bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of the AKT and mammalian target of rapamycin pathways and the inhibitory effects of rapamycin on those pathways in canine malignant melanoma cell lines
Authors: Kent Michael S. , Collins Cameron J. , Ye Fang
Published: February 2009

Objective—To investigate the activation of the AKT and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways and assess the inhibitory effects of rapamycin on those pathways in canine malignant melanoma cells.

Sample Population—3 established primary canine melanoma cell lines generated from naturally occurring tumors.

Procedures—Expressions of total and phosphorylated AKT, mTOR, and p70 ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (p70S6K) in canine melanoma cells that were or were not exposed to 10nM rapamycin were assessed via western blot analysis. Clonogenic assays were performed to determine the surviving fraction of melanoma cells after exposure to 0.1, 1, 10, or 100nM rapamycin.

Results—Expressions of total and phosphorylated AKT, mTOR, and p70S6K proteins were detected (ie, the AKT and mTOR pathways were activated) in all 3 cell lines. Rapamycin treatment resulted in decreases in phosphorylated mTOR expression and phosphorylated p70S6K expression but no change in phosphorylated AKT expression. Expression of total AKT, mTOR, and p70S6K persisted after rapamycin treatment. There was a significant dose-dependent decrease in surviving tumor cell fraction for each cell line following treatment with rapamycin.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These data indicated that AKT and mTOR, as well as their downstream product p70S6K, are present and active in canine melanoma cells. Activation of the mTOR pathway can be inhibited by rapamycin; treatment of melanoma cells with rapamycin decreased the surviving tumor cell fraction. Use of mTOR inhibitors as antineoplastic treatments in dogs with melanoma warrants investigation. Furthermore, these data support the use of canine melanoma cells as a molecular model for melanoma in humans.
Effects and mechanisms of action of the ergopeptides ergotamine and ergovaline and the effects of peramine on reticulum motility of sheep
Authors: Poole Daniel P. , Littler Raymond A. , Smith Barry L. , McLeay Lance M.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To investigate effects and mechanisms of ergotamine and ergovaline and effects of peramine on reticulum motility of sheep.

Sample Population—3 sheep with indwelling electrodes in the reticulum and samples of reticulum collected from 126 sheep at an abattoir.

Procedures—In conscious sheep, motility was recorded as integrated electromyograms from the reticulum. Ergotamine was administered IV alone or in combination with the cholinergic muscarinic receptor antagonist atropine to sheep, and motility of the reticulum was assessed. In vitro, whole wall strips of the reticulum, cut in a direction to record longitudinal muscle activity via force transducers, were placed in 10-mL organ baths and superfused with Tyrode Ringer's solution at 37°C and oxygenated with 95% oxygen and 5% carbon dioxide. Testing involved incubation of reticulum strips with ergotamine, ergovaline, and peramine and measurement of motility of the reticulum tissues.

Results—Administration of ergotamine to sheep reduced the frequency of reticulum contractions and increased baseline electromyographic activity (tonus). Frequency was unaffected by atropine, whereas tonus was significantly reduced. In vitro, ergotamine and ergovaline increased tonic contractions and stimulated phasic contractions of reticulum tissues and potentiated electrically stimulated contractions. Atropine and tetrodotoxin re-duced tonic contractions, but stimulation of large-amplitude phasic contractions remained. Peramine had no effect on motility of reticulum tissues.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of the study indicated that peripheral excitatory effects of the ergopeptides on motility of the reticulum appear to be mediated partly through myenteric neurons and muscarinic receptors and also through direct effects on the muscles.
Effects of platelet-rich plasma on the repair of wounds on the distal aspect of the forelimb in horses
Authors: Monteiro Susana O. , Lepage Olivier M. , Theoret Christine L.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To evaluate the effect of platelet-rich plasma on wounds on the distal aspect of the forelimb in horses.

Animals—6 mixed-breed 10- to 15-year-old mares.

Procedures—3 wounds were created on metacarpal regions in each of 6 horses (n = 36 wounds total). Eighteen wounds were treated with platelet-rich plasma and bandaged, whereas 18 control wounds were similarly bandaged with no prior topical treatment. Decrease in wound surface area and the required number of excisions of exuberant granulation tissue were recorded until complete healing. Tissue specimens were taken from wounds at 1 week for histologic examination and measurement of transforming growth factor-β1 concentrations and at closure for histologic examination, biomechanical evaluation, and measurement of collagen type I and type III mRNA.

Results—Platelet-rich plasma favored excessive development of granulation tissue and significantly slowed wound healing at 1, 2, and 3 weeks after surgery. Transforming growth factor-β1 had a 1.6-fold higher concentration in treated wounds, compared with untreated wounds. Histologic, biomechanical, and gene expression data did not differ significantly between treated and control wounds.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Topical application of autologous platelet-rich plasma did not accelerate or improve the quality of repair of small granulating wounds on limbs of horses. This treatment may better suit wounds with massive tissue loss or, alternatively, chronic wounds that would benefit from a fresh source of mediators to accelerate the healing process.
Evaluation of in vitro performance of suction drains
Authors: Halfacree Zoë J. , Wilson Alan M. , Baines Stephen J.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To assess the in vitro performance of suction drains.

