bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic mobilisations in cervical flexion: Effects on intervertebral angulations
Authors: CLAYTON H. M. , KAISER L. J. , LAVAGNINO M. , STUBBS N. C.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Based upon human data, it is probable that many conditions associated with neck pain in horses may benefit from performing mobilisation exercises as part of the rehabilitation protocol.

Objectives:To compare sagittal plane intervertebral angulations in a neutral standing position with the angulations at end range of motion in 3 dynamic mobility exercises performed in cervical flexion.

Methods:Sagittal plane motion of the head, neck and back were measured in 8 sound horses standing in a neutral position and in 3 end‐of‐range neck flexion positions: chin‐to‐chest, chin‐between‐carpi, and chin‐between‐fore fetlocks. Skin markers on the head, transverse processes of C1–C6, and dorsal spinous processes of T6, T8, T10, T16, L2, L6, S2 and S4 were tracked and adjacent markers connected to form rigid segments. Intersegmental angles, measured between segments on the ventral surface, in the 4 positions were compared using repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferronipost hoctests (P<0.05).

Results:The largest angular differences involved the cranial and caudal cervical joints with smaller angular differences (<10°) in the mid‐neck. The angle at C1 was significantly more extended for chin‐between‐carpi (98 ± 11°) and chin‐between‐fetlocks (132 ± 11°) than for the neutral position (86 ± 8°) or chin‐to‐chest (92 ± 8°) positions. The intersegmental angle at C6 indicated progressive lowering of the neck from neutral through chin‐to‐chest and chin‐between‐carpi to chin‐between‐fetlocks. The intersegmental angles from T6–L1 were more flexed by 3–7° in the cervical flexions compared with the neutral position with the differences being significant for at least one of the dynamic mobilisations at each vertebral level.

Conclusions:The articulations at the extremities of the cervical vertebral column are primarily responsible for sagittal plane position and orientation of the head and neck. Dynamic cervical flexion also flexes the thoracic intervertebral joints.

Potential relevance:The results indicate that dynamic mobilisation exercises performed in cervical flexion have applications in mobilising the cervical and thoracic intervertebral joints, which may have some clinical applications in rehabilitation.
Effect of fitness on glucose, insulin and cortisol responses to diets varying in starch and fat content in Thoroughbred horses with recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis
Authors: FINNO C. J. , McKENZIE E. , VALBERG S. J. , PAGAN J.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis (RER) occurs in fit, nervous Thoroughbreds fed high nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) diets. Clinical signs are diminished by feeding low NSC, high fat diets; however, the mechanism is unclear.

Objective:To determine if the glucose, insulin and cortisol response to isocaloric diets varying in fat and NSC availability differ in fit vs. unfit Thoroughbreds with RER.

Materials and methods:Four fit (10 weeks treadmill training) RER Thoroughbred mares were exercised and fed 3 isocaloric (121 MJ/day) diets in a 5 day/diet block design. Two high NSC concentrates, sweet feed (SF) and a processed pelleted feed (PL) and a low starch high fat feed (FAT) were used. After 24 h of rest and a 12 h fast, horses ate half their daily concentrate. Blood sampled for [glucose], [insulin] and [cortisol] was obtained before, immediately after and at 30–60 min intervals for 420 min. After 3–6 months detraining period, the block design was repeated.

Results:Results for SF and PL were similar. Regardless of diet, cortisol was higher in fit vs. unfit horses. Fit horses on SF/PL had higher post prandial [insulin] and insulin:glucose ratio than unfit horses. FAT resulted in lower post prandial [glucose] and [insulin] vs. SF/PL. Higher [insulin] in fit vs. unfit horses was not seen on the FAT diet.

Conclusions:Increased post prandial [glucose], [insulin] and [cortisol] induced by high NSC, but not high fat, feeds are enhanced by fitness in RER horses. This combination may trigger rhabdomyolysis through increased excitability in RER Thoroughbreds.
Inertial sensors for assessment of back movement in horses during locomotion over ground
Authors: WARNER S. M. , KOCH T. O. , PFAU T.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study: Assessing back movement is an important part of clinical examination in the horse and objective assessment tools allow for evaluating success of treatment.

Objectives: Accuracy and consistency of inertial sensor measurements for quantification of back movement and movement symmetry during over ground locomotion were assessed; sensor measurements were compared to optical motion capture (mocap) and consistency of measurements focusing on movement symmetry was measured.

Methods: Six nonlame horses were trotted in hand with synchronised mocap and inertial sensor data collection (landmarks: T6, T10, T13, L1 and S3). Inertial sensor data were processed using published methods and symmetry of dorsoventral displacement was assessed based on energy ratio, a Fourier based symmetry measure. Limits of agreement were calculated and visualised to compare mocap and sensor data. Consistency of sensor measurements was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficients and linear regression to investigate the effect of speed on movement symmetry.

Results: Dorsoventral and mediolateral sensor displacement was observed to lie within ± 4–5 mm (± 2 s.d., 9–28% of movement amplitude) and energy ratio to lie within ± 0.03 of mocap data. High levels of correlation were found between strides and trials (0.86–1.0) for each horse and each sensor and variability of symmetry was lowest for T13 followed by T10, T6, L1 and S3 with no significant effect of speed at T6, T10 and T13.

