bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclosporine for Severe Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Pham Co QD , Efros Carly B , Berardi Rosemary R
Published: December 2005

Objective:

To evaluate evidence for the use of cyclosporine in treating patients with severe ulcerative colitis.

Data Sources:

A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database, and ISI Web of Knowledge (1966–November 2005) with the search terms cyclosporine, cyclosporin A, CsA, ulcerative colitis, UC, inflammatory bowel disease, IBD, steroid-refractory, and immunosuppression. Additional papers were located by hand-searching relevant references. Only human studies in adults and literature published in English were included.

Data Synthesis:

Intravenous cyclosporine has been evaluated for the treatment of severe ulcerative colitis in 4 randomized, controlled trials, as well as in many open-label and retrospective studies. Studies that evaluated cyclosporine for severe ulcerative colitis were reviewed. All 4 controlled trials showed an initial positive clinical response as defined by the Crohn's Activity Index when intravenous cyclosporine 4 mg/kg/day was administered as monotherapy or combined with intravenous corticosteroids. One of the 4 trials indicated that high-dose cyclosporine (4 mg/kg/day) has no additional clinical benefit over the low-dose (2 mg/kg/day) and that the lower dose may improve safety related to dose-dependent adverse effects.

Conclusions:

There is evidence to support the use of intravenous cyclosporine for patients with severe ulcerative colitis who are refractory to corticosteroid therapy. Because most of the adverse effects associated with cyclosporine are dose dependent, therapy should be initiated with the lower 2 mg/kg/day dose. Subsequent doses should be adjusted based on cyclosporine blood concentrations of 150–250 ng/mL. Cyclosporine should be used only to induce remission and serve as a “bridge” to azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine maintenance therapy. At this time, there are insufficient data to support the long-term use of cyclosporine monotherapy for avoidance of surgery or maintenance of remission.
Effects of Concentrated Ambient Particles on Heart Rate Variability in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Chang Chuen‐Chau , Hwang Jing‐Shiang , Chan Chang‐Chuan , Wang Peng‐Yau , Hu Tsuey‐Hwa , Cheng Tsun‐Jen
Published: December 2005

Effects of Concentrated Ambient Particles on Heart Rate Variability in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats: Chuen‐Chau Chang, et al. Institute of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene, National Taiwan University, Taiwan—In the present study, the cardiovascular toxicity of PM2.5 was determined in spontaneously hypertensive (SH) rats using the standard deviation of normal‐to‐normal intervals (SDNN) and root mean square of successive differences of adjacent normal‐to‐normal intervals (RMSSD) as outcome measurements. Four SH rats implanted with radiotelemetry transmitters were repeatedly exposed to concentrated PM2.5 in nose‐only exposure chambers. Gravimetric analysis revealed the mean post‐concentrating mass concentration of particles during the 5 h of exposure was 202 µg/m3. Using each animal as its own control and linear mixed‐effects model, to adjust for circadian nature and individual differences, we found that SDNN decreased by 15% initially then gradually decreased to 60% of the initial value at the end of exposure. Our results indicate that concentrated PM2.5 may decrease SDNN on SH rats during PM exposure. The study also showed that SDNN is more sensitive to PM induced effects than RMSSD.
Relationships between Work‐related Factors and Disorders in the Neck‐shoulder and Low‐back Region among Female and Male Ambulance Personnel
Authors: Aasa Ulrika , Barnekow‐Bergkvist Margareta , Ängquist Karl‐Axel , Brulin Christine
Published: December 2005

Relationships between work‐related factors and disorders in the neck‐shoulder and low‐back region among female and male ambulance personnel: Ulrika Aasa, et al. Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Gävle, Sweden—This cross‐sectional study on a random sample of 1,500 ambulance personnel investigated the relationships between self‐reported work‐related physical and psychosocial factors, worry about work conditions, and musculoskeletal disorders among female and male ambulance personnel. Three different outcomes, complaints, activity limitation, and sick leave, for the neck‐shoulder and low‐back region, respectively, were chosen. Among the female personnel, physical demands was significantly associated with activity limitation in the neck‐shoulder (OR 4.13) and low‐back region (OR 2.17), and psychological demands with neck‐shoulder (OR 2.37) and low‐back (OR 2.28) complaints. Among the male personnel, physical demands was significantly associated with low‐back complaints (OR 1.41) and activity limitation (OR 1.62). Psychological demands and lack of social support were significantly associated with neck‐shoulder complaints (OR 1.86 and OR 1.58, respectively) and activity limitation (OR 3.46 and OR 1.71) as well as activity limitation due to low‐back complaints (OR 2.22 and OR 1.63). Worry about work conditions was independently associated with activity limitation due to low‐back complaints among the female (OR 5.28), and to both neck‐shoulder and low‐back complaints (OR 1.79 and OR 2.04, respectively) and activity limitation (OR 2.32 and OR 1.95) among the male personnel. In conclusion, the association patterns between physical and psychological demands and MSDs suggest opportunities for intervention.
A Cross‐sectional Study of Alcohol Drinking and Health‐related Quality of Life among Male Workers in Japan
Authors: Saito Isao , Okamura Tomonori , Fukuhara Shunichi , Tanaka Taichiro , Suzukamo Yoshimi , Okayama Akira , Ueshima Hirotsugu ,   the Hipop‐OHP Research Group
Published: December 2005

