bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomic analysis of differentially expressed proteins in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma tissues
Authors: Li Ning , Long Yunzhu , Fan Xuegong , Liu Hongbo , Li Cui , Chen Lizhang , Wang Zhiming
Published: August 2009

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a major cause of cancer death in China, is preceded by chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis (LC). Although hepatitis B virus (HBV) has been regarded as a clear etiology of human hepatocarcinogenesis, the mechanism is still needs to be further clarified. In this study, we used a proteomic approach to identify the differential expression protein profiles between HCC and the adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues.

Methods

Eighteen cases of HBV-related HCC including 12 cases of LC-developed HCC and 6 cases of chronic hepatitis B (CHB)-developed HCC were analyzed by two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) combined with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), and the results were compared to those of paired adjacent non-tumorous liver tissues.

Results

A total of 17 differentially expressed proteins with diverse biological functions were identified. Among these, 10 proteins were up-regulated, whereas the other 7 proteins were down-regulated in cancerous tissues. Two proteins, c-Jun N-terminal kinase 2 and ADP/ATP carrier protein were found to be up-regulated only in CHB-developed HCC tissues. Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2 and Rho-GTPase-activating protein 4 were down-regulated in LC-developed and CHB-developed HCC tissues, respectively. Although 11 out of these 17 proteins have been already described by previous studies, or are already known to be involved in hepatocarcinogenesis, this study revealed 6 new proteins differentially expressed in HBV-related HCC.

Conclusion

These findings elucidate that there are common features between CHB-developed HCC and LC-developed HCC. The identified proteins are valuable for studying the hepatocarcinogenesis, and may be potential diagnostic markers or therapeutic targets for HBV-related HCC.
Case Study of the Wind-Based Rural Electrification Project in Esilanke Primary School, Kenya
Authors: Bergès Baptiste
Published: August 2009

The ultimate goal of this study was to identify the barriers to the widespread development of wind-based electrification projects in rural Kenya and to contribute to the assessment of their technical suitability, affordability and financial viability. The study is based on the analysis of the electrification of Esilanke primary school. The key conclusions are: 1) the most critical barrier is the concentration of the technical expertise, technology suppliers and sales force in Nairobi area which affects negatively the project cost and sustainability in remote areas; 2) despite high upfront costs, the capacity of SWTs for producing large amounts of energy is a major asset for social development and income generating activities. The study also highlights how much the development of a supply chain for wind technology and services is crucial for structuring small wind energy activity in Kenya as a viable and self-growing business.
Small Scale Wind Energy Market and Institutional Model for Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Rakesh Yogal
Published: August 2009

Nepal is a non-urbanized country consisting of 3,915 Village Development Committees (VDCs), 3 ecological regions, 5 developmental regions, fourteen zones and seventy five districts. In Nepal, the demand for energy for various users is increasing with the increase in population and need for the self-employment. Various efforts have been made in Nepal over the past two decades to harness electrical power from the wind. For particular locations and applications wind turbines may be the most economical option for providing electricity. Despite this fact, several bad experiences with wind turbines and a lack of comprehensive wind data for Nepal have kept wind turbines largely absent from the Nepalese landscape. The intent of this paper is to discuss the small scale wind energy market in Nepal, the contributing key factors in sustainable scaling up of the system and describing key actors' role in institutional framework for the sustainable future. A method is introduced for demand side analysis, market, institutional framework and supply chain audit. The prime criteria for selection of study sites were wind potential area, proximity to a road head and the minimum possibility of connection of national electricity grid within a 10 year period. For the purpose of selecting the exact location or the study area, the study team had visited 11 different locations. Out of 11, only 7 study areas, 430 households were identified as technically, socially and economically feasible for promoting the small scale wind energy system. The study includes both primary and secondary data/information. The primary source includes direct visit at study area. Participatory Rural Appraisal, Focus Group Discussion, Key Informant Interview and Household Survey were executed in order to get the primary level data/information.
Strength and Reliability of Wood for the Components of Low-Cost Wind Turbines: Computational and Experimental Analysis and Applications
Authors: Mishnaevsky Leon , Freere Peter , Sharma Ranjan , Brøndsted Povl , Qing Hai , Bech Jakob I. , Sinha Rakesh , Acharya Parash , Evans Robert
Published: August 2009

This paper reports the latest results of the comprehensive program of experimental and computational analysis of strength and reliability of wooden parts of low cost wind turbines. The possibilities of prediction of strength and reliability of different types of wood are studied in the series of experiments and computational investigations. Low cost testing machines have been designed, and employed for the systematic analysis of different sorts of Nepali wood, to be used for the wind turbine construction. At the same time, computational micromechanical models of deformation and strength of wood are developed, which should provide the basis for microstructure-based correlating of observable and service properties of wood. Some correlations between microstructure, strength and service properties of wood have been established.
The Stern Review on Climate Change: Inconvenient Sensitivities
Authors: Mityakov Sergey , Rühl Christof
Published: August 2009