Conclusions: Inertial sensor displacement and symmetry data showed acceptable accuracy and good levels of consistency for back movement. The small mediolateral movement amplitude means that changes of <25% in mediolateral amplitude (also unlikely to be detected by visual assessment) may go undetected. New sensor generations with improved sensor sensitivity and ease of use of equipment indicate good potential for use in a field situation.
Prevalence of exercise‐associated arrhythmias in normal performing dressage horses
Authors: BARBESGAARD L. , BUHL R. , MELDGAARD C.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Exercise‐associated arrhythmias are important differentials when evaluating poor performance sport horses. However, most studies of arrhythmias have been conducted in racehorses and therefore there is a paucity of knowledge concerning the prevalence and significance of exercise‐associated arrhythmias in riding horses.

Objectives:The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of arrhythmias, particularly supraventricular premature complex (SVPCs) and ventricular premature complex (VPCs), associated with exercise in normal performing dressage horses.

Methods:In total, 21 normal performing dressage horses, aged 5–16 years (mean 9 years), were examined clinically and echocardiographically to detect the prevalence of valvular regurgitation. Electrocardiographic (ECG) examinations were performed during rest and during a standardised dressage exercise programme, as well as during recovery period 1 h after exercise. All ECG recordings were analysed for presence and frequency of arrhythmias and arrhythmias were correlated with HR. Mean HR for walk, trot, canter and for specific dressage movements, as well as maximum HR was calculated. Fisher's exact test was used to test for associations between arrhythmias, valvular regurgitation, age and gender.

Results:SVPCs occurred rarely during rest, but occurred during exercise in 6 (28.6%), and in 13 (61.9%) horses during recovery period. Most horses had ≤3 SVPCs. Ventricular premature complex were seen in one horse, which developed twice during exercise. Mild valvular regurgitation was seen in 11 (52%) of the horses. No significant associations between arrhythmia and age, gender or valvular regurgitation were observed.

Conclusions:Reference values for normal performing dressage horses are presented for the first time, demonstrating that arrhythmias occur infrequently during exercise and recovery. Maximum HR in dressage horses is low compared to both showjumping and racehorses. Studies of dressage horses with moderate to severe valvular regurgitation at rest or poor performance are needed to further elucidate the significance of cardiac arrhythmias.
A pilot study on objective quantification and anatomical modelling ofin vivohead and neck positions commonly applied in training and competition of sport horses
Authors: ELGERSMA A. E. , WIJNBERG I. D. , SLEUTJENS J. , Van Der KOLK J. H. , Van WEEREN P. R. , BACK W.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Head and neck positions (HNP) in sport horses are under debate in the equine community, as they could interfere with equine welfare. HNPs have not been quantified objectively and no information is available on their head and neck loading.

Objectives:To quantifyin vivoHNPs in sport horses and develop o a model to estimate loading on the cervical vertebrae in these positions.

Methods:Videos were taken of 7 Warmbloods at walk on a straight line in 5 positions, representing all HNPs during Warmblood training and competition. Markers were glued at 5 anatomical landmarks. Two‐dimensional angles and distances were determined from video frames for the 5 HNPs and statistically compared (P<0.05). A new simulation model was developed to estimate nuchal ligament cervical loading at these HNPs.

Results:The mean angles were significantly different between the 5 HNPs for the line between C1 and T6 with the horizontal and for the line connecting the facial crest (CF) and C1 with the vertical, while the vertical distance from CF to the lateral styloid process of the radius (PS) was significantly different between all 5 positions (P<0.05). The estimated nuchal ligament loading appeared to be largest at the origin of C2 for all HNPs, except for the ‘hyperextended’ HNP5; the ‘hyperflexed’ HNP4 showed the largest loading values on the nuchal ligament origins at all locations.

Conclusions:HNPs can be accurately quantified in the sagittal plane from angles and distances based on standard anatomical landmarks and home‐video captured images. Nuchal ligament loading showed the largest estimated values at its origin on C2 in hyperflexion (HNP4).

Potential relevance:Modelling opens further perspectives to eventually estimate loading for individual horses and thus ergonomically optimise their HNP, which may improve the welfare of the sport horse during training and competition.
Activity of the equine rectus abdominis and oblique external abdominal muscles measured by surface EMG during walk and trot on the treadmill
Authors: ZSOLDOS R. R. , KOTSCHWAR A. , KOTSCHWAR A. B. , RODRIGUEZ C. P. , PEHAM C. , LICKA T.
Published: November 2010

Reason for performing study: The rectus abdominis (RA) and oblique external abdominal (OEA) muscles are both part of the construction of the equine trunk and thought to be essential for the function of the spine during locomotion. Although RA activity at trot has previously been investigated, the relationship between OEA and RA at walk and trot has not yet been described.

Objectives: To document abdominal muscle activities during walk and trot, and test the hypothesis that muscle activity at walk would be smaller than at trot.

Materials and methods: Six horses (8–20 years old, 450–700 kg) were used for surface electromyography (EMG) measurements, with EMG electrodes placed caudal to the sternum (RA) and at the level of the 16th rib (OEA). On all hooves, the withers and the sacrum reflective markers were placed to determine motion cycles. Normal distribution of data was tested using a Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test and Student's t test was used to compare left‐right and walk‐trot differences (P<0.05).