Sample Population—11 drainage systems (3 rigid drains and 8 compressible drains [2 grenade type, 5 concertina type, and 1 pancake type]).

Procedures—A pressure transducer was connected to the patient end of each drainage system. Serial pressure measurements were obtained during incremental addition and removal of air into the reservoir of each system, followed by incremental addition of water. The volume of air removed to restore the initial suction was recorded. Maximum filling volume was compared with the stated reservoir volume. For compressible drains, the suction generated following 3 compression methods was compared.

Results—The initial suction generated by the drainage systems ranged from −633.4 ± 14.7 mm Hg to −90.1 ± 19.5 mm Hg. Rigid drains had greater initial suction than compressible drains. For all compressible drains, compression with 2 hands, rather than 1, produced greater suction, apart from the pancake-type (200-mL reservoir) drains for which the reverse occurred. For grenade-type drains, rolling the reservoir from apex to base generated greater suction than 1-hand compression. Maximum filling volume was lower than stated for the concertina-type drains with 50-mL, 25-mL, and 400-mL reservoirs and the rigid-type drain with a 200-mL reservoir. As increments of air or water were added, compressible drains lost suction rapidly up to a fill of 20% to 30% and then more gradually. Rigid drains lost suction more slowly.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Drainage systems varied widely in their initial suction and rate of loss of suction during filling.
Indices of urine N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase activities in clinically normal adult dogs
Authors: Brunker Jill D. , Ponzio Nicole M. , Payton Mark E.
Published: February 2009

Objective—To establish reference ranges for indices of urine N-acetyl-B-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) and G-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) activities in clinically normal adult dogs.

Animals—38 dogs.

Procedures—Each dog underwent a physical examination, CBC, serum biochemical analysis, urinalysis, and serologic testing for heartworm antigen and antibodies against Ehrlichia canis and Borrelia burgdorferi. Activities of NAG and GGT in urine were evaluated, and values of the respective indices were determined as urine NAG or GGT activity (U/L) divided by urine creatinine concentration (g/L).

Results—All dogs were considered clinically normal. A 90% prediction interval based on the 5th and 95th percentiles for GGT and NAG index values from both sexes was used to establish the reference ranges for dogs: 1.93 to 28.57 U/g and 0.02 to 3.63 U/g, respectively. Between males and females, urine NAG index differed significantly, whereas urine GGT index did not. When accounting for sex differences, reference ranges for the urine NAG index in males and females were 0.02 to 3.65 U/g and 0.02 to 2.31 U/g, respectively. Changes in urine pH significantly affected the urine GGT index but not the urine NAG index. Neither index changed significantly with changes in body surface area.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Data suggest that increases in urine NAG and GGT indices allow for earlier detection of renal tubular damage in dogs. Such early detection would enable adjustment of the clinical management of affected dogs to decrease morbidity and death rates associated with acute tubular injury and acute tubular necrosis.
Caudal compression of the infraorbital nerve: A novel surgical technique for treatment of idiopathic headshaking and assessment of its efficacy in 24 horses
Authors: ROBERTS V. L. H. , McKANE S. A. , WILLIAMS A. , KNOTTENBELT D. C.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for designing and reporting technique: Idiopathic headshaking has remarkable similarities to human neuropathic facial pain syndromes associated with post herpetic and trigeminal neuralgia. These derive from abnormal sensory function within the peripheral or central pathways of the trigeminal nerve (TgN). Limiting input from the TgN can be helpful in controlling the perception of pain. Rhizotomy of the infraorbital branch of the TgN as it emerges from the infraorbital canal has been reported but has a poor efficacy. A novel technique involves compression of the nerve at a more caudal location within the infraorbital canal and the technique requires validation.

Hypothesis: Caudal compression of the infraorbital nerve with platinum coils, performed in horses diagnosed with idiopathic headshaking, results in a decrease in clinical signs.

Methods: Caudal compression of the infraorbital nerve, using platinum embolisation coils, was performed under fluoroscopic guidance. Clinical records of 24 idiopathic headshakers that had undergone this procedure were reviewed. Follow‐up information was obtained by telephone questionnaire with the owner or referring veterinary surgeon.

Results: All 24 horses had at least one surgical procedure. Median follow‐up time was 6 months. There were 2 horses which had surgery 2 weeks before follow‐up and these were excluded from the analysis of outcome. Following one surgery, 13/22 horses (59.0%) had a successful outcome. Of the 9 horses that did not improve, surgery was repeated in 6 cases. Two of these horses had a successful outcome. Overall, a successful outcome was obtained in 16/19 horses (84.2%).

Conclusions: This surgical technique is likely to prevent input from the TgN at a more caudal location then the previously described infraorbital neurectomy. The technique requires refinement.
Prediction of incipient pasture‐associated laminitis from hyperinsulinaemia, hyperleptinaemia and generalised and localised obesity in a cohort of ponies
Authors: CARTER R. A. , TREIBER K. H. , GEOR R. J. , DOUGLASS L. , HARRIS P. A.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: The ability to predict ponies at increased risk of laminitic episodes, when exposed to nutrient dense pasture, would facilitate management to avoid disease.

