bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The rise and fall of Leptospermum laevigatum: plant community change associated with the invasion and senescence of a range‐expanding native species
Authors: O'Loughlin Luke S. , Green Peter T. , Morgan John W.
Published: September 2014

Question

Shrub invasions often alter ground layer vegetation but the permanence of these changes is sometimes unclear. We asked: (i) do affected communities recover to their former state when invading species decline; (ii) do plant species density and composition change through the successional sequence of shrub invasion, dominance and decline; and, if yes, (iii) is change dependent on the scale of observation?

Location

Yanakie Isthmus, Wilsons Promontory National Park, southeastern Victoria, Australia.

Methods

We use a nested quadrat approach along a chronosequence of invasion states (uninvaded, invaded, senescent) to document composition and diversity of coastal grassy woodland in response to invasion by the range‐expanding native shrub Leptospermum laevigatum (Myrtaceae) across multiple spatial scales. Non‐metric multidimensional scaling and species–area curves were used to assess changes in vegetation and the ability of invaded communities to return to ‘uninvaded’ states after the senescence of Leptospermum.

Results

Shrub invasion did not lead to a decline in total species density. However, there was a significant shift in species composition, suggesting species replacement. Canopy gaps created by Leptospermum senescence had significantly higher species density at a large scale of observation (256 m2), but not at any of the smaller scales. Species composition within Leptospermum gaps was initially highly variable and significantly dissimilar to that prior to gap creation. With increasing time‐since‐gap creation, floristic composition became less varied and more similar to the uninvaded state, but the oldest gaps were still compositionally different to the uninvaded state. These results were coupled with decreases in light, soil nitrate and soil moisture following invasion, and an increase in those variables following the creation of tree‐fall gaps.

Conclusions

Community composition was positively influenced by the creation of gaps within an otherwise shrub‐dominated ecosystem. Gaps represent the removal of potential inhibitory influences created by the dominant species and permit the return of the system to that more similar the uninvaded state. Gaps also increased heterogeneity in the landscape that promoted species diversity in an otherwise uniform landscape. These patterns were scale‐invariant.
Bosutinib versus imatinib in newly diagnosed chronic‐phase chronic myeloid leukaemia: results from the 24‐month follow‐up of the BELA trial
Authors: Brümmendorf Tim H. , Cortes Jorge E. , de Souza Cármino Antonio , Guilhot Francois , Duvillié Ladan , Pavlov Dmitri , Gogat Karïn , Countouriotis Athena M. , Gambacorti‐Passerini Carlo
Published: September 2014

Bosutinib is an oral, dual SRC/ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor for resistant/intolerant chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). We assessed the efficacy and safety of bosutinib 500 mg/d (n = 250) versus imatinib 400 mg/d (n = 252) after >24 months from accrual completion in newly diagnosed chronic phase (CP)‐CML (Bosutinib Efficacy and Safety in Newly Diagnosed CML trial [BELA]). Cumulative complete cytogenetic response (CCyR) rates by 24 months were similar (bosutinib, 79%; imatinib, 80%); cumulative major molecular response (MMR) rates were 59% for bosutinib and 49% for imatinib. Responses were durable; 151/197 vs. 172/204 and 125/153 vs. 117/131 responders remained on treatment and maintained CCyR and MMR, respectively. Since the 12‐month primary analysis, no new accelerated‐/blast‐phase transformations occurred with bosutinib; four occurred with imatinib. Early response (BCR‐ABL1/ABL1 ≤ 10%, 3 months) was associated with better CCyR and MMR rates by 12 and 24 months (both arms). Gastrointestinal events and liver function test elevations were more common, and neutropenia, musculoskeletal events and oedema were less common with bosutinib. Discontinuations due to adverse events were more common with bosutinib versus imatinib (most commonly alanine aminotransferase elevation: 4% vs. <1%); most occurred within the first 12 months. Cardiovascular adverse events were similar in both arms. Bosutinib continues to demonstrate good efficacy and manageable tolerability in newly diagnosed CP‐CML patients.
Dueños,Duendes,Bichos: Non‐Human Agents and the Politics of Place‐Making in a Bolivian Guaraní Community
Authors: GROKE VERONIKA
Published: September 2014

The article looks at the interactions between the inhabitants of a community ofGuaraní people in theBolivian eastern lowlands and spirit entities found in the forest that forms part of the community's lands. Understanding these interactions as a form of intra‐communal politics, the article engages with the issue of landownership as an ongoing process of negotiation between two different sets of owners. This presents a vision of the political relations between people and spirit beings that is opposed to the currently dominant ontological vision which would put these distinct entities into defined (apolitical) places within a unified cosmovision.
Why do governments use pay for performance? Contrasting theories and interview evidence
Authors: Atkinson Michael M. , Fulton Murray , Kim Boa
Published: September 2014

InCanada, pay‐for‐performance (PFP) systems to compensate senior public servants have been established in several jurisdictions despite arguments by academics who doubt their efficacy in public sector environments characterized by high levels of intrinsic motivation. This article traces the pattern ofPFPinCanada and distinguishes among “aggressive,” “passive,” and “reluctant” regimes. It explores whyPFPis growing in popularity despite its acknowledged limitations. We canvass three theoretical perspectives and review evidence from interviews with key officials in a number of jurisdictions. The article contributes to our knowledge of managerial innovations by revealing the variety of motivations behindPFP.
The three dimensions of universal Medicare in Canada
Authors: Marchildon Gregory P.
Published: September 2014