Results: Minimum, maximum and mean EMG values recorded at walk were significantly higher at trot than at walk in all horses for OEA and in 5/6 horses for RA. At walk, EMG activity ranged from 8–44 mV (RA) and 7–54 mV (OEA). At trot, EMG activity ranged from 18–150 mV (RA) and 27–239 mV (OEA). There were statistically significant differences between maximum activities of left and right OEA and RA muscles at walk in all horses, and in 4/6 horses at trot.

Conclusions: Muscle activities of OEA and RA are smaller at walk than at trot. At walk, the OEA/RA ratio is lower than at trot. There are more significant correlations between muscle activities of both RA and OEA and limb movements at walk than at the trot.
Osseous spinal pathology and epaxial muscle ultrasonography in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: STUBBS N. C. , RIGGS C. M. , HODGES P. W. , JEFFCOTT L. B. , HODGSON D. R. , CLAYTON H. M. , Mc GOWAN C. M.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Themultifidusmuscle plays a key role in spinal stabilisation.Multifidusatrophy ipsilateral to the side of osseous pathology has been demonstrated in man and pigs but has not been investigated in horses.

Objectives:To measure cross‐sectional area (CSA) left/ right symmetry of equinemultifidusultrasonographically and relate asymmetry ofmultifiduswith osseous spinal pathology in Thoroughbred racehorses. We hypothesised that ipsilateralmultifidusCSA would be reduced when osseous pathological changes are present leading to left/right asymmetry in CSA.

Materials and methods:Twenty‐two racehorses presented for euthanasia for primary reasons other than back pain were examined clinically. Ultrasonographic images on left/right sides were acquired at 5 thoracolumbosacral levels and CSA's ofmultifidusorsacrocaudalis dorsaliscalculated. At necropsy, osseous pathological of the TL spine and pelvis were recorded by spinal level, anatomical site, and graded (0–3) according to severity. The mean typical measurement error in estimatingmultifidus/sacrocaudalis dorsalisCSA was used to determine the significance of left/right asymmetries. An association betweenmultifidusCSA asymmetry and asymmetrical grading of pathological lesions was sought using Pearson's χ2analysis.

Results:All horses had significant left/right asymmetry ofmultifidusCSA at >2 spinal levels, most commonly at L5 with total of 74 sites affected (22 horses). Seventeen horses had severe (grade 3) pathology, 16 of these had ipsilateral atrophy ofmultifidus/sacrocaudalis dorsalis. There was a significant association between pathological grade and degree ofmultifidusasymmetry.

Conclusions:Severe osseous pathological changes were common in this population of Thoroughbred racehorses and were associated with measurable left/right asymmetry inmultifidusat or close to the level of pathology.

Potential relevance:Ultrasonography ofmultifidusmay be a useful clinical tool in diagnosis of back problems in horses.
Specific immuno‐extraction followed by enzymatic detection (SIEFED) of myeloperoxidase and mitochondrial complex I in muscular microbiopsies: preliminary results in endurance horses
Authors: FRANCK T. , VOTION D.‐M. , CEUSTERS J. , De La REBIÈRE de POUYADE G. , MOUITHYS‐MICKALAD A. , NIESTEN A. , FRAIPONT A. , VAN ERCK E. , GOACHET A. G. , ROBERT C. , SERTEYN D.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Intense exercise in horses induces an increase of creatine kinase (CK) and stimulation of neutrophils which release the strong oxidant enzyme, myeloperoxidase (MPO) into the blood. It is not known whether active MPO is found in equine muscles and whether oxidant activity of neutrophils could affect muscular tissues and mitochondrial activity.

Objectives:Specific immuno‐extraction followed by enzymatic detection (SIEFED) methods will be employed for the first time to assess both the normal range of MPO and mitochondrial complex I (MCI) activities in equine muscular microbiopsies and to study the variation of these activities induced by endurance races.

Materials and methods:Forty‐six microbiopsies were taken from 8 endurance Arabian horses (age: 10 ± 2 years) in thetriceps brachii(n = 23) or in thegluteus mediusmuscle (n = 23). Myeloperoxidase and MCI activities were measured in muscle extracts by enzyme immunocapture assays or SIEFED methods. Further, 7 endurance horses were sampled in thetriceps brachiimuscle before (T0) and after (T1) a 120 km endurance race (mean speed: 15.4 ± 1.4 km/h).

Results:The 46 microbiopsies from 8 horses revealed mean values for active MPO concentration and MCI activity of 21 ± 14 ng/mg proteins and 0.0172 ± 0.0066 mOD/min/μg proteins, respectively. No significant difference was observed between the 2 muscles. In 3 out of the 7 horses sampled after exercise, the 120 km endurance race induced a severe increase of muscle MPO activity (+118 ± 45% vs. T0), a large decrease of MCI activity (−63 ± 18% vs. T0) associated with a high mean plasma CK level (4642 ± 658 iu/l). In the 4 remaining horses, the 120 km endurance race did not modify the MPO and MCI activities and moderately increased the plasma CK level.