Nicholas Stern's Review of “The Economics of Climate Change” (2007) triggered considerable discussion, essentially by condensing a complex problem – the question of how to act in the face of global warming – into juxtaposing two numbers, the cost of mitigation and the cost of climate change. The Review concludes that mitigation today is economically superior to adaptation tomorrow. The review was widely criticized for the assumption of a pure rate of time preference of almost zero, on which its conclusions seemed to depend. In this paper we argue first, that this assumption discriminates against current in favour of future generations. Second, we perform a sensitivity analysis to test for the extent to which the conclusions of the Review are indeed based on the assumption of a rate of time preference of almost zero. We demonstrate that the conclusions of the Review are no longer valid as soon as parameter values are used which are standard in economic analysis. Combined, these results raise a bigger question: how wise is it to base crucial policy choices on a model so dependent on a single, deeply subjective, judgement call?
Prediction of Wind Turbine Noise and Validation against Experiment
Authors: Oerlemans S. , Schepers J. G.
Published: August 2009

A semi-empirical prediction method for trailing edge noise is applied to calculate the noise from two modern large wind turbines. The prediction code only needs the blade geometry and the turbine operating conditions as input. Using detailed acoustic array and directivity measurements, a thorough validation of the predictions is carried out. The predicted noise source distribution in the rotor plane (as a function of frequency and observer position) shows the same characteristics as in the experiments: due to trailing edge noise directivity and convective amplification, practically all noise (emitted to the ground) is produced during the downward movement of the blades, causing an amplitude modulation of broadband aerodynamic blade noise at the blade passing frequency (‘swish’). Good agreement is also found between the measured and predicted spectra, in terms of levels and spectral shape. For both turbines, the deviation between predicted and measured overall sound levels (as a function of rotor power) is less than 1–2 dB, which is smaller than the scatter in the experimental data. Using a smoothed analytical trailing edge noise directivity function, the turbine noise directivity is predicted within 1–2 dB, and the swish amplitude in different directions within 1 dB. This semi-empirical directivity function shows similar characteristics as the theoretical directivity function for a flat plate, except for regions close to the plane of the blade. The validated prediction code is then applied to calculate noise footprints of the wind turbine as a function of rotor azimuth. These footprints show that for cross-wind directions the average level is lower than in the up- and downwind directions, but the variation in level is larger. Even at large distance, swish amplitudes up to 5 dB can be expected for cross-wind directions.
Unstructured Grid Solution of the Eikonal Equation for Acoustics
Authors: Tucker Paul G. , Karabasov Sergey A.
Published: August 2009

An acoustic eikonal equation solution procedure, that is easy to implement in unstructured grid Navier-Stokes equation flow solvers, is outlined. The approach is readily parallelizable. The method is tested for the following canonical point source cases: quiescent flow; subsonic uniform flow; supersonic uniform flow and an idealized jet flow. Then, as further validation, sound propagation of a wave front through a viscous vortex is considered. For these cases, encouraging agreement is found with analytic data and a high-fidelity numerical solution of the Euler equations. Finally, as demonstration cases, the use of the approach to study the shielding of noise from a planar jet is considered along with wave propagation in a complex three-dimensional geometry. At lower Mach numbers (< 0.25), for complex geometries, robust multigrid convergence acceleration is found.
Added Sound Sources in Jets; Theory and Simulation
Authors: Spalart Philippe R. , Shur Michael L. , Strelets Michael Kh.
Published: August 2009

The Large-Eddy Simulation (LES) system established over the last six years is reviewed in terms of its progress in accuracy and transition physics, and is then used to explore the transmission of noise from a known local source through a turbulent region, here the shear layer of a jet. For this, weak artificial monopole sources are added to an LES, and their sound tracked in detail both in the near-field and far-field. Sources are placed in the potential cores of the primary and secondary streams, as well as in the mixing layer and outside the jet with various locations relative to the observer, and different frequencies. Simple Ray Acoustics theory based on the mean flow field and assuming full conservation of wave action via the Blokhintsev equation is quite successful, both in terms of wave-fronts and sound level, even at a diameter Strouhal number St of only 0.5. The principal difference is that LES predicts a gradual cone of silence upstream, which theory does not. The abrupt downstream cones of silence agree. Thus, even crossing a mixing layer with a Mach 0.9 difference does not appear to alter the sound much. Cases with a dual nozzle and hot core stream return similar findings. This will be helpful when creating lower-order prediction tools, and correcting noise measurements made outside a co-flow.
Messenger RNA processing in Methanocaldococcus (Methanococcus) jannaschii
Authors: Zhang Jian , Olsen Gary J.
Published: August 2009

Messenger RNA (mRNA) processing plays important roles in gene expression in all domains of life. A number of cases of mRNA cleavage have been documented in Archaea, but available data are fragmentary. We have examined RNAs present in Methanocaldococcus (Methanococcus) jannaschii for evidence of RNA processing upstream of protein-coding genes. Of 123 regions covered by the data, 31 were found to be processed, with 30 including a cleavage site 12–16 nucleotides upstream of the corresponding translation start site. Analyses with 3′-RACE (rapid amplification of cDNA ends) and 5′-RACE indicate that the processing is endonucleolytic. Analyses of the sequences surrounding the processing sites for functional sites, sequence motifs, or potential RNA secondary structure elements did not reveal any recurring features except for an AUG translation start codon and (in most cases) a ribosome binding site. These properties differ from those of all previously described mRNA processing systems. Our data suggest that the processing alters the representation of various genes in the RNA pool and therefore, may play a significant role in defining the balance of proteins in the cell.
Cretaceous paleogeography, paleoclimatology, and amniote biogeography of the low and mid-latitude South Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Jacobs Louis L. , Mateus Octávio , Polcyn Michael J. , Schulp Anne S. , Scotese Christopher R. , Goswami Argyha , Ferguson Kurt M. , Robbins John A. , Vineyard Diana P. , Buto Neto André
Published: September 2009

