product of PTEN gene; in 2 of those 3 RT-PCR products, exons 6 and 7 or exons 3 to 8 were absent. No mutation was detected in the full-length ORF product of PTEN gene.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that a decreased level of PTEN gene expression (compared with unaffected mammary gland tissue) is associated with malignancy in canine mammary tumors. Analysis of PTENgene expression level in dogs with mammary gland tumors may provide useful prognostic information.
Cellular composition of bronchial brushings obtained from healthy dogs and dogs with chronic cough and cytologic composition of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid obtained from dogs with chronic cough
Authors: Hawkins Eleanor C. , Rogala Allison R. , Large Edward E. , Bradley Julie M. , Grindem Carol B.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether bronchial brushings from dogs with chronic cough have increased numbers of goblet cells and WBCs, compared with numbers for healthy dogs, or have differing WBC populations, compared with populations in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid obtained from dogs with chronic cough.

Animals—9 healthy dogs and 10 dogs with chronic cough.

Procedure—Specimens were collected by use of bronchoscopy. Cellular composition was determined for brushings, and results from dogs with chronic cough were compared with those from healthy dogs. Cellular composition of brushings was compared with composition of BAL obtained from dogs with chronic cough.

Results—Brushings from healthy dogs contained a median of 2.9 × 106 epithelial cells, comprising 100% epithelial cells (96% ciliated, 3% goblet, and 1% other) and no WBCs. Brushings from dogs with chronic cough had 4.5 × 106 epithelial cells, comprising 93% epithelial cells (86% ciliated, 2% goblet, and 12% other). Dogs with chronic cough had significantly greater percentages of WBCs (7%) and neutrophils (6%), compared with values for healthy dogs. Five dogs with chronic cough had no neutrophilic inflammation evident in BAL, but 4 of these had evidence of neutrophilic inflammation in brushings.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Neutrophils, but not goblet cells, were increased in brushings from dogs with chronic cough. Analysis of bronchial brushings provides information about airway inflammation that differs from that found by examination of BAL in some dogs with chronic cough and is a more sensitive indicator of airway inflammation than cytologic examination of BAL in these dogs.
Comparison of mesenteric lymphadenography performed via surgical and laparoscopic approaches in dogs
Authors: Brisson Brigitte A. , Holmberg David L. , House M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether injection of a mesenteric lymph node with iodinated aqueous contrast medium results in radiographic delineation of the thoracic duct and its branches, ascertain the ideal interval between injection and radiographic imaging, and evaluate mesenteric lymphadenography performed via laparoscopic and surgical approaches in dogs.

Animals—10 adult dogs.

Procedure—In each dog, a right paracostal laparotomy or a right laparoscopic approach was performed to identify a mesenteric lymph node for injection of an iodinated aqueous contrast agent (0.22 mL/kg [81.4 mg of iodine/kg]). Lateral radiographic views were obtained at 60, 120, 180, 240, and 300 seconds after injection.

Results—A mesenteric lymph node was identified and injected with contrast medium in each dog. Via paracostal laparotomy, lymph node injection resulted in successful lymphangiographic evaluation in 4 of 5 dogs, whereas via the laparoscopic approach, lymph node injection resulted in successful lymphangio-graphic evaluation in 2 of 5 dogs. In successful radiographic evaluations, injected lymph nodes, mesenteric lymphatics, and the thoracic duct and its branches were delineated. Radiographs obtained at 60 and 120 seconds after injection of contrast medium provided the most detail.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Injection of a mesenteric lymph node directly with contrast medium appears to be a feasible technique for delineation of the thoracic duct and its branches in dogs and might be useful in small animals in which mesenteric lymphatic catheterization can be difficult and lymphangiography is more likely to fail. Refinement of the laparoscopic technique may provide a minimally invasive approach to lymphadenography.
Use of a jugular vein graft in a modified Blalock-Taussig procedure in dogs
Authors: Pelosi Augusta , Eyster George E. , Déjardin Loïc M. , Kiupel Matti , Rees Jennifer L. , Richter Marlee A. , Olivier N. Bari
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether autologous jugular veins provide functional grafts with high 30-day patency rates in an experimental model of systemic-to-pulmonary shunting performed with a modified Blalock-Taussig procedure.

Animals—15 healthy Beagles.