A Cross‐sectional Study of Alcohol Drinking and Health‐related Quality of Life among Male Workers in Japan: Isao Saito, et al. Department of Public Health, Nara Medical University

Background

Although light and moderate alcohol drinkers are likely to have better subjective health, the sub‐scales for subjective health have not been well documented.

Methods

We studied 4,521 male workers aged 25 yr and older with no history of cancer or cardiovascular disease, in 12 occupational groups in Japan. Data were from the High‐risk and Population Strategy for Occupational Health Promotion Study (HIPOP‐OHP). Drinking status was classified according to daily alcohol intake or frequency of drinking. We assessed the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) based on scores for five scales of the SF‐36.

Results

Decreased odds ratios of sub‐optimal HRQOL conditions, defined as less than the median SF‐36 scores, for Role‐Physical and General Health were found among persons who consumed 1.0 to 22.9 g/d of alcohol. Odds ratios for sub‐optimal Vitality conditions were lowered according to increased levels of alcohol intake. Role‐Emotional scores were not associated with alcohol drinking. People who drank 5 to 6 d/wk had higher levels of Role‐Physical and Vitality, and those who drank 1 to 2 d/wk had better Vitality and Mental Health scores than non‐drinkers. When adjusted for age, marital status, working hours, physical activity at work, self‐reported job stress, smoking, regular exercise, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes, the associations were almost unchanged except for General Health.

Conclusions

Associations of drinking patterns with subjective health varied in five sub‐scales of the SF‐36. Overall, alcohol drinkers rated their health as good in comparison with non‐drinkers.
Exposure to Lead, Cadmium and Chromium among Spray Painters in Automobile Body Repair Shops
Authors: Vitayavirasuk Banjong , Junhom Supaporn , Tantisaeranee Pitchaya
Published: December 2005

Exposure to Lead, Cadmium and Chromium among Spray Painters in Automobile Body Repair Shops: B. Vitayavirasuk, et al. Faculty of Environmental Management, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand—Environmental and biological monitoring of lead, cadmium and chromium levels in spray painters is reported. All of the study subjects worked in automobile body repair shops that had no standard spraying room. They were divided into 2 groups, those who wore an aerosol‐removing respirator while spraying (n=20) and those who did not wear the respirator (n=50). Air in the breathing zone of each subject was sampled and analyzed for lead, cadmium and chromium levels. The subjects’ blood lead levels and urinary cadmium and chromium levels were also measured along with those of a control group. The mean environmental and biological levels of these metals between the two groups of the painters were not significantly different (p>0.05). However, the biological levels of the metals were significantly higher in the study groups than in the control group (p<0.01). On‐site observations revealed that improper use of an aerosol‐removing respirator, lack of an isolated spraying room and poor personal hygiene habits caused the failure to prevent heavy metal exposure among the automobile spray painters.
The Health of Volunteer Firefighters Three Years after a Technological Disaster
Authors: Morren Mattijn , Yzermans C. Joris , van Nispen Ruth M.A. , Wevers Stephan J.M.
Published: December 2005