The Cretaceous tropical Atlantic Ocean was the setting for an initial tectonically controlled late Aptian shallow water (≤ 300 m) connection between the northern and southern portions of the Atlantic, followed by a deep-water connection by the Turonian. Ocean currents changed with deepening of the South Atlantic and progressive widening of the Equatorial Atlantic Gateway. Aptian evaporite deposition came to a halt. The Albian-Turonian interval includes a trend toward increasing sea level and was characterized by globally warm sea surface temperatures. Productive areas of coastal upwelling led to the deposition of organic-rich sediments varying in position along the African coast with time, culminating in the Benguela Upwelling that commenced in the Miocene. The drift of Africa in the Late Cretaceous indicates that throughout most of this period, the coastal area around the fossil locality of Iembe, north of Luanda, Angola, lay in arid latitudes (15o S to 30o S), which are generally characterized by sparse vegetation. This presumption is consistent with the utter lack of macroscopic terrestrial plant debris washed into near shore sedimentary environments and indicates that organic rich marine shales have a minimal terrestrial carbon component. The connection of the North and South Atlantic oceans severed a direct terrestrial dispersal route between South America and Africa, but opened a north-south dispersal route for marine amniotes. This seaway was used by late Turonian mosasaurs and sea turtles as evidenced by Angolasaurus and a new turtle taxon close to Sandownia, both found at Iembe and derived from northern clades. The presence of a sauropod in late Turonian sediments, also from Iembe, suggests that this animal was tolerant of warm, arid conditions as the desert elephants of Namibia are today. Further, it suggests that the waning terrestrial dispersal route between South America and Africa was situated in a region where high temperature, low rainfall, and sparse vegetation would be expected to restrict the movement of more mesic and ecologically sensitive species.
Ratio Estimators For The Population Variance In The Simple Random Sampling
Authors: Cingi Hulya , Kadilar Cem
Published: August 2009

The estimation of the population variance from a sample is also a popular topic for
Statisticians as the estimation of the population mean. Therefore, in Chapter 2, the estimators on
this topic such as Hirano, Isaki, Prasad – Singh, and Garcia – Cebrain are examined in detail
deriving the MSE equations of these estimators. In these derivations, it is worth mentioning that
the variance and the covariance functions for estimators of the population variance are very
complicated so in this chapter these functions are explained in a clear way to understand how to
get the MSE equations. The efficiency conditions for these estimators are also obtained and the
application supports these theoretical findings.
Chain Estimators In The Simple Random Sampling
Authors: Cingi Hulya , Kadilar Cem
Published: August 2009

Some authors try to use the same type of estimator more than once to find the
estimate of the population parameter. In literature, these estimators are called chain estimators.
Statisticians see that the estimator having the power of alpha gets more efficient than the
estimators without power. By this realization, popularity of the chain estimators has increased.
In Chapter 4, the studies on this kind of estimators are reviewed such as Srivastava (1967), Rao
(1991), Garcia and Cebrain (1996), Kadilar and Cingi (2003), Abu Dayeh et al. (2003), Chandra
and Singh (2005), Turgut and Cingi (2008).
Estimators In The Ranked Set Sampling
Authors: Cingi Hulya , Kadilar Cem
Published: August 2009

Ranked Set Sampling (RSS) is an alternative design of the Simple Random Sampling.
The RSS design has some advantages according the Simple Random Sampling. For example, by
this design, efficient estimates can be obtained using less data in the sample. In Chapter 5, the
usage of this practical design is explained and some basic estimators are examined in RSS. In
addition, the ratio and the regression estimators are also studied for this design. By a problem
given in this chapter, the readers can understand how to apply the RSS design to the data and the
estimation stage completely.
References
Authors: Hulya Cingi  , Cem Kadilar
Published: August 2009

Full text available
Contributors
Authors: Hulya Cingi  , Cem Kadilar
Published: August 2009

Full text available
Chapter 3 Finite Difference Method
Authors: Stys Tadeusz
Published: August 2009

Two techniques of analysis of convergence and the global error estimates have been
developed. The first technique is based on the discrete maximum principle to prove uniform con-
vergence of finite difference methods for elliptic and parabolic equations. The second technique
draws on spectral analysis and deals with average convergence in the discrete Hilbert’s space H. The
chapter ends with a set of questions.
Chapter 6 Hyperbolic Equations
Authors: Stys Tadeusz
Published: August 2009