Conclusions:Preliminary observations showed a possible link between MPO activity and mitochondrial functions.
Morphological, haemato‐biochemical and endocrine changes in young Standardbreds with ‘maladaptation’ to early training
Authors: LELEU C. , HAENTJENS F.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:The demands in the Standardbred trotters industry require young, still growing horses, to be trained well above light exercise level. During that period, the risk of occurrence of energy imbalance and maladaptation to training is high. In man, the lack of energy homeostasis is considered as the basic problem in the development of chronic fatigue.

Objective:To find objective biomarkers of early maladaptation to training in young racehorses under field conditions.

Materials and methods:Sixty‐five 2‐year‐old Standardbreds were followed during their first 3 months of training in 5 different training centres. Monthly measurement of morphological variables (weight, height at withers, body condition score, body composition), basic haemato‐biochemical variables and endocrine levels (testosterone, cortisol, thyroid hormones, leptin, IGF1, prolactin) were undertaken. Feeding levels and training programmes were also evaluated. At the end of the 3 month period, on the basis of an abnormal weight loss, 14 young horses were suspected of maladaptation to training (MT group). Morphological, haemato‐biochemical, endocrine changes were compared between MT group (n = 14) and control group (C group, n = 40). Analysis of variance was calculated to study the effects of time and maladaptation to training.

Results:Compared to C group, MT group showed a significant higher weight loss in relation to a higher loss of fat mass and body condition score (P<0.05). MT group presented higher GGT and white cell counts and lower red cell counts (P<0.05). Finally, MT group showed significant lower levels of T4 (P = 0.03) than C group.

Conclusion:Some young horses presented signs of energy imbalance which were also associated with haematobiochemical and endocrine changes. Those markers might be useful for identification of maladaptation to training.
Physiological measurements and prevalence of lower airway diseases in Trotters with dorsal displacement of the soft palate
Authors: COUROUCE‐MALBLANC A. , DENIAU V. , ROSSIGNOL F. , CORDE R. , LELEU C. , MAILLARD K. , PITEL P.‐H. , PRONOST S. , FORTIER G.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) is one of the most common obstructive conditions of the upper respiratory tract in the racehorse. This condition has a complex aetiology which may be caused or exacerbated by pharyngeal inflammation. Additionally, lower respiratory airway diseases may be associated with DDSP thereby contributing to exercise intolerance in these horses.

Objective:The aim of this study was to measure physiological variables during a standardised exercise test and to assess the prevalence and consequences of lower respiratory airway disease in horses with DDSP.

Methods:A total of 46 horses were included in this study: 22 in the control and 24 in the DDSP groups. All horses performed a SET with measurement of heart rate (HR) and blood lactate concentration. One hour post exercise, respiratory samples were collected for cytological and bacteriological analysis.

Results:During exercise, the DDSP group had higher blood lactate concentration than the control group. According to BAL results, 50 and 63% of control and DDSP group horses, respectively, had evidence of inflammatory airway disease (IAD). In the DDSP group, 42% of horses had a syndrome of tracheal inflammation (STI) with 71% of this group having bacteria isolated at >105 CFU/ml.

Conclusions:Horses with DDSP showed evidence of a high prevalence of IAD and STI with an associated positive bacteriology in 55% of the cases. Even if DDSP is treated by surgery, the authors' recommendation would be to investigate the possibility of lower respiratory airway problems which may also be impacting the horse's performance and/or surgery efficiency.
Assessment of the exercise tests used during overground endoscopy in UK Thoroughbred racehorses and how these may affect the diagnosis of dynamic upper respiratory tract obstructions
Authors: ALLEN K. J. , FRANKLIN S. H.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study: Overground endoscopy is being performed with increasing frequency in the UK. A previous study has shown that the type of exercise test may affect the diagnosis of upper respiratory tract (URT) obstructions. The successful clinical application of overground endoscopy systems requires understanding of appropriate field exercise testing protocols.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to report the exercise test parameters used during overground endoscopy in UK Thoroughbred racehorses and to investigate potential effects of these on the diagnosis of URT obstructions.

Methods: The exercise test parameters used and the endoscopic observations of the URT during exercise were recorded for 140 Thoroughbred racehorses referred for the investigation of abnormal respiratory noise and/or poor athletic performance.

Results: The exercise test parameters varied widely between horses. The presenting complaint was easiest to reproduce in horses with a history of abnormal noise in training and hardest to reproduce in those referred for investigation of poor performance with no abnormal noise. No associations between the presence or not of an URT obstruction and exercise test parameters was identified. For horses referred for abnormal noise during racing DDSP was more likely to be observed when longer distances were performed.

Conclusions: It is difficult to standardise exercise tests in the field when multiple premises are used and when training gallops differ markedly to racecourses. It was not possible to establish exercise test protocols which should be used for all Thoroughbred racehorses. Therefore, at present the best advice for horses which make abnormal noise during a race or have poor race performance, can only be to replicate race conditions as closely as possible. For horses that race over longer distances this will require the use of a circular gallops (e.g. racecourse) if only short gallops are available at the trainer's premises.
Metabolic changes in four beat gaited horses after field marcha simulation
Authors: WANDERLEY E. K. , MANSO FILHO H. C. , MANSO H. E. C. C. C. , SANTIAGO T. A. , McKEEVER K. H.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Mangalarga‐Marchador is a popular 4‐gaited Brazilian horse breed; however, there is little information about their metabolic and physiological response to exercise.