Objectives: To identify variables and clinically useful cut‐off values with reproducible diagnostic accuracy for the prediction of ponies that subsequently developed laminitis when exposed to nutrient dense pasture.

Methods: A cohort of predominantly Welsh and Dartmoor ponies from a closed herd was evaluated in March 2006 (n = 74) and March 2007 (n = 57). Ponies were categorised as never laminitic or previously laminitic according to reported laminitic history and as clinically laminitic (CL) if laminitis was observed within 3 months following evaluation. Body condition score (BCS), cresty neck score (CNS), girth and neck circumferences (NC), withers height, blood pressure and hoof surface temperature, and plasma insulin, glucose, triglyceride, leptin, cortisol, ACTH, uric acid and TNF‐α concentrations were measured. Analysis of sensitivity, specificity and receiver operating characteristic curves was used to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy for a variable to predict CL ponies.

Results: Variables with diagnostic accuracy for the prediction of CL ponies included insulin, leptin, BCS, CNS, and NC:height ratio. Specific cut‐off values of insulin (>32 mu/l), leptin (>7.3 ng/ml), BCS (≥7), CNS (≥4) and NC:height ratio (>0.71) had reproducible diagnostic accuracy for the prediction of laminitis. Combining tests did not result in higher diagnostic accuracy than individual tests of insulin or leptin during either evaluation.

Conclusions: Tests of insulin and leptin concentrations and measures of generalised (BCS) and localised (CNS or NC:height ratio) obesity were beneficial in the prediction of laminitic episodes.

Potential relevance: These results highlight the importance of monitoring and reducing insulin concentration, and generalised and regional obesity in ponies to reduce risk of laminitis.
Chronology and sequence of emergence of permanent premolar teeth in the horse: Study of deciduous premolar ‘cap’ removal in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: RAMZAN P. H. L. , PALMER L. , BARQUERO N. , NEWTON J. R.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: There are few published data to support the ages of emergence of permanent dentition widely reported in horses.

Objectives: To clarify the chronology and sequence of permanent premolar (PM) tooth emergence in Thoroughbred racehorses.

Methods: A prospective study was undertaken in which records were kept of deciduous PM ‘cap’ extractions performed during routine dental examinations in Thoroughbred racehorses. Mixed effects multiple regression analysis was used to relate the observed ages, measured in days, for PM ‘cap’ extractions simultaneously with different predictive variables. Care was taken to account for clustering of multiple observed outcomes within individual horses.

Results: A total of 508 deciduous premolar ‘caps’ were removed from 207 horses, mean ages at removal from PM2, PM3 and PM4 were 35.1, 37.7 and 45.1 months, respectively. Age at which deciduous ‘cap’ removal occurred was associated significantly with tooth row, upper or lower jaw and gender of the horse concerned. There was a significant trend for later ‘cap’ extraction age with more caudal teeth, teeth in the upper jaw and female gender.

Conclusions: Age at removal of deciduous premolar ‘caps’ in this population differed considerably from the ages of emergence of permanent dentition reported widely in equine publications. The results provide the first evidence of sexual dimorphism in the eruption of the permanent premolar dentition in horses. These findings strongly support a model of cheek tooth eruption in the horse in which chronology and sequence of emergence are more complex than previously thought, but which is consistent with understanding of tooth eruption in species that have been studied in greater detail.

Potential relevance: Abnormalities of cheek tooth eruption are thought to be a factor in the pathogenesis of a variety of dental conditions, and a thorough understanding of the process of eruption is fundamental to the development of rational strategies for prevention and treatment.
Evidence of the development of ‘domain‐restricted’ expertise in the recognition of asymmetric motion characteristics of hindlimb lameness in the horse
Authors: PARKES R. S. V. , WELLER R. , GROTH A. M. , MAY S. , PFAU T.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Visual assessment of horses' movements is subjective, affected by bias and dependent on the level of experience of the assessor. However, to date there are no data available on the ability of the human visual system to recognise (a)symmetry in moving objects.

Objectives: To investigate, using visual lameness assessment, the limits of human perception and the ability of experienced and nonexperienced individuals to detect asymmetry in 2 moving objects simulating hindlimb lameness in the horse.

Methods: Twelve experienced individuals (equine and small animal clinicians), and 24 nonexperienced individuals (undergraduate veterinary students) were presented with computer simulations showing 2 ‘tuber coxaemarkers’ created using data from both lame and nonperceptibly lame horses, as well as artificial data based on a sine wave. Individuals were asked to classify as symmetrical or asymmetrical, and then rank based on the grade of perceived asymmetry. Repeatability and learning effect were evaluated by repeating the tests on a subset of subjects.

Results: The threshold for detection of movement asymmetry was found to be approximately 25% difference in amplitude between the 2 moving objects for all individuals. There was no significant difference between experienced and nonexperienced individuals in the ability to detect asymmetry in the simulations based on artificial data. However, the percentage of correct answers was higher for experienced compared to nonexperienced individuals for simulations based on data from real lame horses.