Procedure—A segment of the left jugular vein was implanted between the left subclavian and pulmonary arteries. Echocardiograms were obtained prior to surgery, at day 4 to 7, and at day 30 after surgery. Selective angiograms were performed immediately after surgery and on day 30. Oximetric shunt calculations were made via terminal angiography prior to euthanasia. Gross and histologic evaluations of the grafts were conducted.

Results—Grafts were patent in 12 of 15 dogs 30 days after surgery as assessed via auscultation, color Doppler ultrasonography, angiography, and histologic examination. Echocardiographic analysis revealed compensatory eccentric left ventricular hypertrophy. Mean pulmonary-to-systemic flow ratio was 1.5:1. Histologic evidence of endothelialization of the anastomotic sites and vein graft arterialization was detectable at 30 days.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Autologous jugular vein grafts were effectively used to create a systemic-to-pulmonary shunt by use of a modified Blalock-Taussig procedure. High patency, ready accessibility, low cost, and theoretical adaptative remodeling during patient growth make autologous jugular vein grafts a valuable alternative to synthetic materials.
Effect of intravenous administration of ketamine on the minimum alveolar concentration of isoflurane in anesthetized dogs
Authors: Solano Adrian M. , Pypendop Bruno H. , Boscan Pedro L. , Ilkiw Jan E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effect of 6 plasma ketamine concentrations on the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of isoflurane in dogs.

Animals—6 dogs.

Procedure—In experiment 1, the MAC of isoflurane was measured in each dog and the pharmacokinetics of ketamine were determined in isoflurane-anesthetized dogs after IV administration of a bolus (3 mg/kg) of ketamine. In experiment 2, the same dogs were anesthetized with isoflurane in oxygen. A target-controlled IV infusion device was used to administer ketamine and to achieve plasma ketamine concentrations of 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 8, and 11 μg/mL by use of parameters obtained from experiment 1. The MAC of isoflurane was determined at each plasma ketamine concentration, and blood samples were collected for ketamine and norketamine concentration determination.

Results—Actual mean ± SD plasma ketamine concentrations were 1.07 ± 0.42 μg/mL, 1.62 ± 0.98 μg/mL, 3.32 ± 0.59 μg/mL, 4.92 ± 2.64 μg/mL, 13.03 ± 10.49 μg/mL, and 22.80 ± 25.56 μg/mL for target plasma concentrations of 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 8, and 11 μg/mL, respectively. At these plasma concentrations, isoflurane MAC was reduced by 10.89% to 39.48%, 26.77% to 43.74%, 25.24% to 84.89%, 44.34% to 78.16%, 69.62% to 92.31%, and 71.97% to 95.42%, respectively. The reduction in isoflurane MAC was significant, and the response had a linear and quadratic component. Salivation, regurgitation, mydriasis, increased body temperature, and spontaneous movements were some of the adverse effects associated with the high plasma ketamine concentrations.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Ketamine appears to have a potential role for balanced anesthesia in dogs. (Am J Vet Res 2006;67:21–25)
Comparison of hemodynamic, clinicopathologic, and gastrointestinal motility effects and recovery characteristics of anesthesia with isoflurane and halothane in horses undergoing arthroscopic surgery
Authors: Durongphongtorn Sumit , McDonell Wayne N. , Kerr Carolyn L. , Neto Francisco J. Teixeira , Mirakhur Kuldip K.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare hemodynamic, clinicopathologic, and gastrointestinal motility effects and recovery characteristics of halothane and isoflurane in horses undergoing arthroscopic surgery.

Animals—8 healthy adult horses.

Procedure—Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane or halothane (crossover study). At 6 intervals during anesthesia and surgery, cardiopulmonary variables and related derived values were recorded. Recovery from anesthesia was assessed; gastrointestinal tract motility was subjectively monitored for 72 hours after anesthesia. Horses were administered chromium, and fecal chromium concentration was used to assess intestinal transit time. Venous blood samples were collected for clinicopathologic analyses before and 2, 24, and 48 hours after anesthesia.