Objectives:To measure physiological and metabolic responses of the Mangalarga‐Marchador to a simulated marcha field test and to compare these responses between 2 types of marcha gaits (picada and batida).

Methods:Thirteen horses were used in the study and randomly assigned to either the picada or batida gait for the simulated marcha field test (speed ∼3.2 m/s; 30 min; load ∼80 kg).

Measurements:Included body composition, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), glucose (GLUC), lactate (LACT), packed cell volume (PCV), total plasma protein (TPP), albumin, urea, creatinine, total and HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, creatine kinase, alanine, glutamate and glutamine (GLN). Measurements were obtained pretest (control/fasting), immediately after simulation (T0), and 15 (T15), 30 (T30) and 240 (T240) min after the simulation. Lactate (LACT) was measured at T0, T15and T30. Data were analysed using ANOVA, Tukey's test andttests with significance set at P<0.05.

Results:Significant acute changes were observed in HR, RR, [GLUC], [LACT], [TPP], PCV and [GLN] (P<0.05) relative to control. Heart rate fell below 60 beats/min at T15and RR recovered to pretest values by T240. Significant increases in [GLUC], [LACT], PCV and [TPP] and a decrease in [GLN] were observed at T0. Treatment and interaction effects were also observed between marcha types and time of sampling for HR, RF, PCV, and [LACT] (P<0.05). These parameters were large in picada.

Conclusion:The simulation of field‐test produced changes in some physiological and blood parameters in marcha horses, with some degree of dehydration during recovery period. Also, it was demonstrated that picada horses spend more energy when compared with batida horses at the the same speed.

Potential relevance:Batida horses expend less energy when compared with picada horses, which will need special attention in their training and nutritional management.
Experimental mild pulmonary inflammation promotes the development of exercise‐induced pulmonary haemorrhage
Authors: McKANE S. A. , SLOCOMBE R. F.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Histological studies of exercise‐induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH) reveals inflammatory infiltrates within areas of lung that contain haemorrhage. This has resulted in the hypothesis that pulmonary inflammation could cause EIPH or contribute to an increased risk or severity of EIPH.

Objectives:To determine whether experimentally‐induced pulmonary inflammation predisposes the lung to haemorrhage during exercise, by evaluating the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cytology of normal and inflamed regions of lung following high speed treadmill exercise.

Materials and methods:Transendoscopic airway inoculations of 0.01% acetic acid were used to induce mild localised inflammation within bronchopulmonary segments. Horses underwent high speed exercise 24 h after inoculation. Following exercise, inoculated sites and corresponding segments in the opposite lung underwent BAL. The cytology results from inflamed and control bronchopulmonary segments were compared, using pairedttests.

Results:Erythrocytes were present in BAL samples from 12.5% (1/8) control segments compared with 75% (6/8) inoculated segments following exercise, indicating a significant increase (P = 0.04) in the relative risk of EIPH following the development of pulmonary inflammation. Samples from inoculated segments had significantly higher percentages and numbers of neutrophils (12.1 ± 1.0% and 601 ± 98 cells/μl) than control samples (4.3 ± 0.3% and 214 ± 52 cells/μl). Significantly higher erythrocyte numbers were observed in samples from inoculated segments (14,304 ± 6862 cells/μl) compared with control samples (3.5 ± 3.5 cells/μl).

Conclusions:The results showed inflammation increased the risk of developing pulmonary haemorrhage during exercise. These findings do not conflict with current theories on the common causes of EIPH, but suggest that care should be taken when recommending exercise in horses suspected to be suffering from pulmonary inflammatory disease. In addition, specific therapy to reduce pulmonary inflammation may benefit horses prone to the development of EIPH.
Reviewe: Genetics and genomics in equine exercise physiology: an overview of the new applications of molecular biology as positive and negative markers of performance and health
Authors: BARREY E.
Published: November 2010

Equine breeding selection has been developed by applying quantitative genetic methods for calculating the heritability of the complex traits such as performance in racing or sport competitions. With the great development of biotechnologies, equine molecular genetics has come of age. The recent sequencing of the equine genome by an international consortium was a major advance that will impact equine genomics in the near future. With the rapid progress in equine genetics, new applications in early performance evaluation and the detection of disease markers become available. Many new biomolecular tools will change management of horse selection, disease diagnosis and treatment. The purpose of this review is to present new developments in equine genetics and genomics for performance evaluation and health markers after a short summary of the previous knowledge about the genetic components of the exercise performance traits.
Clinical Effect of Additional Electroacupuncture on Thoracolumbar Intervertebral Disc Herniation in 80 Paraplegic Dogs
Authors: Han Hyun-Jung , Yoon Hun-Young , Kim Joon-Young , Jang Ha-Young , Lee Bora , Choi Seok Hwa , Jeong Soon-Wuk
Published: November 2010