The Health of Volunteer Firefighters Three Years after a Technological Disaster: Mattijn Morren, et al. NIVEL, Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, the Netherlands—On May 13, 2000, a firework depot exploded in a residential area of the city of Enschede, The Netherlands. Many disaster workers responded, including volunteer firefighters, a group that has received little attention in disaster research. This study examined the presence of health problems in volunteer firefighters who were involved in disaster work, three years after the disaster. Furthermore, it was investigated whether demographic characteristics and disaster exposure predicted health problems. The study population consisted of 246 volunteer firefighters who were deployed in disaster work and 71 non‐deployed controls. These firefighters completed a questionnaire which inquired about their perceived health and health change, physical symptoms, post‐traumatic stress, mental health problems, and health care utilization. Three years after the disaster, no health differences emerged between deployed and non‐deployed firefighters. Good health and health improvement over the previous year were reported. Respondents who encountered more distressing experiences during disaster work or carried out more direct disaster‐related recovery tasks reported more mental health problems and health care utilization. However, the most reliable predictors of health problems were distressing experiences unrelated to the disaster in personal life or during work. Three years after the disaster, the health of volunteer firefighters involved in the disaster work was not much impaired, possibly because aftercare was available and utilized. Nevertheless, disaster exposure was associated with elevated post‐traumatic stress symptoms and mental health care utilization. Health care workers should direct specific attention to the treatment and prevention of post‐traumatic stress symptoms in cases of major accidents or disasters.
Occupational Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds and Mitigation by Push‐Pull Local Exhaust Ventilation in Printing Plants
Authors: Leung Michael K.H. , Liu Chun‐Ho , Chan Alan H.S.
Published: December 2005

Occupational Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds and Mitigation by Local Exhaust Ventilation in Printing Plants: Michael K.H. Leung et al. The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong—The extensive use of multiple organic solvents in offset lithographic printing causing high emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) indeed poses a serious risk to printing workers’ health. In this study, indoor air quality (IAQ) assessments were carried out in seven printing plants and the main objectives were to understand the effect of VOC emissions on IAQ and develop effective mitigation measures to protect workers. The thorough gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) measurements showed that although a variety of VOCs were presented in the indoor air, none of them was found close to individual 8‐h time‐weighted average (TWA) of the occupational exposure limit (OEL). The additive effect was also found below the critical value of unity. However, short‐term personal exposure to total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) was exceedingly high when a print worker carried out blanket and ink roller cleaning procedures. Therefore, the occupational health risk was mainly due to repeated short‐term exposures during intermittent VOC‐emitting procedures rather than long‐term exposure to background VOCs. Push‐pull local exhaust ventilation (LEV) was identified as an effective mitigation measure. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis was conducted to study the push‐pull LEV operation. It was found that there existed a threshold LEV air flow rate for an abrupt reduction in the worker's exposure to VOCs. The reduction was less sensitive when the LEV airflow was further increased beyond the threshold. These phenomena, consistent with experimental results reported by other investigators, were explained by detailed CFD analysis showing the competition between the general ventilation and the push‐pull LEV to become the dominating driving force for the resultant local flow pattern.
lnterspecific Variation in UV Defense Mechanisms Among Temperate Freshwater Fishes
Authors: Olson Mark H. , Mitchell David L.
Published: December 2005

An important step in predicting the effects of future increases in UV radiation (UVR) is to evaluate the mechanisms that organisms use to prevent and repair DNA damage and determine how those mechanisms influence UVR sensitivity. Damage is prevented to varying degrees through photo‐protection and repaired via two main pathways: nucleotide excision repair and photoenzymatic repair. At present, little is known about the generality or similarity of these defenses among temperate freshwater fishes. We used laboratory experiments to compare UVR defense mechanisms among five freshwater fish species representing four families and three orders. Purified DNA, freeze‐killed larvae and live larvae were exposed to UVB radiation for 12 h in the presence or absence of photorepair radiation. After exposure, we quantified frequencies of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers in each exposure treatment. All five species used photoprotection and proportional decreases in dimer frequency were similar for all species. Evidence of excision repair was also found for all species but proportional decreases in photoproduct frequencies varied among species. Finally, evidence of photoenzymatic repair was found for only two of the five species.
Antioxidant Properties of Melanin in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Wang Z. , Dillon J. , Gaillard E. R.
Published: December 2005

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a monolayer of highly pigmented cells lining the inner aspect of Bruch's membrane. This pigmentation is due to eumelanin and a possible antioxidant role of melanin is reported here. The photo‐oxidation of A2E, a constituent of RPE lipofnscin, leads to the sequential addition of up to nine oxygen atoms and/or the addition or loss of two hydrogen atoms. These photo‐oxidations were investigated in the presence and absence of either calf or human RPE melanin in AZE‐laden RPE cells. It was found that calf melanin was protective against the photo‐oxidation of A2E, with an inhibition of oxidation of up to 50% in the case of the addition of two oxygen atoms. Calf melanin was also protective against blue light‐induced damage to RPE cells. In addition this ability appears to decrease in humans as they grow older. With aging, a melanin‐lipofuscin complex called melanolipofuscin forms. It is suggested that the oxidation or photo‐oxidation of A2E in vivo may contribute to the age‐related deterioration of the anti‐oxidant role of RPE melanin and lead to various retinal disorders, such as age‐related macular degeneration.
Gear Bias in Fyke Netting: Evaluating Soak Time, Fish Density, and Predators
Authors: Breen Matthew J. , Ruetz Carl R.
Published: December 2005