The history of Canadian Medicare is reviewed to demonstrate the extent to which non‐universal alternatives almost became the norm in Canada. While this historical survey focuses on the most critical dimension of universal coverage – the drive to have all Canadians insured on the same terms and conditions – it also addresses the second and third dimensions of universality, the extent of user fees and the breadth of coverage, respectively. However, that there is no single national narrative on health coverage, in part because of the highly decentralized nature of the Canadian health system. Ultimately, public‐sector health system coverage is a policy decision taken at the sub‐national level by the provincial rather than the federal government.
Top‐end salaries and theOntario public sector
Authors: Dobrescu Vlad , Mirkovic Stefan , Mohsenzadeh Shabnam , Veall Michael R.
Published: September 2014

Gomez andWald (2010) found thatOntario salary disclosure did not restrain top university salaries. We provide evidence that supports and extends this conclusion by finding that since 1996, with the exception of school boards,Ontario public sector top salaries have increased at about the same rate as top‐end salaries for the province as a whole. The time path in top public sector salaries is much smoother, suggesting short‐run insulation from private sector markets. We consider alternative theories of the surge in top‐end incomes, noting that the rise inOntario top public salaries had no direct link with international trade and occurred without declining unionization. One possibility is that reduced top marginal tax rates improved the bargaining position of high‐salaried employees by enhancing the gains of outside offers.
Gender‐specific co‐activation of arginine vasopressin and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis during stress
Authors: Kacheva S. , Kolk K. , Morgenthaler N.G. , Brabant G. , Karges W.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To study the interaction between copeptin and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) activation in men and women during hypoglycaemic stress.

Design and patients

A prospective study in 118 patients (mean age 47·7 ± 13·6 years, n = 52 women) undergoing insulin tolerance testing for suspected pituitary dysfunction.

Measurements

Serum copeptin was measured in serially collected blood samples and assessed in relation to ACTH, cortisol and other endocrine parameters.

Results

Symptomatic hypoglycaemia (mean glucose nadir, 1·6 ± 0·5 mmol/l) resulted in a rapid significant increase of serum copeptin. Individuals with impaired pituitary function had lower stress‐induced copeptin levels (median, 6·26 pmol/l) than patients with intact pituitary (8·46 pmol/l, P < 0·001). A weak overall correlation between stress‐induced copeptin and cortisol levels was observed (rs = 0·31, P < 0·001). In female individuals, there was a positive correlation between stress‐induced copeptin and ACTH (rs = 0·47, P < 0·001) or cortisol levels (rs = 0·42, P = 0·002), while in males, no correlation with ACTH levels (rs = 0·03, P = 0·75) and poor correlation with cortisol levels (rs = 0·24, P = 0·045) was observed. Patients with central diabetes insipidus showed lowest baseline (2·20 pmol/l) and stimulated copeptin levels (3·68 pmol/l).

Conclusions

The data from this study indicate that stress‐induced release of AVP in women, but not in men, is linked to the co‐activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal system.
Timelines in the management of adrenal crisis – targets, limits and reality
Authors: Hahner Stefanie , Hemmelmann Nina , Quinkler Marcus , Beuschlein Felix , Spinnler Christina , Allolio Bruno
Published: September 2014

Objective

To evaluate current management timelines in adrenal crisis (AC) and to establish time targets and time limits for emergency treatment.

Design/patients

Patients from a prospective study who had reported an AC (n = 46) were contacted and asked about management of their AC. A survey among 24 European endocrinologists collected expert recommendations concerning time targets and time limits for contact–arrival time of emergency health professionals and presentation of emergency card–glucocorticoid (GC) injection time.

Results

Median time targets and time limits regarded by experts as adequate for contact–arrival time were 45 and 90 min, respectively, and for card–injection time 15 and 30 min, respectively. Thirty‐seven of 46 patients could be interviewed. All patients were equipped with an emergency card but only 23 (62%) with an emergency kit. Seven patients (19%) were trained in GC self‐injection. The median time interval between contacting a health professional and arrival was 20 min (range 2–2880 min); ≤45 min: n = 32 (86%), <90 min: n = 34 (92%). The median time interval between arrival and administration of GC was 30 min (range 2–2400 min); ≤15 min: n = 17 (46%), ≤30 min: n = 20 (54%).

Conclusion

While the time between contacting health professionals and their arrival was within the limits set by experts, initiation of GC administration was delayed in 46% of patients. Thus, improved management of AC needs to focus on shortening the presentation of card–injection time. Given the current reality in the management of AC, promotion of self‐injection of GC (s.c. or i.m.) is warranted.
Understanding the Supports of and Challenges to Community Engagement in the CTSAs
Authors: Holzer Jessica , Kass Nancy
Published: September 2014

Background

The Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) program has raised the profile and the available funding for engagement in biomedical research. Such increased funding and attention may address known barriers to engagement. However, little work has been done to describe experiences across multiple CTSAs, especially how the CTSA structure supports or challenges engagement.