Results—Compared with halothane-anesthetized horses, cardiac index, oxygen delivery, and heart rate were higher and systemic vascular resistance was lower in isoflurane-anesthetized horses. Mean arterial blood pressure and the dobutamine dose required to maintain blood pressure were similar for both treatments. Duration and quality of recovery from anesthesia did not differ between treatments, although the recovery periods were somewhat shorter with isoflurane. After isoflurane anesthesia, gastrointestinal motility normalized earlier and intestinal transit time of chromium was shorter than that detected after halothane anesthesia. Compared with isoflurane, halothane was associated with increases in serum aspartate transaminase and glutamate dehydrogenase activities, but there were no other important differences in clinicopathologic variables between treatments.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Compared with halothane, isoflurane appears to be associated with better hemodynamic stability during anesthesia, less hepatic and muscle damage, and more rapid return of normal intestinal motility after anesthesia in horses undergoing arthroscopic procedures.
Effects of anatomic conformation on three-dimensional motion of the caudal lumbar and lumbosacral portions of the vertebral column of dogs
Authors: Benninger Monika I. , Seiler Gabriela S. , Robinson Leanne E. , Ferguson Stephen J. , Bonél Harald M. , Busato André R. , Lang Johann
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the association between the 3-dimensional (3-D) motion pattern of the caudal lumbar and lumbosacral portions of the canine vertebral column and the morphology of vertebrae, facet joints, and intervertebral disks.

Sample Population—Vertebral columns of 9 German Shepherd Dogs and 16 dogs of other breeds with similar body weights and body conditions.

Procedure—Different morphometric parameters of the vertebral column were assessed by computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging. Anatomic conformation and the 3-D motion pattern were compared, and correlation coefficients were calculated.

Results—Total range of motion for flexion and extension was mainly associated with the facet joint angle, the facet joint angle difference between levels of the vertebral column in the transverse plane on CT images, disk height, and lever arm length.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Motion is a complex process that is influenced by the entire 3-D conformation of the lumbar portion of the vertebral column. In vivo dynamic measurements of the 3-D motion pattern of the lumbar and lumbosacral portions of the vertebral column will be necessary to further assess biomechanics that could lead to disk degeneration in dogs.
Comparison of ultrasonographic characteristics of the thyroid gland in healthy small-, medium-, and large-breed dogs
Authors: Brömel Catharina , Pollard Rachel E. , Kass Philip H. , Samii Valerie F. , Davidson Autumn P. , Nelson Richard W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine ultrasonographic characteristics of the thyroid gland in healthy small-, medium-, and large-breed dogs and evaluate the relationships of thyroid gland size and volume with body weight and body surface area (BSA).

Animals—72 dogs of small (6 Toy and 6 Miniature Poodles), medium (12 Beagles), and large breeds (12 Akitas and 36 Golden Retrievers).

Procedure—Each dog's thyroid gland was examined ultrasonographically with a 10- to 5-MHz multifrequency linear-array transducer. Size, shape, echogenicity, and homogeneity of thyroid lobes were evaluated on longitudinal and transverse images. Thyroid lobe volume was estimated by use of the equation for an ellipsoid (π/6 [length × height × width]).

Results—Thyroid lobes appeared fusiform or elliptical on longitudinal images and triangular or round to oval on transverse images. In most dogs, thyroid lobes were hyperechoic or isoechoic, compared with surrounding musculature, and had a homogeneous echogenic pattern. Mean length, width, height, and volume of thyroid lobes were significantly greater in Akitas and Golden Retrievers, compared with findings in Beagles or Poodles; mean length, width, and height were significantly greater in Beagles, compared with findings in Poodles. Total thyroid gland volume correlated with body weight (r = 0.73) and BSA (r = 0.74).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Among the dog breeds examined ultrasonographically, thyroid lobe size and volume were more variable than shape, echogenicity, and homogeneity. The correlation of thyroid gland volume with BSA suggests that size of the dog, rather than breed, should be considered when assessing thyroid glands ultrasonographically.
Measurement of urinary 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 excretion in dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus
Authors: Baltzer Wendy I. , McMichael Maureen A. , Ruaux Craig G. , Noaker Laura , Steiner Jörg M. , Williams David A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To measure 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 (11-dTXB2) in urine of healthy control dogs, dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy, and dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) and assess the relationship between urinary 11-dTXB2 concentrations in dogs with GDV and postoperative outcomes.

Sample Population—Urine samples from 15 nonsurgical control dogs, 12 surgical control dogs, and 32 dogs with GVD.

Procedure—Urine samples were obtained from healthy pet dogs (ie, nonsurgical control dogs), dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy at anesthetic induction and 1 hour following surgery (ie, surgical control dogs), and dogs with GDV at hospital admission and 1 hour following surgical derotation of the stomach (ie, GDV dogs). Urinary 11-dTXB2 concentrations were determined with an ELISA and normalized to urinary creatinine (Cr) concentrations by calculation of the 11-dTXB2 -to-Cr ratio. Differences in median 11-dTXB2 -to-Cr ratios among dogs and before and after surgery were analyzed.