Knowledge of gear bias is critical for conducting valid population and community assessments. We studied the biases in fyke netting by investigating the individual effects of soak time (fyke nets were fished for 6, 24, or 48 h), fish density (fyke nets were stocked with 0, 30, or 60 fish/net), and predators (fyke nets were stocked with one or zero bowfin Amia calva) on the escape probability and number of individuals captured (i.e., catch) for three fish species. Overall, escape probabilities were consistently lower for round gobies Neogobius melanostomus than for bluntnose minnows Pimephales notatus and banded killifish Fundulus diaphanus. Both escape probability and catch increased with soak time. Escape probabilities were lower at high fish densities and in the presence of a predator, whereas catch appeared to be unaffected by both factors. We documented predation on fish stocked in fyke nets by free-ranging bowfins and yellow bullheads Ameiurus natalis, which is a potential source of bias that will probably vary among systems. Of the factors we investigated, variation in soak time had the strongest effect on catch. Our results were consistent with catch being proportional to soak times of at least 24 to 48 h, although this relationship was highly variable. Thus, standardizing catch by soak time (e.g., net nights) can be appropriate when confronted with low variation in soak time (e.g., 1 d). Finally, our study highlights potential differences in escape probabilities among fish species, a factor that is probably important in determining which species are overrepresented and which are underrepresented in entrapment gear.
In vitro pharmacologic effect of two endothelin-1 antagonists on equine colonic arteries and veins
Authors: Venugopal Changaram S. , Holmes Earnestine P. , Koch Catherine E. , Curtis Lee Ann , Holm Ashley S. , Moore Rustin M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the effectiveness of 2 potential endothelin (ET)-1 antagonists in blocking the contractile responses of equine colonic vessels to increasing concentrations of ET-1.

Sample Population—Mesenteric vessels from 6 clinically healthy horses.

Procedure—Colonic vessels (arterial and venous rings) were placed in organ baths with oxygenated Tyrode solution at 37 C. Each was attached to a force transducer interfaced with a polygraph, and 2 g of tension was applied and equilibrated for 45 minutes. Then, B-1 (PD 142893) and B-2 (PD 145065) ET-1 antagonists were tested. One ring from each vessel type was used as a control for determining concentration- response relationships of ET-1 (10–10to 10–6M). Three rings of each vessel type were incubated with 3 concentrations of each antagonist (10–7, 10–6, and 10–5M) for 30 minutes before ET induced contractions were determined. The maximum contractile response and pA2values were determined.

Results—Vessels contracted in a concentrationdependent manner to ET-1. Arteries responded slowly but reached greater contractions. Veins responded immediately with sustained contractions. Both antagonists inhibited contractions in a concentrationdependent manner with significant differences at 10–6and 10–5Mfor arteries and 10–5Mfor veins. Complete blockade of contractions was observed with B-2 (10–5M). The pA2values for B-1 were 8.26 and 6.82 for arteries and veins, respectively, whereas they were 8.25 and 7.21 for B-2.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Both antagonists effectively blocked ET-1-induced contractions of equine colonic vessels. Because B-2 is water soluble and caused complete blockade at 10–5M, it appears to be the preferred antagonist. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:154–159)
Effects of enrofloxacin and magnesium deficiency on matrix metabolism in equine articular cartilage
Authors: Davenport Celia L. M. , Boston Raymond C. , Richardson Dean W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To investigate the effects of enrofloxacin and magnesium deficiency on explants of equine articular cartilage.

Sample Population—Articular cartilage explants and cultured chondrocytes obtained from adult and neonatal horses.

Procedure—Full-thickness explants and cultured chondrocytes were incubated in complete or magnesium- deficient media containing enrofloxacin at concentrations of 0, 1, 5, 25, 100, and 500 µg/ml. Incorporation and release of sulfate35S over 24 hours were used to assess glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis and degradation. An assay that measured binding of dimethylmethylene blue dye was used to compare total GAG content between groups. Northern blots of RNA from cultured chondrocytes were probed with equine cDNA of aggrecan, type-II collagen, biglycan, decorin, link protein, matrix metalloproteinases 1, 3, and 13, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1.