Objective

We sought to understand the supports and challenges experienced by multiple CTSAs as they pursued community engagement. This knowledge may help guide future efforts to support and enhance community engagement in biomedical research.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews with CTSA community engagement core leaders and staff from the 2006 cohort of CTSAs (n = 12).

Results

A total of 17 interviews with respondents from nine institutions identified three support themes, including: funding, existing relationships with communities, and leadership and a partnership approach at the institution. Six challenge themes arose: need for capacity development, lack of positive relationships with communities, lack of leadership, funding constraints, time and staff constraints, and unsustainable models.

Conclusion

The CTSAs have brought much‐needed attention to community engagement in research, but more can be done to adequately support engagement. Challenges remain that need to be addressed to achieve the potential benefits of engagement.
Musical rhythm discrimination explains individual differences in grammar skills in children
Authors: Gordon Reyna L. , Shivers Carolyn M. , Wieland Elizabeth A. , Kotz Sonja A. , Yoder Paul J. , Devin McAuley J.
Published: September 2014

This study considered a relation between rhythm perception skills and individual differences in phonological awareness and grammar abilities, which are two language skills crucial for academic achievement. Twenty‐five typically developing 6‐year‐old children were given standardized assessments of rhythm perception, phonological awareness, morpho‐syntactic competence, and non‐verbal cognitive ability. Rhythm perception accounted for 48% of the variance in morpho‐syntactic competence after controlling for non‐verbal IQ, socioeconomic status, and prior musical activities. Children with higher phonological awareness scores were better able to discriminate complex rhythms than children with lower scores, but not after controlling for IQ. This study is the first to show a relation between rhythm perception skills and morpho‐syntactic production in children with typical language development. These findings extend the literature showing substantial overlap of neurocognitive resources for processing music and language.

A video abstract of this article can be viewed at: http://youtu.be/_lO692qHDNg
The promotion of recovery through rehabilitation after acquired brain injury in children
Authors: Forsyth Rob , Basu Anna
Published: September 2014

A degree of motor recovery is typically seen after acquired brain injury in children. The extent to which rehabilitation efforts can claim credit for this is disputed. Strong correlations between late impairment outcomes and early severity and impairment indices are seen both in adults and children. These correlations have been interpreted by some as evidence that recovery is largely intrinsic and that any additional rehabilitation effects are small. Such views are belied by published animal studies demonstrating the possibility of large rehabilitation effects. Animal models suggest that to achieve similar rehabilitation treatment effect sizes in clinical practice, rehabilitation ‘doses’ should be greater, rehabilitation efforts should start sooner, and premature accommodation of impairment should be avoided.
Twice‐daily dapagliflozin co‐administered with metformin in type 2 diabetes: a 16‐week randomized, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Schumm‐Draeger P.‐M. , Burgess L. , Korányi L. , Hruba V. , Hamer‐Maansson J. E. , de Bruin T. W. A.
Published: September 2014

Aims

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of twice‐daily dosing of dapagliflozin and metformin, exploring the feasibility of a fixed‐dose combination.

Methods

In this 16‐week, phase III, randomized, double‐blind placebo‐controlled study, adults who were receiving metformin administered twice daily (≥1500 mg/day) and had inadequate glycaemic control were randomized 1 : 1 : 1 : 1 to receive dapagliflozin twice daily (2.5 or 5 mg), placebo or dapagliflozin 10 mg once daily (which was included as a benchmark). The primary endpoint was change from baseline glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level. Secondary endpoints included changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) level and body weight.

Results

Four hundred adults were randomized to dapagliflozin (2.5 mg twice daily, 5 mg twice daily, 10 mg once daily) or placebo co‐administered with metformin twice daily. At 16 weeks, the adjusted mean change in HbA1c from baseline was significantly reduced in the dapagliflozin 2.5 mg twice daily and 5 mg twice daily groups versus placebo (−0.52 vs. −0.30%, p = 0.0106 and −0.65% vs. −0.30%, p < 0.0001). There were also significantly greater improvements for dapagliflozin twice daily groups versus placebo in FPG body weight and achievement of HbA1c level of <7%. Efficacy outcomes for dapagliflozin twice daily were numerically similar to those for dapagliflozin once daily. Dapagliflozin twice daily was well tolerated.

Conclusions

Dapagliflozin 2.5 or 5 mg twice daily added to metformin was effective in reducing glycaemic levels in patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled with metformin alone. This study supports the development of a fixed‐dose combination regimen.
Pioglitazone treatment restores in vivo muscle oxidative capacity in a rat model of diabetes
Authors: Wessels B. , Ciapaite J. , van den Broek N. M. A. , Houten S. M. , Nicolay K. , Prompers J. J.
Published: September 2014

Aim

To determine the effect of pioglitazone treatment on in vivo and ex vivo muscle mitochondrial function in a rat model of diabetes.

Methods

Both the lean, healthy rats and the obese, diabetic rats are Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF) rats. The homozygous fa/fa ZDF rats are obese and diabetic. The heterozygous fa/+ ZDF rats are lean and healthy. Diabetic Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats were treated with either pioglitazone (30 mg/kg/day) or water as a control (n = 6 per group), for 2 weeks. In vivo 1H and 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy was performed on skeletal muscle to assess intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) content and muscle oxidative capacity, respectively. Ex vivo muscle mitochondrial respiratory capacity was evaluated using high‐resolution respirometry. In addition, several markers of mitochondrial content were determined.