In chapter 6, the finite difference scheme with weight 0 ≤ σ ≤ 1 has been built for the
wave equation with initial boundary value conditions. It is proved that the scheme is convergent and
the global error estimate is given. The scheme with weight σ is solved by the method of separation
of variables. The Mathematica module waveEqn is designed and applied to initial boundary value
problems for the wave equation. In the last section, the wave equation is solved by the method of
lines. The chapter ends with a set of questions.
References
Authors: Stys Tadeusz
Published: August 2009

Full text available
List of Mathematica Modulae
Authors: STYS Tadeusz
Published: August 2009

Full text available
Biomass Gasification in Supercritical Water -- A Review
Authors: Basu Prabir , Mettanant Vichuda
Published: August 2009

Supercritical water possesses a number of important characteristics that make it suitable for oxidation, synthesis and gasification reactions. It is especially advantageous for very wet biomass whose gasification in this medium avoids the large expense of energy required for drying. Although the process is in laboratory scale it has a great potential for production of hydrogen and other gases from biomass. This paper reviews the present state of the art and summarizes major observations arrived at in small scale laboratory flow and batch reactors. Effects of operating parameters like, pressure, temperature, etc., on the yield and conversion are discussed. Catalysts appear to play an important role in increasing the conversion rate and decreasing the reaction temperature for gasification. Heat recovery from the product stream holds key to making the gasification process auto-thermal. Heat exchanger efficiency, therefore, plays an important role in this process. Several investigators have used the equilibrium model and exergy analysis for thermodynamic analysis of supercritical gasification plants. Energy efficiency of such a plant could be around 50%.
Disulfoxide Ligands in Rhodium Catalyzed Asymmetric 1,4-Addition: First Studies and Future Directions
Authors: Mariz Ronaldo , Bürgi Justus , Gatti Michele , Drinkel Emma , Luan Xinjun , Dorta Reto
Published: August 2009

Disulfoxides with atropisomeric backbones are introduced as readily available chiral ligands for the rhodium-catalyzed 1,4-addition of arylboronic acids to unsaturated carbonyl compounds. The ligands are obtained in pure form from either commercially available or easily synthesized
starting materials. Precatalysts with general formula {(disulfoxide)RhCl}2 were prepared in high yield and were fully characterized. Preliminary results on the influence of steric and electronic modifications of the ligand structure and their impact on the catalytic behavior are
presented.
Report on the Latsis Symposium 'Intramolecular Dynamics, Symmetry and Spectroscopy'
Authors: Tanner Carine Manca , Seyfang Georg , Merkt Frédéric
Published: August 2009

We provide here a short review of the Latsis symposium 'Intramolecular Dynamics, Symmetry and Spectroscopy' which took place at the ETH Zürich, Hönggerberg Campus, September 6–10, 2008. The goal of the meeting was to review recent progress in spectroscopy and intramolecular
dynamics. A balanced mix of speakers covering theory, experiments and applications reviewed the latest developments and provided new impulses and ideas in this multidisciplinary field.
Key Performance Indicators for Chemical Plants
Authors: Barblan Men , Mollet Daniel
Published: August 2009

Knowing the adiabatic temperature rise can improve safety in chemical processes in case of cooling failure. This study shows firstly how the temperature rise can be calculated online according to a mass and energy balance and secondly that the required accuracy of the desired values
can only be attained by having additional temperature sensors.
Equine laminitis: Ultrastructural lesions detected in ponies following hyperinsulinaemia
Authors: NOURIAN A. R. , ASPLIN K. E. , MCGOWAN C. M. , SILLENCE M. N. , POLLITT C. C.
Published: August 2009

Reasons for performing study: Anatomical changes in the hoof lamellar tissue induced by prolonged hyperinsulinaemia have not been described previously. Analysis of the induced lesions may promote understanding of hyperinsulinaemic laminitis pathogenesis and produce clinical benefit.

Objectives: To use light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to document hoof lamellar lesions in ponies clinically lame after prolonged hyperinsulinaemia.

Methods: Nine clinically normal, mature ponies were allocated randomly to either a treatment group (n = 5) or control group (n = 4). The treatment group received insulin via a modified, prolonged euglycaemic hyperinsulinaemic clamp technique (EHCT) and were subjected to euthanasia when clinical signs of Obelgrade IIlaminitis occurred. The control group was sham treated with an equivalent volume of 0.9% saline and killed at 72 h. Lamellar tissues of the right front feet were harvested and processed for TEM.

Results: Lamellae from insulin treated ponies were attenuated and elongated with many epidermal basal cells (EBC) in mitosis. Unlike carbohydrate induced laminitis in horses there was no global separation at the lamellar dermal/epidermal interface among ponies. Sporadic EBC basement membrane (BM) separation was associated with the proximity of infiltrating leucocytes. In 2 ponies, the lamellar BM was thickened. The number of hemidesmosomes/μm of BM was decreased in all insulin treated ponies.

Conclusions: Prolonged hyperinsulinaemia causes unique lamellar lesions normally characteristic of acute and chronic laminitis. Lamellar proliferation may be an insulin effect through its mitogenic pathway. Aberrant lamellar mitosis may lengthen and weaken the lamellar, distal phalanx attachment apparatus and contribute to the clinical signs that developed.