The clinical efficacy of electroacupuncture and acupuncture in combination with medication for the treatment of thoracolumbar intervertebral disc herniation was investigated in paraplegic dogs with intact deep pain perception. To evaluate the additional effect of electroacupuncture, dogs treated with conventional medicines alone were compared to dogs treated with electroacupuncture and acupuncture and conventional medicine. Medical records of 80 dogs were reviewed for this investigation and classified into two groups undergoing different treatment methods: (1) treatment with conventional medicine alone (Group C, n = 37) and (2) treatment with conventional medicine combined with electroacupuncture and acupuncture (Group CE, n = 43). Prednisone was the conventional medicine and electroacupuncture was applied at GV07 and GV02-1 at 0.5–2.5 mV, mixed Hz of 2 and 15 Hz for 25–30 min. Acupuncture was performed locally at urinary bladder meridian points near the lesion, and bilaterally distantly at GB30, GB34, and ST36. Treatment efficacy was evaluated by post-operative neurologic function, ambulation, relapse, complication, and urinary function. Ambulation recovery was more prevalent in Group CE than Group C ( p = 0.01) and recovery of ambulation and back pain relief time was shorter in Group CE compared to Group C ( p = 0.011 and 0.001, respectively). Relapse rate was significantly lower in Group CE ( p = 0.031). The results suggest that a combination of electroacupuncture and acupuncture with conventional medicine is more effective than conventional medicine alone in recovering ambulation, relieving back pain, and decreasing relapse. Electroacupuncture and acupuncture is thus a reasonable option for the treatment of intervertebral disc herniation in paraplegic dogs with intact deep pain perception.
CONFORMAL PHASE TRANSITION IN QCD LIKE THEORIES AND BEYOND
Authors: MIRANSKY V. A.
Published: November 2010

The dynamics with an infrared stable fixed point in the conformal window in QCD like theories with a relatively large number of fermion flavors is reviewed. The emphasis is on the description of a clear signature for the conformal window, which in particular can be useful for lattice computer simulations of these gauge theories.
CONFORMAL HIGGS, OR TECHNI-DILATON — COMPOSITE HIGGS NEAR CONFORMALITY
Authors: YAMAWAKI KOICHI
Published: November 2010

In contrast to the folklore that Technicolor (TC) is a "Higgsless theory", we shall discuss existence of a composite Higgs boson, Techni-Dilaton (TD), a pseudo-Nambu-Goldstone boson of the scale invariance in the Scale-invariant/Walking/Conformal TC (SWC TC) which generates a large anomalous dimension γm ≃ 1 in a wide region from the dynamical mass [Formula: see text] of the techni-fermion all the way up to the intrinsic scale ΛTC of the SWC TC (analogue of ΛQCD), where ΛTC is taken typically as the scale of the Extended TC scale Λ ETC : Λ TC ≃ Λ ETC ~ 103 TeV (≫ m). All the techni-hadrons have mass on the same order [Formula: see text], which in SWC TC is extremely smaller than the intrinsic scale Λ TC ≃ Λ ETC , in sharp contrast to QCD where both are of the same order. The mass of TD arises from the non-perturbative scale anomaly associated with the techni-fermion mass generation and is typically 500-600 GeV, even smaller than other techni-hadrons of the same order of [Formula: see text], in another contrast to QCD which is believed to have no scalar [Formula: see text] bound state lighter than other hadrons. We discuss the TD mass in various methods, Gauged NJL model via ladder Schwinger-Dyson (SD) equation, straightforward calculations in the ladder SD/ Bethe-Salpeter equation, and the holographic approach including techni-gluon condensate. The TD may be discovered in LHC.
Design of photosensitizer/cyclodextrin nanoassemblies: spectroscopy, intracellular delivery and photodamage
Authors: Mazzaglia Antonino , Micali Norberto , Scolaro Luigi Monsù , Sciortino Maria Teresa , Sortino Salvatore , Villari Valentina
Published: November 2010

The engineering of multifunctional nanoparticles carrying photosensitizer drugs (PS) and exposing binding groups for cellular receptors is of increasing interest in therapeutics and diagnostics applications. Natural and modified cyclodextrins (CDs) offer useful scaffolds to bind PS guests by supramolecular interactions. In particular, amphiphilic β-CDs, which form nanoaggregates of diverse shape and size according to the polarity of substituent groups on the rims, include in their different compartments as CD cavity, hydrophilic and hydrophobic portion, PS with different physicochemical properties. PS embedded in cationic amphiphilic CD nanoassemblies are effective in inducing photodynamic damage in cancer cells. For a carrier/PS system to be used in photodynamic therapy (PDT) or photodynamic diagnosis (PDD), the appropriate combination of the delivery characteristics with the preservation of the photodynamic activity of the PS is strictly required. Homogeneous multilayer films based on cationic amphiphilic β-CD entrapping anionic porphyrins can be constructed to exploit interfacial electrostatic interactions between the two components. The capability of CDs to generate restricted microenvironments for PS which can facilitate photoinduced energy transfer with suitable donor molecules was investigated for potential application in fluorescence diagnosis. Besides, recent findings suggest that PDT could represent a useful tool for properly addressing an alternative approach for killing pathogens and combating infections at a clinical level. Finally, modified CDs can bind gold nanoparticles, yielding hybrid organic/inorganic nanoparticles which were studied in water solution and after casting on solid substrates. These binary assemblies could further encapsulate PS or other conventional drugs, opening new intriguing routes on multimodal therapy.
Cross-fault sealing, baffling and fluid flow in 3D geological models: tools for analysis, visualization and interpretation
Authors: Freeman S. R. , Harris S. D. , Knipe R. J.
Published: November 2010

The effective computation and visualization of cross-fault sealing or flow, and parameters that infer or control that distribution, is a key step in the production of more reliable exploration and production simulation models. A better understanding of the impact of fault-related flow or baffling through visualization can lead to the development of more robust and useful geological models that better define the likely range in flow behaviour. A range of visualization tools are available, from the traditional fault plane juxtaposition map to the vector visualization of cross-fault fluid flux. Each tool has its applications and limitations.