Results

IMCL content was 14‐fold higher and in vivo muscle oxidative capacity was 26% lower in diabetic rats compared with lean rats, which was, however, not caused by impairments of ex vivo mitochondrial respiratory capacity or a lower mitochondrial content. Pioglitazone treatment restored in vivo muscle oxidative capacity in diabetic rats to the level of lean controls. This amelioration was not accompanied by an increase in mitochondrial content or ex vivo mitochondrial respiratory capacity, but rather was paralleled by an improvement in lipid homeostasis, that is lowering of plasma triglycerides and muscle lipid and long‐chain acylcarnitine content.

Conclusion

Diminished in vivo muscle oxidative capacity in diabetic rats results from mitochondrial lipid overload and can be alleviated by redirecting the lipids from the muscle into adipose tissue using pioglitazone treatment.
Gonad morphogenesis defects drive hybrid male sterility in asymmetric hybrid breakdown of Caenorhabditis nematodes
Authors: Dey Alivia , Jin Qi , Chen Yen‐Chu , Cutter Asher D.
Published: September 2014

Determining the causes and evolution of reproductive barriers to gene flow between populations, speciation, is the key to understanding the origin of diversity in nature. Many species manifest hybrid breakdown when they intercross, characterized by increasingly exacerbated problems in later generations of hybrids. Recently, Caenorhabditis nematodes have emerged as a genetic model for studying speciation, and here we investigate the nature and causes of hybrid breakdown between Caenorhabditis remanei and C. latens. We quantify partial F1 hybrid inviability and extensive F2 hybrid inviability; the ∼75% F2 embryonic arrest occurs primarily during gastrulation or embryonic elongation. Moreover, F1 hybrid males exhibit Haldane's rule asymmetrically for both sterility and inviability, being strongest when C. remanei serves as maternal parent. We show that the mechanism by which sterile hybrid males are incapable of transferring sperm or a copulatory plug involves defective gonad morphogenesis, which we hypothesize results from linker cell defects in migration and/or cell death during development. This first documented case of partial hybrid male sterility in Caenorhabditis follows expectations of Darwin's corollary to Haldane's rule for asymmetric male fitness, providing a powerful foundation for molecular dissection of intrinsic reproductive barriers and divergence of genetic pathways controlling organ morphogenesis.
Endocrinopathies, metabolic disorders, and iron overload in major and intermedia thalassemia: serum ferritin as diagnostic and predictive marker associated with liver and cardiac T2* MRI assessment
Authors: Chirico Valeria , Rigoli Luciana , Lacquaniti Antonio , Salpietro Vincenzo , Piraino Basilia , Amorini Maria , Salpietro Carmelo , Arrigo Teresa
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Endocrinopathies and metabolic disorders‐characterized β thalassemic (βT) patients and the prevention and treatment of these comorbidities are important targets to be achieved. The aim of the study was to analyze the diagnostic and prognostic role of ferritin for endocrinopathies and metabolic disorders in βT patients. The ability of iron chelators to treat iron overload and to prevent or reverse metabolic disorders and endocrinopathies was also evaluated.

Patients and methods

Seventy‐two βT patients were treated with different chelation strategies during the study. Receiver operating characteristics analysis was employed to calculate the area under the curve for serum ferritin to find the best cutoff values capable of identifying endocrine dysfunction in thalassemic patients. Kaplan–Meier curves were generated to assess the incidence of endocrinopathy. Adjusted risk estimates for endocrinopathy were calculated using univariate followed by multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis.

Results

High ferritin levels were observed in patients with hypothyroidism [1500 (872.5–2336.5) μg/L], hypogonadism [878 (334–2010) μg/L], and in patients with hypoparathyroidism or osteoporosis [834 (367–1857) μg/L]. A strict correlation between ferritin and T2* magnetic resonance imaging of heart (r = −0.64; P:0.0006) and liver (r = −0.40; P:0.03) values was observed. Patients with ferritin values above 1800 μg/L experienced a significantly faster evolution to hypothyroidism [log‐rank (χ2):7.7; P = 0.005], hypogonadism [log‐rank (χ2):10.7; P = 0.001], and multiple endocrinopathies [log‐rank (χ2):5.72; P = 0.02]. Ferritin predicted high risk of endocrine dysfunction independently of confounding factors (HR:1.23; P < 0.0001). The intensification of chelation therapy led to an amelioration of hypothyroidism.

Conclusions

Ferritin represents a prognostic marker for βT patients and a predictive factor for progression to endocrine dysfunctions. Intensive chelation therapy allows the reversibility of hypothyroidism.
Failure matters: unsuccessful cytogenetics and unperformed cytogenetics are associated with a poor prognosis in a population‐based series of acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Lazarevic Vladimir , Hörstedt Ann‐Sofi , Johansson Bertil , Antunovic Petar , Billström Rolf , Derolf Åsa , Lehmann Sören , Möllgård Lars , Peterson Stefan , Stockelberg Dick , Uggla Bertil , Vennström Lovisa , Wahlin Anders , Höglund Martin , Juliusson Gunnar
Published: September 2014