Potential relevance: The study shows that insulin alone, in higher than normal circulating concentrations, induces profound, changes in lamellar anatomy. Medical control of insulin resistance and hyperinsulinaemia may ameliorate lesions and produce clinical benefit.
Development of a novel equine whole transcript oligonucleotide GeneChip microarray and its use in gene expression profiling of normal articular‐epiphyseal cartilage
Authors: GLÄSER K. E. , SUN Q. , WELLS M. T. , NIXON A. J.
Published: August 2009

Reasons for performing study: No large scale equine microarray is available commercially to allow genomic and transcriptional profiling of the majority of genes that would define the genetic basis of equine disease.

Objectives: To generate a whole transcript target labelled GeneChip to interrogate the equine transcriptome and validate chip performance using RNA samples derived from organs, articular cells and normal cartilage.

Methods: Equine mRNA and selected equine gene sequences derived from perfect cross‐hybridisation of equine RNA on human microarray GeneChips, were used to design a custom equine gene microarray. Sequence data were used as a template for generation of a glass‐slide based 5′‐3′ multiexon‐encompassing gene chip. The microarray was characterised using RNA derived from organs including spleen, liver, brain and kidney, and RNA from cultured chondrocytes, cartilage, synovial tissue and stem cells, employing a whole transcript target labelling assay to sample mRNA across the 5′‐3′ spectrum.

Results: The custom microarray simultaneously interrogated over 12,300 equine specific genes. Probing the chip with mixtures of total RNA derived from parenchymatous organs and articular tissues resulted in 61.7 and 62.8% present calls, respectively. This gene chip provided expression information on up to 90% of the key molecules in important signalling, metabolic and development pathways. Cartilage specific matrix genes were abundantly expressed in normal articular cartilage, but surprisingly high levels of collagentypes I, III, VandXI, reflected expression from the epiphyseal layers of maturing articular epiphyseal cartilage.

Conclusion: An oligonucleotide microarray with over 12,300 probe sets was generated by uniquely combining a labelling strategy incorporating expressed sequence tags from the entire transcriptome and supplementing selected human sequences that cross‐hybridised with the horse. Validation showed robust performance of the microarray.

Potential relevance: This array may be a useful tool to elucidate the pathogenesis of equine diseases.
Effect of a feed/fast protocol on pH in the proximal equine stomach
Authors: HUSTED L. , SANCHEZ L. C. , BAPTISTE K. E. , OLSEN S. N.
Published: August 2009

Reasons for performing study: Risk factors for the development of gastric squamous ulcers include various management procedures, such as intermittent feed deprivation that can occur during weight management regimens or stall and dry lot confinement.

Objectives: To investigate the effect of intermittent feed deprivation relative to continuous feed intake on proximal intragastric pH, specifically in the region of the squamous mucosa of the lesser curvature.

Methods: In 6 horses, pH electrodes were placed just inside of the oesophageal sphincter in the stomach for each of two 72 h protocols (A and B) in a randomised, cross‐over design.Protocol Aconsisted of 12 h fed, 12 h fasted, 24 h fed and 24 h fasted, in sequence.Protocol Bconsisted of 72 h fed. During the fed periods of each protocol, horses hadad libitumaccess to coastal Bermuda hay and were fed sweet feed (1 kg, b.i.d.). Horses hadad libitumaccess to water at all times.

Results: Proximal intragastric pH was significantly lower duringprotocol A, than duringprotocol B.However, hourly mean pH was significantly different only during the day and evening hours between protocols. Duringprotocol B, mean proximal pH decreased significantly from 03.00 to 09.00 compared to 19.00 to 23.00 h. A moderate positive correlation of hay intake vs. proximal gastric pH could be established.

Conclusions: Intermittent feed deprivation decreased proximal gastric pH in horses relative to those horses for which feed was not restricted. However, the effect was only significant when fasting occurred during the day and evening hours, as a nocturnal decrease in pH occurred simultaneously in the fed horses.

Potential relevance: Episodes of daytime feed deprivation should be avoided if possible, as proximal gastric acid exposure rapidly increases during such events.
Long‐term prognosis of gastrojejunostomy in foals with gastric outflow obstruction: 16 cases (2001–2006)
Authors: COLEMAN M. C. , SLOVIS N. M. , HUNT R. J.
Published: August 2009

Reasons for performing study: It has been suggested that the success of gastric bypass surgery in foals for the treatment of gastric outflow obstruction is poor. However, few reports exist evaluating the long‐term prognosis of these cases.

Objectives: To determine the long‐term success of foals, including racing records, surgically treated for gastric outflow obstruction secondary to gastroduodenal ulceration.

Methods: Medical records of foals undergoing surgical treatment of gastric outflow obstruction secondary to gastroduodenal ulceration were evaluated for clinical information. Owners, trainers and race records were evaluated regarding long‐term survival and racing success.

Results and conclusions: Sixteen foals were included in the study, all treated with a gastrojejunostomy. All foals survived to immediate discharge from the hospital; 8 survived to racing age, with 7 of those entering training and 3 actually racing. Foals that did not survive to racing age had various post operative complications. The success rate for these foals appears somewhat better than that previously reported.