Results—Urinary 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratios did not differ between nonsurgical control dogs and surgical control dogs before or after surgery. Urinary 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratios were significantly higher in GDV dogs at the time of hospital admission and 1 hour after surgery, compared with those of nonsurgical control dogs. Postoperative urine samples from GDV dogs had significantly higher 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratios than postoperative urine samples from surgical control dogs. Median urinary 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratios increased significantly in GDV dogs that developed postoperative complications.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Urinary 11-dTXB2 concentration is increased in GDV dogs at the time of hospital admission and after surgical derotation of the stomach, compared with that of healthy dogs. An increased urinary 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratio following surgery is associated with an increased incidence of postoperative complications in dogs with GDV.
In vivo measurement of flatulence and nutrient digestibility in dogs fed poultry by-product meal, conventional soybean meal, and low-oligosaccharide low-phytate soybean meal
Authors: Yamka Ryan M. , Harmon David L. , Schoenherr William D. , Khoo Christina , Gross Kathy L. , Davidson Stephen J. , Joshi Dinesh K.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine an optimal window for determining peak flatulence and evaluate the effects of oligosaccharides and supplemental β-mannanase in soybean meal–based diets on nutrient availability and flatulence.

Animals—6 dogs.

Procedures—Dogs were used in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments in a 6 × 6 Latin square experiment to evaluate the digestibility, flatulence, and fecal odor metabolites of low-oligosaccharide low-phytate soybean meal (LLM), conventional soybean meal (SBM), and poultry by-product (PBP) meal diets with or without supplemental β-mannanase (5 g/kg).

Results—Enzyme supplementation had no effect on total tract dry matter (DM), nitrogen digestibility, or digestible energy; however, differences between protein sources did exist for total tract DM digestibility and digestible energy. The PBP meal had higher DM digestibility and digestible energy (mean, 0.913 and 4,255 cal/g), compared with soy-based diets (mean, 0.870 and 4,049 cal/g). No differences were detected for any treatment regardless of protein source or addition of supplemental enzyme for any flatulence components analyzed. No differences were detected for all fecal odor metabolites regardless of addition of supplemental enzyme; however, differences between protein sources were detected. The PBP meal had lower concentrations of carboxylic acids and esters and higher concentrations of heterocycles, phenols, thio and sulfides, ketones, alcohols, and indoles than LLM and SBM.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Diets containing < 22.4 g of stachyose/kg and < 2 g of raffinose/kg did not alter digestibility or increase flatulence in dogs.
Pyrantel pamoate resistance in horses receiving daily administration of pyrantel tartrate
Authors: Brazik Emily L. , Luquire Jan T. , Little Dianne
Published: January 2006

Case Descriptions—16 horses treated daily with pyrantel tartrate (2.64 mg/kg [1.2 mg/lb], PO) as part of a prophylactic anthelmintic program.

Clinical Findings—Fecal worm egg counts (FWECs) were obtained on all 16 horses. Mean FWEC was 478 eggs/g (epg; range, 0 to 4,075 epg). Three of the 16 horses were responsible for 85% of the total fecal egg output for the herd on the day of sampling. Six horses had FWECs < 200 epg. Three horses that had arrived within 4 months of the sampling date had FWECs < 100 epg.

Treatment and Outcome—An FWEC reduction test was initiated the day after FWECs were obtained; all horses with FWECs > 100 epg (9 horses) were treated with pyrantel pamoate (6.6 mg/kg [3 mg/lb], PO), and 14 days later, the FWEC was repeated. During the 14-day period, all horses received pyrantel tartrate (2.64 mg/kg, PO) daily. Fecal worm egg count reduction was calculated for each horse. Mean FWEC reduction for the group was 28.5% (range, increase of 21% in FWECs 14 days after treatment to a decrease of 100% in FWEC 14 days after treatment).

Clinical Relevance—Farms should be monitored for cyathostomes resistant to pyrantel pamoate prior to use of pyrantel tartrate. Fecal worm egg counts should be monitored routinely in horses before and after treatment to ensure efficacy of cyathostome control measures.
Lobomycosis in Atlantic bottlenose dolphins from the Indian River Lagoon, Florida
Authors: Reif John S. , Mazzoil Marilyn S. , McCulloch Stephen D. , Varela Rene A. , Goldstein Juli D. , Fair Patricia A. , Bossart Gregory D.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the prevalence of lobomycosis, a mycotic infection of dolphins and humans caused by a yeastlike organism (Lacazia loboi), among dolphins in the Indian River Lagoon in Florida.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—146 Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.