Unsuccessful cytogenetics (UC) in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) treated on different SWOG trials was recently reported to be associated with increased age and dismal outcome. To ascertain whether this holds true also in unselected patients with AML, we retrieved all cytogenetic reports in cases from the population‐based Swedish AML Registry. Between 1997 and 2006, 1737 patients below 80 yr of age without myelosarcoma or acute promyelocytic leukaemia received intensive treatment. The frequencies of UC and unperformed cytogenetics (UPC) were 2.1% and 20%, respectively. The early death rates differed between the cytogenetic subgroups (P = 0.006) with the highest rates in patients with UC (14%) and UPC (12%) followed by high‐risk (HR) AML, intermediate risk (IR) and standard risk (SR) cases successfully karyotyped (8.6%, 5.9%, and 5.8%, respectively). The complete remission rate was lower in UC and UPC and HR compared with the other risk groups (P < 0.001). The overall five‐year survival rates were 25% for UC and 22% for UPC, whereas the corresponding frequencies for SR, IR and HR AML patients without UC and UPC were 64%, 31% and 15%, respectively. In conclusion, lack of cytogenetic data translates into a poor prognosis.
Mineralisation or Ossification of the Interosseous Ligament of the Centrodistal Joint of the Horse: Is There an Association with Osteoarthritis?
Authors: Skelly E. , Dyson S.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

There have been no detailed descriptions of the radiological appearance of the centrodistal joint interosseous ligament in horses with and without distal hock joint pain.

Objectives

1) To describe the normal radiological appearance of the region of the centrodistal joint interosseous ligament; 2) to determine the frequency of occurrence of mineralisation or ossification of the interosseous ligament and to describe radiological abnormalities surrounding the interosseous space; 3) to describe concurrent radiological abnormalities in the tarsus. It was hypothesised that ossification of the interosseous ligament will be associated with radiological evidence of osteoarthritis of the centrodistal joint.

Study design

Systematic radiological analysis using a predefined grading system, after a repeatability study, and descriptive statistics.

Methods

Case records and radiographs of all horses which underwent radiographic examination of one or both tarsi over 7 years were reviewed.

Results

There were 700 horses, including 470 examined bilaterally. The normal interosseous space was an oval‐shaped radiolucent area surrounded by subchondral bone of uniform opacity and thickness. Changes in the region of the interosseous ligament of the centrodistal joint were evident in 190/1170 (16.2%) tarsi, including 50 horses examined bilaterally. In 33/190 (17.4%) tarsi there was complete loss of the oval‐shaped radiolucent area, together with increased thickness of the adjacent subchondral bone, endosteal irregularity and increased opacity of the adjacent trabecular bone. In addition 157/190 tarsi had patchy increased opacity within the interosseous space and alterations of the adjacent subchondral and trabecular bone. There was radiological evidence of osteoarthritis of the centrodistal joint in 27/33 (81.8%) of tarsi with complete ossification of the centrodistal interosseous ligament, 17 of which (51.5%) had distal tarsal pain, and in 29/157 (18.5%) tarsi with other abnormalities of the centrodistal interosseous ligament.

Conclusions

When evaluating the tarsus radiologically the region of the centrodistal joint interosseous ligament should be assessed.

Ethical animal research: The study was approved by the Ethical Review Committee of the Animal Health Trust and there was informed owner consent. Sources of funding: None. Competing interests: None.
Concurrent Proximal Suspensory Desmopathy And Injury of the Proximal Aspect of the Accessory Ligament of the Deep Digital Flexor Tendon in Forelimbs and Hindlimbs
Authors: Plowright E. , Dyson S.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

There are no reports of proximal suspensory desmopathy (PSD) and concurrent injuries of the proximal aspect of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon (ALDDFT).

Objectives

To describe clinical features, response to local analgesia and ultrasonographic features.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Review of case records, January 2009–2014.

Results

There were 8 horses with forelimb lameness, 4 unilateral and 4 bilateral (2 with bilateral injuries of the suspensory ligament [SL] and ALDDFT and 2 with PSD and injury of the ALDDFT in one limb and injury of the ALDDFT alone in the other). One horse had pain on palpation of the proximal aspect of the ALDDFT. Lameness was abolished by palmar metacarpal (subcarpal) nerve blocks in 10/12 limbs; in 2 limbs an ulnar nerve block was required to abolish lameness. There were 5 horses with bilateral hindlimb lameness; concurrent desmopathy of the ALDDFT and PSD was identified in one horse. In the other 4 horses there was a history of bilateral PSD which had undergone treatment. Recurrent lameness was associated with unilateral (n = 3) or bilateral (n = 1) PSD and desmopathy of the ALDDFT. In 2 horses there was soft tissue swelling in the proximomedial aspect of the metatarsus in the region of the ALDDFT. Lameness was abolished by local infiltration of mepivacaine in the proximoplantar aspect of the metatarsus in 3 limbs; in one limb a tibial nerve block was required to eliminate lameness. In all horses lesions were characterised ultrasonographically by enlargement of both the ALDDFT and the proximal aspect of the SL and a diffuse decrease in echogenicity. There was echogenic material between the SL and ALDDFT in 5 limbs.

Conclusions

All soft tissue structures in the proximal aspect of the metacarpus/metatarsus should be evaluated ultrasonographically if pain is localised to this area.