Results—A dose-dependent suppression of35S incorporation was observed. In cartilage of neonates,35S incorporation was substantially decreased at enrofloxacin concentrations of 25 mg/ml. In cartilage of adult horses,35S incorporation was decreased only at enrofloxacin concentrations of ≥ 100 µg/ml. Magnesium deficiency caused suppression of35S incorporation. Enrofloxacin or magnesium deficiency did not affect GAG degradation or endogenous GAG content. Specific effects of enrofloxacin on steadystate mRNA for the various genes were not observed.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Enrofloxacin may have a detrimental effect on cartilage metabolism in horses, especially in neonates. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:160–166)
Results of cystometry and urethral pressure profilometry in dogs sedated with medetomidine or xylazine
Authors: Rawlings Clarence A. , Barsanti Jeanne A. , Chernosky Adriene M. , Oliver John E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare effects of medetomidine and xylazine hydrochloride on results of cystometry and micturition reflexes in healthy dogs and results of urethral pressure profilometry (UPP) in sedated and conscious dogs.

Animals—20 dogs.

Procedures—Urodynamic testing was performed 6 times in each dog (3 times after administration of xylazine [1 mg/kg of body weight, IV] and 3 times after administration of medetomidine (30 µg/kg, IM). Before each episode of sedation, UPP was performed. Heart and respiratory rates and indirect blood pressures were recorded prior to and 5, 10, 20, and 30 minutes after injection of sedative. Cystometry measurements included threshold volume, threshold pressure, and tonus limb. The UPP measurements included maximal urethral closure pressure (MUCP), functional profile length, and, in male dogs, plateau pressure.

Results—Mean MUCP was decreased markedly in xylazine- and medetomidine-sedated dogs. Xylazine and medetomidine also decreased plateau pressure in male dogs. The MUCP measurements were consistent among days for conscious and xylazine-sedated dogs but were inconsistent for medetomidinesedated female dogs. The proportion of valid cystometry measurements was greater for xylazine (39 of 60) than for medetomidine (27 of 60). Cystometry was considered invalid when bladder pressure reached 30 cm H2O without initiation of a micturition reflex.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Medetomi dine and xylazine have similar effects on measurement of UPP and cystometry. Medetomidine was less consistent among days for UPP in female dogs and produced fewer valid cystometry tests, compared with xylazine. For urodynamic evaluations, medetomidine administered IM cannot be substituted for xylazine administered IV. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:167–170)
Comparison of number of Streptococcus uberis calculated on a volume or weight basis in sand and sawdust bedding
Authors: Gabler Matthew T. , Reneau Jeffrey K. , Farnsworth Ralph J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine a method for comparing
counts of Streptococcus uberis in sand and sawdust
and account for the influence of weight or volume of
the bedding material.

Sample Population—2 sources of kiln-dried sawdust
and 2 sources of washed sand.

Procedures—Sterilized bedding material (100 ml) was
weighed and uniformly distributed in an aluminum
pan. Each sterilized bedding material was inoculated
with a mean of 3.6 × 106 (experiment 1) or 2.4 × 107
(experiment 2) colony-forming units (CFU) of S
uberis/ml of bedding material. Without allowing time
for replication of S uberis, inoculated bedding materials
were washed with sterile saline (0.9% NaCl) solution.
A 200-ml aliquot of wash solution was serially
diluted up to 2,500 times with additional saline solution
and inoculated on plates containing tryptose agar
with 5% sheep blood. After incubation for 48 hours,
number of CFU of S uberis was counted. This procedure
was replicated 19 and 16 times for each bedding
material in experiments 1 and 2, respectively.

Results—Evaluation of Bonferroni 95% confidence
intervals revealed significant differences for counts of
S uberis calculated on a weight basis between sand
and sawdust.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Comparison
of counts of S uberis determined on a volume basis
for sand and sawdust accentuates to a lesser degree
the weight difference of the bedding materials and
ensures a more appropriate comparison of number of
S uberis. (Am J Vet Res 2001; 62:171–173)
Prevalence of Streptococcus iniae in tilapia, hybrid striped bass, and channel catfish on commercial fish farms in the United States
Authors: Shoemaker Craig A. , Klesius Phillip H. , Evans Joyce J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the prevalence of
Streptococcus iniae in tilapia (Oreochromis spp),
hybrid striped bass (Morone chrysops × M saxatilis),
and channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) on commercial
fish farms in the United States.

Animals—1,543 fish (970 tilapia, 415 hybrid striped
bass, and 158 channel catfish).