In this contribution we discuss the application of these different techniques and highlight situations where these are particularly successful. A number of existing visualization approaches will be reviewed and improvements to those techniques are shown. A series of existing property visualization techniques are critiqued, such as the imaging of shale gouge ratio (SGR) and fault transmissibility multipliers (TMs) on the fault faces, both of which are limited in their ability to act as a proxy for cross-fault fluid flux in many circumstances. Fault rock property visualizations, such as hydraulic resistance and fault transmissibility, are presented. More direct and hence more powerful indications of probable cross-fault fluid flux are also described, such as the effective cross-fault transmissibility (ECFT) and the effective cross-fault permeability (ECFP). These static proxies for cross-fault fluid flux are compared against back-calculated and visualized cross-fault fluid flux values derived from either streamline or full flow simulation data. The ECFT is shown to provide a useful and rapid indication of likely fluid flux from the static model; however, the direct imaging of cross-fault fluid flux derived from simulation results allows for a far better understanding of how the faults have contributed to the reservoir flow simulation result.

Visualizations of the fault- and flow-related properties: (a) on the fault face; (b) in the grid cells adjacent to the fault face; (c) as vectors; or (d) as fault-wide summations, all provide useful insights for different parts of the reservoir evaluation workflow.

This contribution highlights a series of new and efficient techniques to image and hence improve the understanding and modelling of fault sealing in both exploration and production settings.
Reservoir compartmentalization: get it before it gets you
Authors: Smalley P. C. , Muggeridge A. H.
Published: November 2010

This paper examines the impact of compartmentalization on oil recovery, the importance of identifying it during field appraisal, and methods to evaluate it using fluid data. The impact on recovery factor is highlighted using a global database of oil field recovery factors as a function of reservoir complexity and compartmentalization, and emphasized in two case studies. The effect of compartmentalization on oil recovery demonstrates the benefit in characterizing compartmentalization correctly during appraisal, so that the field can be developed in an optimal manner.

Early characterization of field compartmentalization requires making maximum use of available fluid data during appraisal. When interpreting fluid data to identify compartmentalization, it is critical to take into account the different time-scales for various fluid signals (pressure, contacts, density, composition) to equilibrate, and to be able to extrapolate to field production time-scales. This is essential to avoid false negatives (compartments assumed absent due to homogeneous fluid properties, when in fact fluids would have equilibrated even in the presence of compartments), false positives (where fluid differences are interpreted as evidence of compartments when in fact there has not been sufficient time for equilibration to occur), and to resolve apparently conflicting data (some fluid indicators are at equilibrium, others are not). Rigorous simulation of fluid equilibration is a complex multiphase multidimensional process, and is generally reserved for specialist in-depth studies. However, order-of-magnitude evaluations can be made using analytical solutions in minutes, allowing many ‘what-if’ scenarios to be considered and uncertainty to be assessed.

Analytical solutions for estimating the time required for spatially-varying fluid properties to revert to steady state distributions are reviewed. All these mixing processes are shown to be diffusive in character. An effective diffusion coefficient for each process can be calculated from the reservoir rock and fluid properties. For an isothermal system, the different time-scales and distances for each fluid‐property variation to attain equilibrium can be compared on a single graph. Where the time elapsed since fluid‐perturbation is known, analytical solutions can be used to estimate the degree of compartmentalization (e.g. permeability of barriers). These solutions lend themselves to the development of simple practical compartment-assessment tools for industry practitioners.
Knowledge and Beliefs about Smoking and Cancer among Women in Five European Countries
Authors: Li Qian , Dresler Carolyn , Heck Julia E. , Allwright Shane , Haglund Margaretha , Sanchez Sara , Kralikova Eva , Stucker Isabelle , Tamang Elizabeth , Gritz Ellen R. , Hashibe Mia
Published: November 2010

Background: Lung cancer mortality in women is increasing across Europe, reflecting the alarming increase in smoking prevalence. Understanding women's perception of smoking may help to identify ways to reduce its prevalence and prevent uptake of smoking. The aim of this study was to examine factors associated with knowledge and beliefs about smoking and cancer among European women.

Methods: A cross-sectional landline telephone survey on health attitudes and knowledge was conducted in five European countries: France, Ireland, Italy, the Czech Republic, and Sweden. A general linear modeling was used to explore the factors related to knowledge and beliefs about smoking and cancer.

Results: A total of 5,000 women were interviewed (1,000 women from each country). The mean knowledge and belief scores about smoking and cancer were lower in current smokers than those of never and former smokers (P < 0.05). Women with above-the-median income (P = 0.001) and women who held skilled occupations seemed to be more knowledgeable about tobacco health risks (P < 0.001). The number of friends and family who smoked was inversely associated with knowledge on the harmful effects of tobacco (P = 0.001). Swedish women were the most knowledgeable about tobacco-related cancer risk, whereas in France and Italy, current smokers were less knowledgeable.

Conclusions: Knowledge and beliefs about cancer and smoking varied significantly by smoking status.