Ethical animal research: The study was approved by the Ethical Review Committee of the Animal Health Trust and there was informed owner consent. Sources of funding: None. Competing interests: None.
Sport Horses with Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD) with Predominantly Eosinophils or Mast Cells Are More Predisposed to Poor Performance, Exercise Induced Pulmonary Haemorrhage (EIPH) and Have Shorter Careers When Compared to Horses with Neutrophilic IAD
Authors: Boshuizen B. , de Bruijn C.M. , Dewulf J. , Delesalle C.J.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Clinical differences and variable response to therapy had been suspected between sport horses with predominantly eosinophils and/or mast cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and horses with predominantly neutrophilia in the BALF.

Objectives

To examine possible differences in performance, response to treatment and prognosis between both groups.

Study design

Retrospective clinical study.

Methods

A total of 174 client‐owned sport horses that were presented to the Wolvega Equine Clinic for respiratory problems between 2008 and 2013 were included. A questionnaire was used for follow‐up at least 3 months after diagnosis. Cytological BALF counts were considered increased when: neutrophils >5%; eosinophils >1% and mast cells >2%. Data were analysed using SPSS software and Chi square tests.

Results

Cough and highest mucus scores were significantly more associated with neutrophilic IAD (P = 0.009 and P = 0.007). The neutrophilia group was also significantly more responsive to therapy, often including corticosteroid inhalation, and management optimisation (P = 0.001) and had better long‐term prognosis when compared to horses from the eosinophilic or mast cell groups (P<0.001). Lowest tracheal mucus scores were reported for the eosinophilic group, followed by the mast cell group. Haemosiderophage scores were significantly higher in the eosinophilic and mast cell groups (P<0.001). Poor performance was reported significantly more frequently in horses with eosinophils and mast cells as the main inflammatory cell population in their BALF (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Inflammatory airway disease with predominantly mast cells or eosinophils is associated with low endoscopic tracheal mucus scores. These horses are more predisposed to EIPH, poor performance and responded unfavourably to therapy when compared to horses with neutrophilic IAD.

Ethical animal research: Ethical committee oversight not currently required by this congress: retrospective study of clinical records. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Sources of funding: Not stated. Competing interests: None.
Soaked‐Hay: It's Not All Sweetness – Mass Matters!
Authors: McG. Argo C. , Dugdale A.H.A. , McGowan C.M.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Soaked grass hays are recommended for the nutritional‐management of equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). Forage provision is commonly restricted to promote weight‐loss and insulin‐sensitivity. When EMS animals were fed hay at ∼1.25% body mass (BM) as daily dry matter (DM) (presoaking) animals lost weight at 1.1% of outset BM weekly. This doubled weight‐losses recorded when horses were fed fresh/‘un‐soaked’ hay to the same level [1].

Objectives

To compare the composition and digestibility of fresh/soaked grass‐hays to improve nutritional‐guidance for the management of EMS.

Study design

Following 6 weeks of dietary restriction to 1.25%BM as hay‐DM, 6/12 horses which had participated in an earlier study [2], were used to determine the digestibility of the soaked (n = 3) and fresh (n = 3) hays.

Methods

Samples of fresh grass‐hay (n = 6) and hay from the same batch which had been water‐soaked overnight (16 h, n = 6) or by day (7 h, n = 6) were dried for the measurement of DM content, pooled and ground. Nutrient and gross energy (GE) compositions were determined by proximate analyses. Animals were fed hay as 2 daily meals. Soaked‐hay was equal‐parts long/short‐soaked. Apparent digestibilities were determined after total faecal collection for 72 h.

Results

Soaking hay; did not alter GE (17.6 MJ/kg DM), increased acid detergent fibre (ADF) (30–35%), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) (68–74%) and crude protein (CP, 8.4–10.6%), decreased water soluble carbohydrate (WSC, 18.2–12.2%), and mineral contents (5.7–4.2%). Digestibilities of GE, DM, ash, NDF and WSC were unaltered by soaking. Conversely, soaking increased CP (55.6–66.8%) and ADF (37.5–50%) digestibility. However, hay‐soaking elicits un‐quantified losses of DM. Previous studies report hay ADF and CP as ‘water‐insoluble’. When DM losses were retrospectively calculated from the ADF and CP content of fresh and soaked‐hays, daily DM provision decreased from 1.25 to 1.14%. Consequently DE decreased by 25% (119.5–89.7 kj/kg BM/day).

Conclusions

Dry matter losses from hay‐soaking have marked impacts on energy/nutrient provision and increase the severity of dietary restriction.

Ethical animal research: The study was approved by the University of Liverpool, Veterinary Research Ethics Committee. Owners gave informed consent for their horses’ inclusion in the study. Sources of funding: Personal research account. Competing interests: None.
Prevalence of Osseous Pathology in the Articular Process Articulations in the Equine Cervical and Cranial Thoracic Vertebrae
Authors: Rombach N. , Stubbs N.C. , Clayton H.M.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the articular processes (APs) is recognised as a clinical condition in the equine cervical spine, but there is little information on the prevalence and distribution of OA in the APs of the cervical and cranial thoracic vertebrae.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and distribution of OA in the APs of the equine cervical and cranial thoracic vertebrae in relation to vertebral level, age and size of the horse and side of the neck.

Study design

A post mortem longitudinal randomised study of 53 horses.