Procedures—The dry-swab technique was used for
collection of specimens for streptococcal isolation.
Specimens were shipped by overnight delivery and
processed by use of standard bacteriologic techniques.

Results—Streptococcus iniae was not isolated from
market-size channel catfish. Prevalence in tilapia and
hybrid striped bass was 37 of 970 (3.81%) and 30 of
415 (7.23%), respectively. Prevalence by farm ranged
from 0.0 to 27.4% for tilapia and 0.0 to 21.6% for
hybrid striped bass. In tilapia, prevalence was lowest
in market-size and nursery fish (4 of 239 [1.67%] and
3 of 339 [0.88%], respectively), with an increase in
prevalence for fish in the grow-out stage (30 of 337
[7.96%]). For hybrid striped bass, prevalence was
lowest in nursery and market-size fish (3 of 96
[3.12%] and 1 of 47 [2.12%], respectively) and highest
in fish in the grow-out stage (26 of 272 [9.56%]).
Prevalence in market-size tilapia and hybrid striped
bass was 5 of 286 (1.75%).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of
this study do not support the contention that S iniae
is a serious public health threat associated with commercially
raised fish; rather, it represents a limited risk
for older or immunocompromised people who incur
puncture wounds while handling and preparing fish.
(Am J Vet Res 2001;62:174–177)
Electroacupuncture-induced neural activation detected by use of manganese-enhanced functional magnetic resonance imaging in rabbits
Authors: Chiu Jen-Hwey , Cheng Hui-Cheng , Tai Chih-Ho , Hsieh Jen-Chuen , Yeh Tzu-Cheng , Cheng Henrich , Lin Jaung-Geng , Ho Low-Tone
Published: December 2005

Objective—To investigate the effects of acupuncture on neural activity detected by use of manganeseenhanced functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and elucidate the relationship between somatic acupoint stimulation and brain activation.

Animals—40 New Zealand White rabbits.

Procedure—Manganese-enhanced fMRI was performed in anesthetized rabbits manipulated with electroacupuncture (EA) on Zusanli (ST-36) and Yanglingquan (GB-34) acupoints. Image acquisition was performed on a 1.5T superconductive clinical scanner with a circular polarized extremity coil. T1- weighted images were acquired sequentially as follows: baseline, after mannitol injection, after manganese infusion, and 5 and 20 minutes after initiation of EA.

Results—Changes in focal neural activity were detected by use of manganese-enhanced fMRI. Stimulation on Zusanli (ST-36) for 5 minutes resulted in activation of the hippocampus, whereas stimulation on Yanglingquan (GB-34) resulted in activation of the hypothalamus, insula, and motor cortex. Activation became less specific after 20 minutes of EA. Furthermore, stimulation on ipsilateral acupoints led to bilateral brain activation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Each acupoint has a corresponding cerebral linkage, and stimulation on these points resulted in time-dependent neural activation. Understanding the linkage between peripheral acupoint stimulation and central neural pathways may provide a useful guide for clinical applications of acupuncture. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:178–182)
Epidemiologic features of Campylobacter jejuni isolated from poultry broiler houses and surrounding environments as determined by use of molecular strain typing
Authors: Nesbit Elizabeth G. , Gibbs Penelope , Dreesen David W. , Lee Margie D.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To genetically type Campylobacter jejuni
isolates from broiler houses or the external environment
to identify the source of Campylobacter organisms
in broiler chickens.

Sample Population—Environmental samples associated
with broiler chickens, in commercial grow-out
houses.

Procedure—Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was
used to amplify flaB, and the amplicon was digested
with Sau3A to create a restriction fragment length
polymorphism assay; PCR was also used to detect a
transcribed spacer region in the 23S rRNA gene.

Results—Isolates possessing a 23S spacer region
were more prevalent outside broiler houses than
inside. Houses that had previously contained chickens
or lacked biosecurity procedures were more likely
to contain isolates possessing the 23S spacer. One
house contained only isolates possessing the spacer,
whereas an adjacent house contained only isolates
lacking the spacer. The flaB type detected in broiler
houses was different from the type detected in the
environment; however, many isolates within the broiler
houses contained untypable flaB genotypes.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Most isolates
from within houses were genetically distinct from isolates
from outside houses that were examined by
bacteriologic culture, suggesting an undetected
source of C jejuni. Detection of isolates containing
the 23S spacer appeared to be an indicator of environmental
contamination of the houses. The observation
of completely different C jejuni genetic types
simultaneously within adjacent houses suggests that
some types do not compete successfully during the
grow-out period. In addition, the diversity of genotypes
identified within broiler houses indicates the
complexity of the ecologic features of C jejuni in the
chicken environment. (Am J Vet Res 2001;62:190–194)
Evaluation of glycoprotein Ib expression on feline platelets
Authors: Tablin Fern , Johnsrude Jocelyn D. , Walker Naomi J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether platelets obtained from cats expressed glycoprotein Ib (GPIb).