Potential relevance: Gastrojejunostomy for the treatment of gastric outflow obstruction, secondary to gastric ulceration, is a valid treatment option for foals.
Validation of a transendoscopic glandular and nonglandular gastric biopsy technique in horses
Authors: RODRIGUES N. L. F. , DORÉ M. , DOUCET M. Y.
Published: August 2009

Reasons for performing study: In order to study the evolution of histopathological and immunohistochemical changes in the gastric mucosa of horses with EGUS (equine gastric ulcer syndrome), a feasible, useful, valid and safein vivogastric biopsy technique is required.

Objectives: To determine the average gastric mucosal healing time following endoscopic gastric biopsy sampling, and evaluate the feasibility, safety and usefulness of samples obtained by this method for histopathological analysis.

Methods: Six mature mares from the Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire research herd were used. Transendoscopic gastric biopsy was performed on Days 0 and 9 using a flexible forceps with oval and fenestrated jaws to obtain gastric mucosal samples from 4 different sites:cardia(C),fundus(F),margo plicatus(MP) and glandular mucosa (GL). A maximum of 4 samples per site was taken and processed routinely for histopathology, evaluated by a pathologist. On Days 1–4 and 9–11 the lesions created by the biopsies were evaluated by gastroscopy. Lesions were evaluated over time based on a score from 0–4, where 4 was the most severe.

Results: Biopsy samples could be obtained from all targeted sites except C. No abnormal clinical signs were observed up to 7 days post biopsy. The average biopsy lesion scores decreased significantly with time for all sites. The average lesion score was significantly higher for the MP compared to the other sites at Days 1 and 2. Samples taken from the nonglandular portion of the stomach were considered inadequate for histopathology, while those taken from the glandular mucosa were adequate.

Conclusion: The transendoscopic gastric biopsy technique described here is a feasible, safe and useful technique for obtaining samples from the equine gastric glandular mucosa. Although biopsy samples could be obtained from several areas in the nonglandular mucosa, these were very small, took longer to heal and were not considered adequate for histopathological evaluation, and another technique should therefore be validated.
Low quality of evidence for glucosamine‐based nutraceuticals in equine joint disease: Review ofin vivostudies
Authors: PEARSON W. , LINDINGER M.
Published: August 2009

Nutraceuticals are increasingly applied to the management of equine arthritis and joint disease, particularly those based upon glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate. While the first report of using glucosamine in horses appeared more than 25 years ago, it was not until 1992 that isolated studies began to be reported. Since that time, 15in vivopapers have been published in the equine literature, usually on products already commercially available and often seeking evidence for efficacy. These studies demonstrate an encouraging trend to manufacturers of these products investing in research, but most do not meet a quality standard that provides sufficient confidence in the results reported. This review discusses the entirety of publishedin vivoresearch on glucosamine‐based nutraceuticals (GBN) for horses, including that on Cosequin, Cortaflex, Synequin, Sasha's EQ, Myristol, chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine sulphate and glucosamine hydrochloride; and considers experimental limitations of this research along with their impact on interpretation of results. A quality score was calculated for each paper according to preset quality criteria. A minimum quality standard of 60% was set as the threshold for confidence in interpretation of results. Of the 15 papers reviewed, only 3 met the minimum quality standard. Experimental limitations of each research paper are discussed. It is concluded that the quality of studies in this area is generally low, prohibiting meaningful interpretation of the reported results. New high quality research on GBN for horses is needed and recommendations for future research are discussed.
In vivoeffects of meloxicam on inflammatory mediators, MMP activity and cartilage biomarkers in equine joints with acute synovitis
Authors: de GRAUW J. C. , van de LEST C. H. A. , BRAMA P. A. J. , RAMBAGS B. P. B. , van WEEREN P. R.
Published: August 2009

Reasons for performing study: Meloxicam is a commonly used nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug in equine practice, but little is known about itsin vivoeffects on joint inflammation and cartilage turnover.

Objectives: To study the effects of meloxicam on biomarkers of inflammation, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, and cartilage biomarkers in joints with experimental synovitis.

Methods: In a 2‐period cross‐over study, synovitis was induced at T = 0 h in the L or R intercarpal joint of 6 horses by intraarticular injection of 0.5 ng lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Horses received once daily meloxicam (0.6 mg/kg bwtper os) or placebo starting at post injection hour (PIH) 2, and clinical evaluations as well as blood and synovial fluid (SF) sampling were performed at PIH 0, 8, 24 and 168. Synovial fluid was analysed for prostaglandin E2, bradykinin, substance P, general MMP activity, glycosaminoglycans (GAG), CS846 epitope,type IIcollagen cleavage fragments (C2C) andtype IIcollagen carboxypropeptide (CPII). Concentrations in meloxicam‐ vs. placebo‐treated joints over time were compared using a linear mixed model.