Conclusions: There was a significant difference between experienced and nonexperienced individuals in the ability to identify asymmetric movement based on the pattern seen in a lame horse, as opposed to an artificial pattern for which all individuals showed similar performance.

Potential relevance: The study provides the basis for the development of computer simulations that could aid in training veterinarians in the diagnosis of lameness and, even, the objective assessment of expertise in this field.
Diseases in neonatal foals. Part 1: The 30 day incidence of disease and the effect of prophylactic antimicrobial drug treatment during the first three days post partum
Authors: WOHLFENDER F. D. , BARRELET F. E. , DOHERR M. G. , STRAUB R. , MEIER H. P.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Neonatal diseases have been grouped and analysed but up‐to‐date statistically significant information about the incidence and prevalence of diseases in foals is limited. Since the 1950s it has been a common management practice to administer a 3 day course of antimicrobial drugs to neonatal foals. This was shown to significantly reduce the incidence of infections (Platt 1977). Since then management practices have improved and it is widely believed that prophylactic antimicrobial drugs are no longer necessary in foal rearing.

Objectives: To determine the 30 day incidences or prevalences (depending on case definition) of various diseases and conditions in the neonatal foal and ascertain the influence of a prophylactic 3 day treatment on the frequency of infections.

Methods: The population consisted of Thoroughbred foals born on stud farms in the Newmarket (UK) area in 2005 (n = 1031). Depending on the stud farm's practice in the use of prophylactic antimicrobial drugs, 2 groups of newborn foals (treated and untreated) were identified and followed for 30 days.

Results: The 30 day incidences of infectious diseases under study were between 0.2% (osteomyelitis) and 5.85% (systemic disease with diarrhoea). The overall incidence for ‘total infectious diseases’ was 8.27%. The most commonly observed noninfectious condition was limb deformities (12.11% of all foals). There was no significant difference in the incidence of infectious diseases between the 2 groups.

Conclusion: Infectious diseases are still an important problem in neonatal foals requiring further investigation as to which factors other than antimicrobial prophylaxis are relevant for disease prevention.

Potential relevance: The results provide an up‐to‐date overview about the frequencies of various neonatal foal diseases. They do not support the traditional prophylactic use of antimicrobials to prevent infectious diseases in healthy newborn foals. However, it should be noted that this study was not a randomised controlled trial and therefore does not provide the strongest possible evidence for this conclusion.
Diseases in neonatal foals. Part 2: Potential risk factors for a higher incidence of infectious diseases during the first 30 days post partum
Authors: WOHLFENDER F. D. , BARRELET F. E. , DOHERR M. G. , STRAUB R. , MEIER H. P.
Published: February 2009

Reason for performing study: The development of clinical illness in foals is usually predetermined by perinatal history, management or stressful environmental conditions.

Objectives: To determine potential risk factors for an increased incidence of infectious diseases during the first 30 days post partum.

Methods: The population consisted of Thoroughbred foals born on stud farms in the Newmarket (UK) area in 2005 (n = 1031). They were followed for their first 30 days. Factors suspected to influence the incidence of infectious neonatal diseases were examined in a logistic regression approach for each of the 3 outcomes (total infectious diseases, systemic disease with diarrhoea and total infectious diseases excluding diarrhoea). All 28 factors were either foal or mare or stud farm related.

Results: Several significant risk factors for a higher disease incidence, such as birth complications, colostrum intake by stomach tube and leucocytosis 12–48 h post partum were identified. The factor ‘boarding stud’ seemed to be protective against disease.

Conclusion: Some factors, such as the mare's time at stud before foaling, the mare's rotavirus vaccination schedule and fibrinogen‐values that empirically had been linked to the outcome previously were not confirmed as relevant. This included the reported useful prophylactic treatment with antimicrobial drugs.

Potential relevance: Factors to be considered when evaluating newborn foals include: stud management, the birth process, route of colostrum intake, white and red blood cells, and the date of birth. These may help to detect foals at risk to develop an infection so that targeted prophylactic measures can be initiated.
Influence of foot conformation on duration of competitive life in a Dutch Warmblood horse population
Authors: DUCRO B. J. , GORISSEN B. , van ELDIK P. , BACK W.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Warmblood horse studbooks aim to breed horses with a conformation that will enable elite future sports performance, but reduce the risk of early retirement due to lameness. Negative conformational traits, such as asymmetrical or ‘uneven’ forefeet may possibly shorten the career of sporthorses.

Objectives: To investigate the significance of foot conformation at young age to duration of the career of sporthorses.

Methods: Databases of the Royal Dutch Warmblood Studbook (KWPN) and of the Royal Dutch Equestrian Sports Federation (KNHS) were matched and resulted in a dataset comprising 23,116 records of horses for which their conformation scores and duration of their sports career were available. Survival analysis was used to determine which of the conformation traits had a significant effect on duration of sports career in dressage and jumping at basic and elite level.