Hypotheses

OA is more prevalent and more severe in the APs of the cervicothoracic junction, the prevalence and severity of OA increases with horse age and size, and OA is equally distributed on left and right sides.

Methods

The cervical (C1–C7) and cranial thoracic (T1–T7) vertebrae of 53 horses were removed at necropsy and boiled out. Based on the size (percentage) of the joint margin that was affected, OA of the 4 APs of each vertebra was graded on a scale of 0 (no osseous lesions) to 3 (severe osseous lesions). Based on these grades, a 3‐factor ANOVA was used to test the random effects of horse, age (young, old) and size (small, large), and the fixed factors of side (left, right) and vertebral level (C1 to T7).

Results

OA lesions were most severe in the mid‐cervical vertebrae (C3–C4) followed by the cervicothoracic curvature (C5–T1). Severity of OA increased with age and size of the horse but there was no difference between left and right sides.

Conclusions

OA is symmetrically present with higher severity in the mid‐cervical and cervicothoracic regions and with higher prevalence in older and larger horses. These factors support bilateral injections in specific APs for clinical treatment of OA in the equine cervical spine.

Ethical animal research: Approval for this study was obtained under Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee number 02‐11/020‐00. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated but general permission for post mortem examination was given. Sources of funding: Supported by the CVM Endowed Research Funds and the McPhail Endowment at Michigan State University. Competing interests: None.
Latero‐Oblique Radiography as a Diagnostic Tool for Equine Cervical Osteoarthritis
Authors: Tambaschi M. , Dunkel B. , Mullard J. , Wood R. , Piercy R.J. , Weller R.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Equine cervical osteoarthritis is a common disease known to contribute to both neck pain and cervical vertebral compressive myelopathy. There are no published studies demonstrating the usefulness of latero‐oblique radiography as a diagnostic tool for cervical osteoarthritis.

Objectives

To determine the sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values of latero‐oblique radiography as a diagnostic tool for cervical articular process joint osteoarthritis.

Study design

Prospective cadaver study.

Methods

Latero‐oblique radiographs and CT images were collected, and post mortem examinations performed, on 27 cadaver necks from Thoroughbred‐type horses of various ages and sexes. Two equine clinicians independently reviewed each set of images for the presence of osteoarthritis. The authors, under the guidance of a veterinary pathologist, reviewed all articular process joints for bony changes indicative of osteoarthritis.

Results

The prevalence of osteoarthritis identified on CT images was 57.9% (Assessor A) and 23% (Assessor B). The prevalence of lesions identified on post mortem examination was 25.6%. Latero‐oblique radiography showed a low sensitivity for identifying osteoarthritis when compared to both CT imaging (6.3–16.1%) and post mortem examination (2.2–4.4%). However, it showed a high specificity when compared to both CT imaging (92.1–97.8%) and post mortem examination (87.2–95.0%). The positive predictive value for identifying osteoarthritis was moderate (40.9–80.0%) when compared to CT imaging and poor (4.2–18.2%) when compared to post mortem examination. The negative predictive value was moderate when compared to both CT imaging (42.9–76.3%) and post mortem examination (78.0–79.8%).

Conclusions

Latero‐oblique radiography has low sensitivity, but high specificity for the detection of cervical osteoarthritis when compared to both CT imaging and post mortem examination. Further investigation comparing the sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values of latero‐oblique radiography vs. laterolateral radiography would determine whether taking latero‐oblique radiographs, which can be more difficult to obtain and interpret, is necessary for the diagnosis of cervical osteoarthritis in practice.

Ethical animal research: Ethical committee oversight not currently required by this congress: The study was performed on material obtained from an abattoir. Sources of funding: None. Competing interests: None.
A Retrospective Study on Equine Herpesvirus‐1 Associated Myeloencephalopathy in France (2008–2011)
Authors: van Galen G. , Leblond A. , Tritz P. , Martinelle L. , Pronost S. , Saegerman C.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Diagnosis of equine herpesvirus‐1 associated myeloencephalopathy (EHM) can be troublesome, but early recognition and knowledge of risk factors are primordial for prevention and control.

Objectives

1) Improvement of early clinical recognition, and 2) identification of factors potentially of importance for spread.

Study design

Retrospective descriptive study of EHM cases and statistical comparison to acutely neurologically affected horses negative for EHM.

Methods

Files from a French epidemiosurveillance programme for equine infectious neurological diseases (2008–2011) were reviewed. Cases were considered EHM (n = 26) based on presence of acute neurological signs and laboratory confirmation. Cases were considered control cases (n = 29) when reported to be suffering from acute neurological diseases, but negative for EHM. A subgroup of controls was created that excluded cases with peripheral neuromuscular diseases (n = 21). Univariate and multivariate analysis and classification and regression tree analysis between groups were performed to identify diagnostic markers and risk factors.

Results

EHM had a fatality rate of 46% and occurred often in isolated cases. They frequently showed ataxia, paresis and cauda equina affection, but the clinical picture was variable. Univariate analysis identified the following variables as more associated to EHM than to control groups: new horse introduced in herd, vaccination, cauda equina affection, larger herd size, and saddle horses. In the multivariate analysis, new horse introduced in herd and cauda equina affection could be retained. CART analyses identified herd size, month of occurrence, new horse introduced in herd and cauda equina affection as main predictors for EHM.