Results: Lipopolysaccharide injection caused marked transient synovitis without systemic effects. Meloxicam caused a significant reduction in lameness at PIH 8 and 24 and tended to reduce effusion. In addition, meloxicam significantly suppressed SF prostaglandin E2and substance P release at PIH 8 and bradykinin at PIH 24 compared to placebo treatment. General MMP activity at PIH 8 and 24 was significantly lower in meloxicam‐ vs. placebo‐treated joints, as were GAG, C2C and CPII concentrations at PIH 24.

Conclusions: Acute transient synovitis leads to substantial increases in SF biomarkers of inflammation, MMP activity and cartilage turnover, which can be significantly suppressed by meloxicam.

Potential relevance: Early oral treatment with meloxicam ameliorates not only clinical signs and joint inflammation in acute synovitis, but may also limit inflammation‐induced cartilage catabolism.
Clinical trial of efficacy of ivermectin pour‐on against gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes in silvopasturing horses
Authors: FRANCISCO I. , SÁNCHEZ J. A. , CORTIÑAS F. J. , FRANCISCO R. , MOCHALES E. , ARIAS M. , MULA P. , SUÁREZ J. L. , MORRONDO P. , DÍEZ‐BAÑOS P. , SÁNCHEZ‐ANDRADE R. , PAZ‐SILVA A.
Published: August 2009

The aim of this study was to assess, by a clinical trial, the efficacy of an ivermectin‐based pour‐on treatment against gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes in naturally infected horses using 2 groups of mature indigenous Pura Raza Galega grazing mares. Faecal and blood samples were collected individually over a 21 week period. Faeces were analysed by the coprological flotation, sedimentation and migration techniques. Changes in circulating blood cells were monitored over the study period.

The administration of the ivermectin suppressed the eggelimination of ascarids and pinworms throughout the study and no strongyle‐eggs were observed in the treatment group between the 3rd and 10th weeks. The numbers of red cells increased significantly after the anthelmintic therapy, and a statistical reduction in circulating leucocytes was recorded. No side effects were observed. The pour‐on ivermectin formulation was highly successful against gastrointestinal nematodes and appears to be a useful therapeutic routine for large groups of horses.
Comparison of radiography and ultrasonography for the diagnosis of osteochondritis dissecans in the equine femoropatellar joint
Authors: BOURZAC C. , ALEXANDER K. , ROSSIER Y. , LAVERTY S.
Published: August 2009

Reasons for performing study: Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions of the femoropatellar (FP) joint are diagnosed routinely by radiography, but lesions located in the trochlear groove or without accompanying subchondral bone changes can be difficult to visualise. Ultrasonography allows evaluation of articular cartilage and subchondral bone in the FP joint.

Objectives: To document the radiographic and ultrasonographic appearance of OCD lesions in the equine FP joint, grade ultrasonographic lesions and compare their accuracy in the diagnosis of these lesions.

Methods: The medical records of all horses diagnosed with FP OCD between 1995 and 2006 were assessed. Inclusion criteria included availability of both radiographic and ultrasonographic images. Lesion characteristics were evaluated in each trochlear ridge and trochlear groove. For assessment of the accuracy (sensitivity and specificity) of both imaging techniques in the diagnosis of OCD, only cases with an arthroscopic or necropsy examination were studied.

Results: Twenty‐one horses were included. OCD lesions were diagnosed by radiography (30/32 joints) and ultrasound (32/32 joints). The lateral trochlear ridge (LTR, 91%) and the medial trochlear ridge (MTR, 17%) were involved on radiography. The localisation on ultrasound examination was similar (97% LTR, 25% MTR). All but one lesion seen on radiography were also detected with ultrasound; 2 LTR and 3 MTR lesions, not seen on radiography were diagnosed by ultrasound and confirmed at arthroscopy or necropsy. The specificity was 100% regardless of the site and imaging procedure except for the distal third of the MTR (94% for ultrasound). The sensitivity varied, depending on lesion site.

Conclusion: Ultrasonography is a valuable diagnostic tool to diagnose OCD lesions in the FP joint and more sensitive than radiography for lesions affecting the MTR of the distal femur.

Clinical relevance: Ultrasound should be considered as a useful adjunct to radiography for diagnosing equine FP OCD, especially in cases of high clinical suspicion but equivocal radiographic findings. Images can be generated immediately when digital radiography is not available, permitting an immediate on‐site diagnosis.
Multicentre, controlled, randomised and blinded field study comparing efficacy of suxibuzone and phenylbutazone in lame horses
Authors: SABATÉ D. , HOMEDES J. , SALICHS M. , SUST M. , MONREAL L.
Published: August 2009

Reasons for performing study: In horses, it has been demonstrated that suxibuzone (SBZ) has a lower gastric ulcerogenic effect than phenylbutazone (PBZ). However, no field trials have been reported comparing the efficacy of the drugs in alleviating lameness.

Objectives: To compare the therapeutic effect of SBZ to that of PBZ when administered orally in lame horses. Acceptability of both products was also compared.

Methods: Lame horses (n = 155) were used in a multicentre, controlled, randomised and double‐blinded clinical trial. Horses were treated orally with either SBZ or PBZ at equivalent therapeutic dosages. PBZ was given to 79 horses at a dose of 4.4 mg/kg bwt/12 h for 2 days, followed by 2.2 mg/kg bwt/12 h for 6 days. SBZ was given to 76 horses at 6.6 mg/kg bwt/12 h for 2 days, followed by 3.3 mg/kg bwt/12 h for 6 days. Efficacy of treatments was evaluated by clinicians in equine practices according to lameness progression throughout the study. Product ingestion was checked daily to evaluate product acceptability.