Results: Duration of competitive life was shorter for jumping than for dressage. A different set of risk factors was found for each level and discipline. The trait ‘uneven feet’ tended to shorten the competitive life in dressage, but was a significant risk factor at the elite level of jumping.

Conclusions: Limb conformation and, in particular, the conformation of the distal limb, are important for duration of competitive life. From the prevalence of uneven feet in sports disciplines, it may be concluded that this is an undesirable trait, particularly at the elite level of jumping, since uneven feet have a detrimental effect on the duration of competitive life in a sporthorse population.

Potential relevance: This study provided evidence that the conformation trait uneven feet has a negative effect on Warmblood jumping performance and, therefore, breeders should be encouraged to avoid this phenomenon at foal age.
Short‐term anaesthesia with xylazine, diazepam/ketamine for castration in horses under field conditions: Use of intravenous lidocaine
Authors: SINCLAIR M. , VALVERDE A.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Lidocaine single boluses and/or constant rate infusions are commonly administered intraoperatively during inhalant anaesthesia to lower inhalant concentrations, promote or maintain gastrointestinal motility, and potentially supplement analgesia. The benefits of using lidocaine with injectable anaesthesia for field surgeries has not been fully explored to determine advantages and disadvantages of lidocaine as an anaesthetic and analgesic adjunct in these conditions and impact on recovery quality.

Objectives: To evaluate the use of systemic lidocaine with a standard field injectable anaesthetic protocol related to the need for additional drug administration as well as overall recovery score and quality.

Hypothesis: The administration of systemic lidocaine with xylazine‐diazepam/ketamine anaesthesia for castration in the field decreases the need for additional injectable doses required for maintenance, but prolong and potentially impact the overall recovery score and quality in horses.

Methods: Thirty client‐owned horses underwent standard injectable anaesthesia for field castration. Fifteen horses received lidocaine 3 mg/kg bwt, i.v. as a single bolus, and 15 received saline equal volume. The horses were monitored for the need for additional injectable anaesthetics and scored for overall recovery and quality by a blinded anaesthetist.

Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the overall recovery score and quality, or need for additional injectable anaesthetic between horses receiving lidocaine and those receiving saline. There was a significantly longer time for the horses to stand after induction in the lidocaine group (mean 30.7 min) vs. saline group (mean 22.5 min) (P<0.04).

Conclusions: Lidocaine, 3 mg/kg bwt i.v., does not adversely affect recovery using injectable field regimes, but the overall recovery period was longer. Lidocaine does not appear to reduce the need for additional injectable administration during surgery.

Potential relevance: Further research is warranted to define the benefit of systemic lidocaine with field anaesthesia in horses by exploring the ideal dose and plasma level of lidocaine with injectable anaesthesia.
Blood culture status in mature horses with diarrhoea: A possible association with survival
Authors: JOHNS I. , TENNENT‐BROWN B. , SCHAER B. DALLAP , SOUTHWOOD L. , BOSTON R. , WILKINS P.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: The incidence and implications of positive blood cultures in mature horses with diarrhoea is unknown. The diagnosis of bacteraemia may alter treatment and prognosis.

Hypothesis: The proportion of horses with diarrhoea that are blood culture positive is higher than previously assumed and a positive blood culture has a negative impact on survival.

Methods: Blood cultures were taken at admission and 24 h after admission from 31 mature horses with diarrhoea.

Results: Nine (29%) horses were blood culture positive within 24 h of admission. Organisms isolated includedCorynebacteriumspp. (n = 6),Streptococcusspp. (n = 2),Pantoea agglomerans(n = 1), Gram‐negative rod (n = 1),Bacillusspp. (n = 1) and yeast (n = 1). Horses with positive blood cultures were significantly less likely to survive. Prior treatment with antimicrobial drugs had no significant effect on blood culture status. Horses with positive blood cultures had a significantly higher heart rate, packed cell volume (PCV) and plasma potassium concentration at admission, and a higher PCV and lower total plasma protein concentration 24 h after admission.

Conclusions: Positive blood cultures occur more frequently than previously reported, and may have a negative impact on survival in horses with diarrhoea.

Potential relevance: Results of blood cultures may be useful in formulating a prognosis for horses with diarrhoea. Further research is required to determine the effect of antimicrobial treatment on outcome.
Heritability of foot conformation and its relationship to sports performance in a Dutch Warmblood horse population
Authors: DUCRO B. J. , BOVENHUIS H. , BACK W.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Warmblood horse studbooks aim to breed horses with a conformation that will enable elite future performance, but reduce the risk of injuries and lameness. Negative conformational traits, such as asymmetrical or ‘uneven’ forefeet would possibly diminish performance.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence and heritability of uneven feet and its genetic relationship to other conformation traits as well as to sporting performance later in life in Warmblood riding horses.

Methods: The databases of the Royal Dutch Warmblood Studbook (KWPN, n = 44,840 horses) and Royal Dutch Equestrian Sports Federation (KNHS, n = 33,459 horses in dressage and n = 30,474 horses in showjumping) were linked through the unique number of each registered horse. Therefore, heritabilities and genetic and phenotypic correlations could be estimated from the scores of the jury at studbook admission and the sports performance of that population in dressage and jumping over the period 1990–2002.