Impact: Results emphasize the need to develop health education programs that enhance cancer knowledge among women who currently smoke and are in low socioeconomic groups. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2811–20. ©2010 AACR.
Body Size, Weight Change, and Risk of Colon Cancer
Authors: Bassett Julie K. , Severi Gianluca , English Dallas R. , Baglietto Laura , Krishnan Kavitha , Hopper John L. , Giles Graham G.
Published: November 2010

Background: Epidemiologic studies have consistently reported positive associations between obesity and colon cancer risk for men, but the evidence is less consistent for women. Few studies have investigated effects of weight change on colon cancer risk.

Methods: Using the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study, which recruited men and women mostly in 40 to 69 years of age, we investigated associations between weight and body mass index (BMI) at age 18 years and at study entry and weight change since age 18 years and colon cancer. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using Cox regression.

Results: During follow-up of 16,188 men and 23,438 women for 14 years on average, we ascertained 569 incident colon cancers. Weight and BMI at study entry were positively associated with colon cancer risk for men [HR, 1.12 (95% CI, 1.04-1.21) per 5-kg increment; HR, 1.39 (95% CI, 1.12-1.71) per 5 kg/m2], but not women. Risk of colon cancer was not associated with weight or BMI at age 18 years. Adult weight change was positively associated with colon cancer risk for men (HR, 1.11 per 5-kg increment; 95% CI, 1.03-1.20), but not women (HR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.94-1.07). Men who gained ≥20 kg from age 18 had an increased risk of colon cancer compared with men whose weight was stable (HR, 1.47; 95% CI, 0.94-2.31).

Conclusion: Weight gain during adult life increases men's risk of colon cancer.

Impact: Avoiding excessive weight gain might help reduce colon cancer risk for men. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2978–86. ©2010 AACR.
Association of Albuminuria and Cancer Mortality
Authors: Lin Yu-Sheng , Chiu Fu-Chun , Lin Jou-Wei , Hwang Juey-Jen , Caffrey James L.
Published: November 2010

Background: The objective was to evaluate the association of albuminuria with cancer mortalities in adults ages 50 and older.

Methods: A total of 6,112 adults ages 50 years and above without a history of cancer at baseline in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III, 1988-1994) were included in the analysis. Albuminuria was measured with urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) in mg/mmol. Cancer mortality was obtained from the NHANES III–linked follow-up database (up to December 31, 2006). Cox-regression models were used to examine the associations of interest.

Results: Albuminuria was present in 705 men (17.5%) and 592 women (14.3%). During an average follow-up of 149 months, 613 subjects died of cancers including 184 lung cancers, 65 colorectal cancers, 55 prostate cancers, and 309 other cancers. There was an increased mortality risk associated with logarithmically transformed UACR for all-cancer [relative risk (RR), 1.20; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.06-1.36], lung cancer (RR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.05-1.43), and prostate cancer mortality (RR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.01-1.95) in men. No associations between UACR and cancer were apparent in women.

Conclusions: The analysis shows that albuminuria is associated with an increased risk of cancer death, specifically for all-cause, lung, and prostate cancers in men ages 50 and above.

Impact: Further studies are needed to explore the relationship between albuminuria and specific cancers. Understanding the biological link between albuminuria and cancer will be critical for determining whether albuminuria represents an early marker or a potential therapeutic target. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2950–7. ©2010 AACR.
No Effect of Exercise on Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I, Insulin, and Glucose in Young Women Participating in a 16-Week Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Arikawa Andrea Y. , Kurzer Mindy S. , Thomas William , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: November 2010

Introduction: Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) and IGF binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) have been associated with increased risk of breast cancer.

Methods: We report our findings on the effects of 16 weeks of aerobic exercise on IGF axis proteins, insulin, glucose, and insulin resistance of 319 young sedentary women. Demographics, health surveys, body composition, dietary intake, and blood samples were collected at baseline and 16 weeks. IGF-I and IGFBP-1, IGFBP-2, and IGFBP-3 were measured by ELISA.

Results: Exercise adherence was 88%. The dropout rates for the exercise and control groups were 21.7% and 14.5%, respectively. There was a small significant change from baseline in IGFBP-3 concentrations. IGFBP-3 levels decreased in controls and increased in exercisers. The between-group difference was significant. No other changes were noted.

Conclusion: Sixteen weeks of exercise had minimum or no effect on IGF proteins of young women.

Impact: Our study supports findings from previous studies conducted in older populations and raises the question of what type of intervention is needed to change circulating levels of IGF proteins in humans. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2987–90. ©2010 AACR.
Chemoprevention of Pancreatic Cancer: Ready for the Clinic?
Authors: Logsdon Craig D. , Abbruzzese James L.
Published: November 2010

Advances in our molecular, clinical, and epidemiologic understanding of the risk and development of pancreatic cancer offer hope for preventing this disease, which is largely intractable once developed. This perspective on provocative, genetically engineered mouse model work reported by Mohammed et al. (beginning on page 1417 in this issue of the journal) examines the prospects for pancreatic cancer chemoprevention with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). Despite having limited value in advanced pancreatic cancer, EGFR TKIs show promise in the setting of early pancreatic carcinogenesis. Cancer Prev Res; 3(11); 1375–8. ©2010 AACR.