Results: Although SBZ showed a statistically significant tendency to have a better efficacy than PBZ (Odds ratio = 2.7; P = 0.016), significance dissipated once the analysis was adjusted for some imbalanced baseline covariates, confirming that they were actually related to the apparent advantage of SBZ over PBZ. Product acceptability was significantly higher in the SBZ group than in the PBZ group (96.1% vs. 77.2%; P = 0.001).

Conclusions: SBZ and PBZ did not show significant differences in alleviating lameness in horses. However, SBZ had better product acceptability when administered orally with some food.

Potential relevance: SBZ is a good therapeutic alternative to PBZ in horses since there is no significant difference in alleviating lameness between the 2 therapies.
Pathology of gastritis and gastric ulceration in the horse. Part 1: Range of lesions present in 21 mature individuals
Authors: MARTINEAU H. , THOMPSON H. , TAYLOR D.
Published: August 2009

Reasons for performing study: Gastric ulceration is now widely recognised as an important disease in high performance horses. Little is known about gastric histopathology in healthy or diseased animals; a comprehensive assessment would enhance interpretation of gross findings through assessment of their accuracy and allow for identification of lesion variety and pathogenesis in different anatomical regions of the stomach.

Objectives: To investigate the true extent and variety of gastric lesions in a mixed population of mature horses atpost mortem.

Methods: Stomachs were removed from a mixed population of 21 horses atpost mortem.Mucosal abnormalities were recorded in photographic and written form. Representative samples from all gross lesions were taken for histopathology and processed routinely. Special stains including Gram, PAS and Warthin Starry, were used when appropriate. Pathological classification of lesion type using both gross and histological appearances was performed.

Results: Classification of lesions within the squamous region included hyperkeratosis, punctate scars, diffuse erosions/ulcerations andmargo injuria;and within the glandular region, hyperaemia, focal erosions and ulcerations. Glandular metaplasia was recognised for the first time in the equine stomach. NoHelicobacter‐like organisms were detected in association with lesion development.

Conclusions and potential relevance: This study used gross and histological examination to highlight the large variety of naturally occurring gastric lesions in a mixed population of horses. Analysis of the pathogenesis of lesion development is now possible. Further research regarding the range of pathology in larger, more diverse groups of horses is required.
Spontaneous bilateral ankylosis of the carpometacarpal joint in a Paint Horse
Authors: Oosterlinck M. , Pille F. , Gasthuys F. , Saunders J. H.
Published: August 2009

An 8‐year‐old Paint Horse gelding was evaluated for a persistent left forelimb lameness (grade 4/5), with a hard swelling at the dorsomedial aspect of the carpometacarpal joint, due to osteoarthritis. Previous systemic and local anti‐inflammatory therapy had only a temporary effect. Partial carpal arthrodesis was suggested, but the owner elected for conservative treatment. The horse was confined to a small paddock and received phytotherapeutic supplementation with Harpagophytum procumbens. The lameness gradually resolved but a similar hard swelling developed on the right carpus. Radiographic follow‐up 1.5 years later revealed a spontaneous bilateral ankylosis of the carpometacarpal joint.
Malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the mammary gland in a mare
Authors: Reesink H. L. , Parente E. J. , Sertich P. L. , Engiles J. B.
Published: August 2009

Mammary tumours are uncommon in mares. Sarcomas of the breast account for less than 1% of all human primary malignancies and, among these types of tumours, malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) is very rare. This report describes a 6‐year‐old uniparous Paint mare that was presented for investigation of right mammary gland enlargement of 3 weeks' duration. The clinical and histopathological findings in this mare with malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the mammary gland as well as complications of bilateral mastectomy are detailed. At one year follow‐up there were no clinical signs of recurrence.
Acute renal disease fromLeptospira interrogansin three yearlings from the same farm
Authors: Frellstedt L. , Slovis N. M.
Published: August 2009

Renal dysfunction due to leptospirosis has been reported infrequently in the horse. The animals in this case presentation developed an acute and persistent febrile illness that could have been attributed to a number of infectious diseases. Upon numerous subsequent clinical evaluations, detection of renal dysfunction narrowed the list of differential diagnoses.

This Case Report describes 3 horses with acute renal disease fromLeptospira interrogans. Pyrexia was the initial clinical sign and was refractory to antimicrobial therapy. Once azotaemia developed, leptospirosis was diagnosed as the origin of the renal dysfunction. Treatment included i.v. crystalloid fluids, diuretics, anti‐inflammatory medication, antibiotics, pentoxifylline and polysulphated glucosaminoglycan. Additionally, one of these 3 horses required a continuous infusion of vasopressors to resolve the azotaemia. Pyrexia resolved within 48 h of treatment initiation for leptospirosis. The azotaemia resolved completely after 3 months (Case 1), 3 weeks (Case 2) and 5 days (Case 3).