Results: The prevalence of uneven feet was 5.3% on average, and increased from under 4.5% during the first 3 years of recording to over 8% in the years from 2000 onwards. Heritability estimates of foot conformation traits were moderate and ranged from 0.16 for heel height to 0.27 for hoof shape. The genetic correlation between the trait of uneven feet and performance in competition was negative but weak: −0.09 with dressage and −0.12 with showjumping.

Conclusions: Predisposition to uneven feet can be reduced by selection. Because of weak genetic correlations, the increased prevalence is not directly associated with selection for better sports performance or higher conformation grade. If the trait ‘uneven feet’ arises from a disproportionate relationship between height at the withers and neck length, then selection on conformation grade might result in development of uneven feet. In general, limb conformation has a moderate genetic relationship to conformation grade and foot conformation traits have a genetic relationship to sporting performance. Reducing occurrence of uneven feet by selection is possible, without limiting progress in sport performance.
The nature of flag power: How flags entail dominance, subordination, and social solidarity
Authors: Shanafelt Robert
Published: February 2009

Conventionally, flags are explained as symbols of group solidarity that achieve force through ritual processes. Alternatively, flags may be seen as symbols with positive or negative associations derived from our experiences with physical space. While this article accepts these interpretations, it also argues that they need to be augmented. Flag meaning is not entirely a social or linguistic construction because there is a link between flag displays and our inherent predispositions to cues about social rank. Our evolved social intelligence makes us sensitive to the topographic features of flag displays that signal relationships of dominance and subordination.
Algorithm for Nanotubes Computer Generation with Different Configurations
Authors: Contreras M. Leonor , Benítez Eliseo , Alvarez José , Rozas Roberto
Published: February 2009

The algorithm here described concerns generation, visualization, and modification of molecular nanostructures of single-walled nanotubes (NTs) of particular configurations (armchair, zipper, multiple zipper, zigzag, or chiral) by means of a Graphical User Interface (GUI). NTs are made from a carbon graphene sheet created according to certain parameters defining required nanostructures. Generated NTs can easily be modified by replacing carbon atoms for nitrogen or boron, visualized and exported into a standard format useful as input to be analyzed and submitted to other applications in order to get optimized geometries and to carry out further calculations of molecular and electronic properties.
Investigation on the Protective Effect of α-Mannan against the DNA Damage Induced by Aflatoxin B1 in Mouse Hepatocytes
Authors: Madrigal-Santillán Eduardo , Morales-González José Antonio , Sánchez-Gutiérrez Manuel , Reyes-Arellano Alicia , Madrigal-Bujaidar Eduardo
Published: February 2009

Aflatoxin B1 is a contaminant of agricultural and dairy products that can be related to mutagenic and carcinogenic effects. In this report we explore the capacity of α-mannan (Man) to reduce the DNA damage induced by AFB1 in mouse hepatocytes. For this purpose we applied the comet assay to groups of animals which were first administered Man (100, 400 and 700 mg/kg, respectively) and 20 min later 1.0 mg/kg of AFB1. Liver cells were obtained at 4, 10, and 16 h after the chemical administration and examined. The results showed no protection of the damage induced by AFB1 with the low dose of the polysaccharide, but they did reveal antigenotoxic activity exerted by the two high doses. In addition, we induced a co-crystallization between both compounds, determined their fusion points and analyzed the molecules by UV spectroscopy. The obtained data suggested the formation of a supramolecular complex between AFB1 and Man.
Membrane Based Measurement Technology for in situ Monitoring of Gases in Soil
Authors: Lazik Detlef , Ebert Sebastian , Leuthold Martin , Hagenau Jens , Geistlinger Helmut
Published: February 2009

The representative measurement of gas concentration and fluxes in heterogeneous soils is one of the current challenges when analyzing the interactions of biogeochemical processes in soils and global change. Furthermore, recent research projects on CO2-sequestration have an urgent need of CO2-monitoring networks. Therefore, a measurement method based on selective permeation of gases through tubular membranes has been developed. Combining the specific permeation rates of gas components for a membrane and Dalton’s principle, the gas concentration (or partial pressure) can be determined by the measurement of physical quantities (pressure or volume) only. Due to the comparatively small permeation constants of membranes, the influence of the sensor on its surrounding area can be neglected. The design of the sensor membranes can be adapted to the spatial scale from the bench scale to the field scale. The sensitive area for the measurement can be optimized to obtain representative results. Furthermore, a continuous time-averaged measurement is possible where the time for averaging is simply controlled by the wall-thickness of the membrane used. The measuring method is demonstrated for continuous monitoring of O2 and CO2 inside of a sand filled Lysimeter. Using three sensor planes inside the sand pack, which were installed normal to the gas flow direction and a reference measurement system, we demonstrate the accuracy of the gas-detection for different flux-based boundary conditions.
Comparison Between Fractional Vegetation Cover Retrievals from Vegetation Indices and Spectral Mixture Analysis: Case Study of PROBA/CHRIS Data Over an Agricultural Area
Authors: Jiménez-Muñoz Juan C. , Sobrino José A. , Plaza Antonio , Guanter Luis , Moreno José , Martinez Pablo
Published: February 2009