Procedure—Comprehensive health assessments of bottlenose dolphins in the Indian River Lagoon of Florida (n = 75) and in estuarine waters near Charleston, SC (71), were conducted during 2003 and 2004. Bottlenose dolphins were captured, examined, and released. Skin lesions were photographed and then biopsied. Tissue sections were stained with H&E and Gomori methenamine silver stains for identification of L loboi.

Results—9 of 30 (30%) dolphins captured in the southern portion of the Indian River Lagoon had lobomycosis, whereas none of the 45 dolphins captured in the northern portion of the lagoon or of the 71 dolphins captured near Charleston, SC, did. Affected dolphins had low serum alkaline phosphatase activities and high acute-phase protein concentrations.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that lobomycosis may be occurring in epidemic proportions among dolphins in the Indian River Lagoon. Localization of the disease to the southern portion of the lagoon, an area characterized by freshwater intrusion and lower salinity, suggests that exposure to environmental stressors may be contributing to the high prevalence of the disease, but specific factors are unknown. Because only dolphins and humans are naturally susceptible to infection, dolphins may represent a sentinel species for an emerging infectious disease.
Stress-related behaviors among horses used in a therapeutic riding program
Authors: Kaiser Lana , Heleski Camie R. , Siegford Janice , Smith Katharine Ann
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether therapeutic riding resulted in higher levels of stress or frustration for horses than did recreational riding and whether therapeutic riding with at-risk individuals was more stressful for the horses than was therapeutic riding with individuals with physical or emotional handicaps.

Design—Observational study.

Animals—14 horses in a therapeutic riding program.

Procedure—An ethogram of equine behaviors was created, and horses were observed while ridden by 5 groups of riders (recreational riders, physically handicapped riders, psychologically handicapped riders, atrisk children, and special education children). Number of stress-related behaviors (ears pinned back, head raised, head turned, head tossed, head shaken, head down, and defecation) was compared among groups.

Results—No significant differences in mean number of stress-related behaviors were found when horses were ridden by recreational riders, physically handicapped riders, psychologically handicapped riders, or special education children. However, mean number of stress-related behaviors was significantly higher when horses were ridden by the at-risk children.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that for horses in a therapeutic riding program, being ridden by physically or psychologically handicapped individuals is no more stressful for the horses than is being ridden in the same setting by recreational riders. However, at-risk children caused more stress to the horses, suggesting that the time horses are ridden by at-risk children should be limited both daily and weekly.
Inheritance of rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in Newfoundlands
Authors: Wilke Vicki L. , Conzemius Michael G. , Kinghorn Brian P. , Macrossan Paula E. , Cai Weiguo , Rothschild Max F.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine prevalence, level of inbreeding, heritability, and mode of inheritance for rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (RCCL) in Newfoundlands.

Design—Retrospective and recruitment study.

Animals—574 client-owned Newfoundlands.

Procedure—Medical records from January 1, 1996, to December 31, 2002, were evaluated for prevalence of RCCL. A pedigree was constructed by use of recruited Newfoundlands with RCCL status based on results of veterinary examination; level of inbreeding, heritability, and mode of inheritance were calculated.

Results—Hospital prevalence for RCCL was 22%; dogs in the pedigree from the recruitment study had a mean level of inbreeding of 1.19 × 10−4, heritability of 0.27, and a possible recessive mode of inheritance with 51% penetrance for RCCL.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Identification of a genetic basis for RCCL in Newfoundlands provided evidence that investigators can now focus on developing methods to identify carriers to reduce the prevalence of RCCL.
Evaluation of signs of postoperative pain and complications after forelimb onychectomy in cats receiving buprenorphine alone or with bupivacaine administered as a four-point regional nerve block
Authors: Curcio Keith , Bidwell Lori A. , Bohart George V. , Hauptman Joe G.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate signs of postoperative pain and complications after forelimb onychectomy in cats receiving buprenorphine alone or with bupivacaine administered as a 4-point regional nerve block.

Design—Prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial.

Animals—20 cats.