Sample Population—Platelets obtained from 11 specific-pathogen-free cats.

Procedure—Platelets were analyzed by use of immunofluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, western immunoblot analysis, and immunoprecipitation.

Results—Immunofluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry revealed the protein on the surface of feline platelets. Biochemical studies (western immunoblot analysis and immunoprecipitation) revealed a 140-kd membrane glycoprotein. Additional biochemical studies revealed that feline GPIb was sensitive to proteolysis, because platelet cytoskeletons prepared with low concentrations of a calpain inhibitor (ie, leupeptin; 100 µg/ml) had substantial proteolysis, and there was an association of protein fragments with the actin cytoskeleton.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Analysis of these results indicate that feline platelets express a 140-kd membrane protein that is recognized by monoclonal antibodies developed against GPIb. Application of standardized ELISA to quantitate glycocalicin, the water-soluble fragment of GPIb, may provide important information on the production of microvesicles, increased platelet turnover, and abnormal proteolysis. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:195–201)
Locomotor characteristics of horses with navicular disease
Authors: Williams Gail E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether force-plate evaluation of horses with navicular disease would reveal an abnormal gait that persists despite loss of sensation to the palmar foot region, which may predispose such horses to navicular disease.

Animals—17 clinically normal Thoroughbreds and 8 Thoroughbreds with navicular disease.

Procedure—Data on ground reaction forces were obtained in trotting horses, using a force plate. Forcetime curve variables for clinically normal horses were derived from 4 points at the beginning and 4 points at the end of the vertical and craniocaudal horizontal plots. Principal component analysis was undertaken separately on beginning-of-stride and end-of-stride data, and the first 2 components were represented graphically. Rotation matrices were applied to equivalent data for horses with navicular disease before and after disruption of sensation by administration of a palmar digital nerve blockade.

Results—Prior to nerve block, horses with navicular disease differed significantly from normal horses for beginning-of-stance phase and end-of-stance phase variables. After nerve block, horses with navicular disease maintained the same significant differences from clinically normal horses only for variables at the beginning-of-stance phase.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Horses with navicular disease have abnormal limb-loading force patterns that are not altered by loss of sensation in the palmar region. These abnormal patterns were detected in a horse without navicular disease. Some horses are predisposed to navicular disease as a result of an inherent abnormal gait pattern. Analysis of gait patterns could be used for detection and appropriate management of horses susceptible to development of navicular disease. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:206–210)
Partial characterization of retroviruses from boid snakes with inclusion body disease
Authors: Jacobson Elliott R. , Orós Jorge , Tucker Sylvia J. , Pollock David P. , Kelley Karen L. , Munn Robert J. , Lock Brad A. , Mergia Ayalew , Yamamoto Janet K.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To characterize retroviruses isolated from
boid snakes with inclusion body disease (IBD).

Animals—2 boa constrictors with IBD and 1 boa
exposed to an affected snake.

Procedure—Snakes were euthanatized, and tissue
specimens and blood samples were submitted for
virus isolation. Tissue specimens were cultured with
or without commercially available viper heart cells and
examined by use of transmission electron
microscopy (TEM) for evidence of viral replication.
Reverse transcriptase activity was determined in
sucrose gradient-purified virus. Western blotting was
performed, using polyclonal antibodies against 1 of
the isolated viruses. Specificity of the rabbit anti-virus
antibody was evaluated, using an immunogold-labeling
TEM technique.

Results—3 viruses (RV-1, RV-2, and RV-3) were isolated.
The isolates were morphologically comparable
to members of the Retroviridae family. Reverse transcriptase
activity was high in sucrose gradient fractions
that were rich in virus. Polyclonal antibody
against RV-1 reacted with proteins of similar relative
mobility in RV-1 and RV-2. By use of immunogold
labeling, this antibody also recognized virions of both
RV-1 and RV-2.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A retrovirus
was isolated from boid snakes with IBD or exposed
to IBD. Western blot analysis of viral proteins indicated
that viruses isolated from the different snakes
were similar. Whether this virus represents the
causative agent of IBD is yet to be determined. The
isolation of retroviruses from boid snakes with IBD is
an important step in the process of identifying the
causative agent of this disease. (Am J Vet Res
2001;62:217–224)
Effects of intraluminal distention and decompression on microvascular permeability and hemodynamics of the equine jejunum
Authors: Dabareiner Robin M. , White Nathaniel A. , Donaldson Lydia L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether intraluminal distention and subsequent decompression of the equine jejunum affects intestinal blood flow, hemodynamics, and microvascular permeability.