In this paper we compare two different methodologies for Fractional Vegetation Cover (FVC) retrieval from Compact High Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (CHRIS) data onboard the European Space Agency (ESA) Project for On-Board Autonomy (PROBA) platform. The first methodology is based on empirical approaches using Vegetation Indices (VIs), in particular the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Variable Atmospherically Resistant Index (VARI). The second methodology is based on the Spectral Mixture Analysis (SMA) technique, in which a Linear Spectral Unmixing model has been considered in order to retrieve the abundance of the different constituent materials within pixel elements, called Endmembers (EMs). These EMs were extracted from the image using three different methods: i) manual extraction using a land cover map, ii) Pixel Purity Index (PPI) and iii) Automated Morphological Endmember Extraction (AMEE). The different methodologies for FVC retrieval were applied to one PROBA/CHRIS image acquired over an agricultural area in Spain, and they were calibrated and tested against in situ measurements of FVC estimated with hemispherical photographs. The results obtained from VIs show that VARI correlates better with FVC than NDVI does, with standard errors of estimation of less than 8% in the case of VARI and less than 13% in the case of NDVI when calibrated using the in situ measurements. The results obtained from the SMA-LSU technique show Root Mean Square Errors (RMSE) below 12% when EMs are extracted from the AMEE method and around 9% when extracted from the PPI method. A RMSE value below 9% was obtained for manual extraction of EMs using a land cover use map.
Demographic Profile and Utilization Statistics of a Canadian Inpatient Palliative Care Unit within a Tertiary Care Setting
Authors: Napolskikh J. , Selby D. , Bennett M. , Chow E. , Harris K. , Sinclair E. , Myers J.
Published: February 2009

Background: Canadian data describing inpatient palliative care unit (PCU) utilization are scarce. In the present study, we performed a quality assessment of a 24-bed short-term PCU with a 3-months-or-less life expectancy policy in a tertiary care setting. Methods: Using a retrospective chart review, we explored wait time (WT) for admission (May 2005 to April 2006), length of stay [LOS (February 2005 to January 2006)], and patient demographics. Results: The WT data showed 508 referrals, with 242 resulting in admissions (92% malignant diagnoses) and 266 not (82% malignant). The most common malignancies in both groups were gastrointestinal, lung, and genitourinary. Median WT for admitted patients was 6 days, varying with referral source, such as the same hospital, home, or another hospital (6, 4, and 8.5 days respectively). Most admissions (93%) occurred in 21 or fewer days. Patient death (52%), admission to another PCU (25%), and declined offer (10%) were common reasons for no admission. Median LOS for 219 admitted patients was 19 days (range: 0–249 days). Most patients (94%) died in the PCU; a minority were discharged. Conclusions: Many patients requiring PCU services are admitted within a few days of referral, especially patients with the least available support: those at home. However, half of the non-admitted patients die while waiting—a potential area for improvement. The LOS for admitted patients complied with the 3-month “expected lifespan” PCU policy. Results are significant, because ensuring quality of life for palliative care patients includes timely PCU access and sufficient LOS to address end-of-life needs.
A Review of the Reliability and Validity of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System
Authors: Richardson L. A. , Jones G. W.
Published: February 2009

Background: Systematic symptom reporting by patients and the use of questionnaires such as the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) have potential to improve clinical encounters and patient satisfaction. We review findings from published studies of the ESAS to guide use of the system and to focus research. Methods: A systematic search for articles from 1991 through 2007 found thirty-nine peer-reviewed papers from 25 different institutions, thirty-three of which focused on patients with cancer. Observations, data, and statistics were collated according to relevance, reliability, validity, and responsiveness. Results: Findings apply predominantly to symptomatic palliative patients with advanced cancer who were no longer receiving active oncologic therapies. Uncertainty about summarizing findings arises from frequent modification of the ESAS (altered items, scales, and time periods). Overall, reliability is established for daily administration. Scores are skewed, with a floor effect, but the relative order of symptoms by mean scores is similar across studies. Emotional symptoms are poorly captured by the depression and anxiety items. An equally weighted summation of scores may estimate a construct of “physical symptom distress,” which in turn is related to performance status, palliative goals, quality of life, and well-being. Conclusions: The ESAS is reliable, but it has restricted validity, and its use requires a sound clinical process to help interpret scores and to give them an appropriate level of attention. Research priorities are to further develop the ESAS for assessing a greater number of important physical symptoms (and to target “physical symptom distress”), and to develop a similar instrument for emotional symptoms.
Brain Metastasis from an Unknown Primary, or Primary Brain Tumour? A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Campos S. , Davey P. , Hird A. , Pressnail B. , Bilbao J. , Aviv R. I. , Symons S. , Pirouzmand F. , Sinclair E. , Culleton S. , DeSa E. , Goh P. , Chow E.
Published: February 2009