Conclusions

Isolated EHM cases occur frequently, accentuating the diagnostic difficulty. History and clinical examination of acutely neurologically affected horses can potentially improve early recognition of EHM. Risk factors were in accordance with other studies, although in a different geographic location and study setup, and therefore strengthen their importance for spread of EHM.

Acknowledgements: Christel Marcillaud‐Pitel and Charlène Daix are gratefully acknowledged for their help with data collection.

Ethical animal research: Ethical committee oversight not currently required by this congress: retrospective study of clinical records. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Sources of funding: RESPE. Competing interests: None.
The Effect of Dobutamine and Bolus Crystalloid Fluids on the Cardiovascular Function of Isoflurane Anaesthetised Horses
Authors: Loughran C.M. , Raisis A.L. , Secombe C.J. , Lester G.D.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Hypotension is the most common cardiovascular complication encountered during equine inhalational anaesthesia, for which a dobutamine intravenous constant rate infusion (DCRI) is often the sole treatment. There is limited literature available on the combined use of crystalloid boluses and inotropic agents during equine hypotensive episodes.

Objectives

To determine the cardiovascular effects of DCRI, alone and in combination with a crystalloid bolus (CB) during controlled ventilation in hypotensive, isoflurane anaesthetised horses.

Study design

Prospective, randomised, cross‐over experimental design of 6 healthy Standardbred horses aged 5–13 years weighing 464–578 kg.

Methods

Horses were premedicated with intravenous acepromazine and xylazine. Anaesthesia was induced with intravenous ketamine and diazepam. Isofluorane was used to maintain anaesthesia and achieve a target mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 60 mmHg ± 5%. Sixty minutes post induction (T0) when a stable end tidal isoflurane percentage and target MAP had been achieved for ≥15 min one of 2 treatments was given. Treatment A (TA) was a DCRI, commencing at 0.5 μg/kg bwt/min and increasing in increments of 0.5 ug/kg bwt every 10 min as required to achieve a MAP of 80 mmHg ± 5% by 30 min following initiation of the DCRI. Treatment B (TB) was as for TA plus a 20 ml/kg bwt CB. Cardiac output, haemoglobin concentration, PaO2 and SaO2 were obtained at baseline (T0) and 30 min following initiation of the DCRI (T1). Data were analysed with a Wilcoxon matched‐pairs signed rank test (P<0.05 considered significant), with data presented as median ± interquartile ranges.

Results

Treatment A was associated with a significant (P = 0.03) increase in oxygen delivery index (DO2I) from baseline (T0 707.78 ± 159.73 ml/ min/m2; T1 1260.26 ± 184.56 ml/min/m2), while TB was not (P = 0.09).

Conclusions

In an experimental model of isoflurane induced hypotension, DCRI results in increased DO2I, while the use of DCRI in combination with CB does not.

Ethical animal research: The use of animals in this study was approved by Murdoch University Ethics Committee (AEC Permit No: 2526/12). Sources of funding: Murdoch University Masters Research Fund. Competing interests: None.
Incidence and Risk Factors Associated with Early Pregnancy Loss in Thoroughbreds
Authors: Rose B. , Firth M. , Morris B. , Nicholson C. , Verheyen K. , Wathes D.C. , de Mestre A.M.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Early pregnancy loss (EPL) between Days 15 and 65 of pregnancy occurs in 7–10% of Thoroughbred pregnancies causing substantial financial losses. Despite this, very little is known about risk factors associated with the condition.

Objectives

To determine the current incidence of EPL in Thoroughbred mares and to investigate risk factors associated with the condition.

Study design

A prospective cohort study was carried out on a population of 927 Thoroughbred mares in the Newmarket area during the 2013 breeding season.

Methods

Questionnaires were completed by clinicians from 2 veterinary hospitals and stud secretaries from 23 stud farms. Univariable risk factor analyses were conducted using Chi‐squared and t tests.

Results

The incidence of pregnancy loss was 6.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.3–8.6%) between Days 15–42 and 2% (95% CI 1.2–3.0%) between Days 43–65. Mares aged 11 years or over were 2.4 times more likely to suffer EPL than younger mares (95% CI 1.5–3.9): the risk of loss increased as mare age increased. Foaling, rested or barren mares had a 4.3 times increased risk of loss compared to maiden mares (95% CI 1.5–12.0). Mares receiving the preovulatory hormones deslorelin or hCG were shown to have a significantly reduced risk of EPL (P = 0.03) compared with mares who had not received any preovulatory treatments. Pregnancies undergoing loss had a significantly smaller vesicle size (mean 1.7 cm, s.d. 0.51) at the initial (Day 14–17) pregnancy scan compared to pregnancies which were maintained throughout the study period (mean 2.0 cm, s.d. 0.49, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

The incidence of EPL in 2013 was similar to that previously reported in the Newmarket area. Further multivariable risk factor analyses and investigations to discover novel causes of EPL are required to reduce the incidence of this condition.

Acknowledgements: Newmarket Equine Hospital, Rossdales Equine Practice.

Ethical animal research: This study was approved by the Royal Veterinary College's Ethics and Welfare Committee. Sources of funding: Thoroughbred Breeders Association. Competing interests: None.