Procedure—All cats received buprenorphine (0.01 mg/kg [0.004 mg/lb], IM) preoperatively. One forelimb of each cat also received bupivacaine (1 mg/kg [0.45 mg/lb] of a 0.75% solution) administered as a 4-point regional nerve block. After onychectomy, discomfort (lameness, foot reaction, and pain) scores were evaluated by 2 experienced observers 2, 4, 6, 8, 24, and 168 hours postoperatively. Complication (hemorrhage, swelling, and infection) scores were evaluated 24 and 168 hours postoperatively. Surgeries were performed by 1 experienced veterinary surgeon. Rescue analgesia was provided if needed.

Results—6 cats required rescue analgesia postoperatively. There was no difference in discomfort or complication scores between control limbs and limbs in which a nerve block was administered. Additionally, there was no difference in discomfort and complication scores between cats that did or did not require rescue analgesia.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Bupivacaine administered as a 4-point regional nerve block in addition to a systemic analgesic did not decrease discomfort or complication scores in cats undergoing forelimb onychectomy.
Evaluation of clinical characteristics and bacterial isolates in dogs with bacterial keratitis: 97 cases (1993–2003)
Authors: Tolar Erica L. , Hendrix Diane V. H. , Rohrbach Barton W. , Plummer Caryn E. , Brooks Dennis E. , Gelatt Kirk N.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate clinical characteristics and breeds affected with bacterial keratitis and compare patterns of resistance in bacterial isolates over time in dogs.

Design—Retrospective cross-sectional study.

Animals—97 dogs with bacterial keratitis.

Procedure—Dogs with bacterial keratitis were identified from teaching hospital medical records at the Universities of Tennessee and Florida during the years 1993 to 2003. Data were collected pertaining to breed, Schirmer tear test results, treatments administered at the time of initial examination, bacterial species isolated, and resistance to selected antimicrobials.

Results—66% of the dogs were brachycephalic, 54% had tear production < 15 mm/min, and 29% were receiving a corticosteroid at the time of initial examination. The most common bacteria isolated were Staphylococcus intermedius (29%), β-hemolytic Streptococcus spp (17%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (21%). Staphylococcus intermedius isolates had limited resistance to certain antimicrobials. More than 80% of β-hemolytic Streptococcus spp isolates were resistant to neomycin, polymyxin B, and tobramycin. Isolates of P aeruginosa were susceptible to tobramycin and gentamicin and had limited resistance to ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin. Among bacterial species isolated, there was no evidence of development of antimicrobial resistance over time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Data suggested that administration of ciprofloxacin or a combination of a first-generation cephalosporin and tobramycin may be used in the treatment of bacterial keratitis while awaiting results of bacterial culture and susceptibility testing. Evidence suggests that current methods of medical management of bacterial keratitis are not associated with increased antimicrobial resistance.
Evaluation of the association between spondylosis deformans and clinical signs of intervertebral disk disease in dogs: 172 cases (1999–2000)
Authors: Levine Gwendolyn J. , Levine Jonathan M. , Walker Michael A. , Pool Roy R. , Fosgate Geoffrey T.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the association between spondylosis deformans and clinical signs of intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) in dogs.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—210 dogs.

Procedure—Records of 172 dogs with clinical signs of IVDD and 38 dogs with other neurologic disorders were reviewed. Signalment, sites of spondylosis, severity of associated osteophytosis, type of disk herniation, and duration of signs were recorded.

Results—Dogs with IVDD had significantly fewer sites of involvement and lower grades of spondylosis deformans, compared with those in the non-IVDD group. When groups were adjusted for age and weight via multivariate linear regression, there were no differences in severity of osteophytosis or number of affected sites. Dogs with type II disk disease had higher numbers of affected sites and more severe changes, compared with dogs with type I disk herniation. There was no difference between groups in the rate at which IVDD was diagnosed at sites of spondylosis, compared with the rate at which IVDD was diagnosed in unaffected disk spaces. Areas of spondylosis were closer to sites of IVDD that elicited clinical signs than to randomly chosen intervertebral spaces, and distances between sites of spondylosis and sites of IVDD had a bimodal appearance.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—An association may exist between radiographically apparent spondylosis and type II disk disease; type I disk disease was not associated with spondylosis. Spondylosis in radiographs of dogs with suspected type I disk disease is not clinically important. Spatial associations among sites of spondylosis and sites of IVDD may be coincidental or associated with vertebral column biomechanics.