Brain metastasis is increasingly common, affecting 20%–40% of cancer patients. After diagnosis, survival is usually limited to months in these patients. Treatment for brain metastasis includes whole-brain radiation therapy, surgical resection, or both. These treatments aim to slow progression of disease and to improve or maintain neurologic function and quality of life. Although less common, primary brain tumours produce symptoms that are similar to those of brain metastasis. Glioblastoma, the most common malignant tumour of the brain, has a median survival of less than 12 months. Patients are often treated with surgical resection followed by radical radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Here, we present 2 separate cases of lesions in the brain radiologically compatible with brain metastasis. In both cases, no primary cancer site had been established, and neurosurgical intervention was sought to obtain a pathologic diagnosis. Both cases were pathologically confirmed as glioblastoma. These cases demonstrate the importance of differentiation between brain metastases and primary brain tumours to ensure that the appropriate management strategy is implemented.
Management of Skin Rash during egfr-Targeted Monoclonal Antibody Treatment for Gastrointestinal Malignancies: Canadian Recommendations
Authors: Melosky Barbara , Burkes R. , Rayson D. , Alcindor T. , Shear N. , Lacouture M.
Published: February 2009

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is often overexpressed or dysregulated in a variety of solid tumours, including gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies. Agents targeting the EGFR-mediated signalling pathway are increasingly part of the therapeutic armamentarium for the treatment of advanced lung, head-and-neck, and colorectal carcinoma. The EGFR inhibitors (EGFRIS) approved in Canada include the tyrosine kinase inhibitors erlotinib and gefitinib (in selected cases), and the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) panitumumab and cetuximab. Although EGFRIS have been proven effective in the treatment of a variety of malignancies, the entire class of agents is associated with a high prevalence of dermatologic side effects, most commonly skin rash. This reversible condition requires intervention in approximately one third of patients. A proactive, multidisciplinary approach to management can help to improve skin rash and optimize clinical outcomes by preventing EGFRI dose reduction or discontinuation. In addition, effective management and patient education may help to alleviate the significant social and emotional anxiety related to this manageable side effect, thus resulting in improved quality of life. The present article focuses on EGFR-targeted mAbs for the treatment of GI malignancy, addressing the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and incidence of skin rash caused by this class of agents. Recommendations aimed at establishing a framework for consistent, proactive management of skin rash in the Canadian setting are presented.
Approaches and Strategies for Choice of Actions in Self-Paced E-Learning in the Workplace
Authors: Wiklund-Engblom Annika
Published: February 2009

This study is investigating variations of strategic behavior for choosing content and actions in an e-learning course in the workplace. The aim is to provide an increased understanding of differences in how and why learners manage an e-learning environment. Learning needs are related to how we as e-learners develop strategies for navigating and manipulating the content and the environment. Analyses in the present study are guided by the assumption that intentions represent our approaches for choosing content (why we do something), while actions taken represent strategies for choosing content (how we do something). How we manage a learning space has to do with our choices of content, which are based on our intentions for learning.
Putting the Education into Educational Simulations: Pedagogical Structures, Guidance and Feedback
Authors: Guralnick David , Levy Christine
Published: February 2009

Learn-by-doing simulations can provide effective learning, allowing learners to practice skills in a realistic environment in a safe way, free of real-life consequences of mistakes. This method is particularly well-suited for corporate training situations in which the goal is for learners to perform their jobs optimally. The successâ??in terms of improved skill development and job performanceâ??of an educational simulation requires an emphasis on the educational components, not just the simulation aspect. We suggest here that the goals of a learn-by-doing simulation must be not only to provide a practice environment, but to provide a specific learning environment (with guidance and feedback for the learner) and carefully-created situations in order for a learner to become proficient in the required skills.
The E-learning Enterprise â?? Sourcing Opportunities and Ensuring Sustainability
Authors: Delport Rhena
Published: February 2009

Skills shortage is experienced world-wide and often a skills mismatch is observed between programme content and industry needs with the result that qualifications do not secure jobs. Furthermore the distribution of qualifications in different disciplines may not necessarily be aligned with the needs of a country. This paper informs private developers of electronic distance-learning programmes or academics that do curriculum development on how to identify national skills gaps and opportunities for e-learning, using the South African context as example. It also provides information on how to assure sustainability of these programmes by employing criteria for programme accreditation, by accommodating national strategies in education and by assessing â??provider readinessâ?? to offer distance learning.
E-Learning Strategies in Technical Part-Time Studies at Campus Pinkafeld – A Moderate Constructivist Approach to Learning and Teaching
Authors: Kelz Andrea
Published: February 2009

The introduction of part-time studies contributed decisively to a wider acceptance of technical degree programmes at Campus Pinkafeld as their particular organisational design allows students to study alongside work and family commitments. As far as higher technical education is concerned, they provide constructivist-oriented pedagogic approaches to best prepare students for the workplace. In contrast to traditional behaviourist notions, constructivist frameworks allow for blended-learning settings which help implement learning scenarios based on open, technology-aided, learner-centred, self-directed and collaborative learning environments. Exploring some of these more progressive, process-oriented approaches to learning and teaching and the theory behind it are the primary aims of this paper.