Animals—5 healthy adult horses.

Procedure—Horses were anesthestized and underwent exploratory laparotomy. Two jejunal segments were identified as sham-operated or instrumented segments. After baseline values were obtained, intraluminal distention was created in the experimental segment to induce an intraluminal pressure of 18 cm H2O. After 120 minutes of distention, the intestine was decompressed for 120 minutes. Mesenteric blood flow, oxygen delivery, oxygen consumption, microvascular permeability, wet weight-to-dry weight ratio, neutrophil infiltration, and vascular resistance were determined and comparisons made among control, sham-operated, and experimental segments.

Results—Mean jejunal blood flow was 21.4 ml/min per kg. There was a significant decrease in mesenteric blood flow to the distended intestine (13.4 ml/min per kg). Blood flow increased significantly during the decompression period (340% of baseline blood flow). Intraluminal distention and subsequent decompression resulted in a significant increase in microvascular permeability, as determined by the osmotic reflection coefficient. Oxygen delivery and oxygen content decreased significantly during the distention period and increased during decompression. Morphologic evaluation revealed a significant increase in edema and neutrophil infiltration after distention and decompression, compared with results for the sham-operated or control segments.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Intraluminal distention and decompression of the equine jejunum results in low-flow ischemia and edema, which may contribute to adhesions and ileus in the postoperative period after surgery for obstructions of the small intestines. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:225–236)
Ultrastructure of selected calcium oxalate-containing urinary calculi from dogs
Authors: Domingo-Neumann Rebecca A. , Ruby Annette L. , Ling Gerald V. , Schiffman Peter S. , Johnson Deedra L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To elucidate the ultrastructural details of calcium oxalate-containing urinary calculi from dogs.

Sample Population—38 specimens selected from a collection of 8,297 oxalate-containing urinary calculi from dogs: 22 specimens composed of calcium oxalate (calcium oxalate monohydrate [COM], calcium oxalate dihydrate [COD], or COM and COD) and 16 specimens composed of calcium oxalate with amorphous calcium phosphate.

Procedure—Analyses of specimens included use of plain, reflected, and polarized light microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with backscattered electron (BSE) imagery, and electron microprobe analysis.

Results—Four texture types were observed in calcium oxalate calculi; 4 texture types of calcium oxalatecalcium phosphate-mixed calculi were recognized. Texture types were delineated through differences in calcium oxalate crystal sizes, which were affected by urine supersaturation and abundance of crystal nucleation sites. Segregation of calcium oxalate from calcium phosphate indicated they do not precipitate under the same conditions. Deposition of calcium phosphate between calcium oxalate crystals decreased the volume of pore spaces within calculi. Porosity was observed along boundaries between COM and COD. Minute pores increased the surface area of calculi exposed to urine, and this increase in liquid-solid interface promotes interaction of crystals with the surrounding urine.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Calcium oxalate urolithiasis is of major concern, because it is often a recurrent disease among dogs, principally treated by surgical removal of calculi, with few effective dissolution strategies. Understanding the ultrastructure and mineralogic content of calcium oxalate and its association with amorphous calcium phosphate is a step toward the solution of this increasingly important medical problem. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:237–247)
Experimental infection of European wild boars and domestic pigs with pseudorabies viruses with differing virulence
Authors: Müller Thomas F. , Teuffert Jürgen , Zellmer Robby , Conraths Franz J.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine susceptibility of European
wild boars (Sus scrofa) to infection with pseudorabies
virus (PrV) and to characterize the virulence of a wildboar
PrV isolate for wild and domestic pigs.

Animals—18 wild boars and 16 domestic pigs.

Procedure—Three groups of 4 wild boars were inoculated
with PrV Bartha, Kaplan, and a wild-boar isolate
(BFW1) and housed with uninfected pigs. Two groups
of domestic pigs (4 and 8 pigs/group, respectively)
were inoculated with various doses of BFW1. Animals
were observed daily for clinical signs, and samples
were tested for PrV excretion and homologous antibodies.
After reactivation of latent infection by
induced immunosuppression, PrV was detected in tissues
of necropsied animals, using cell culture and a
polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results—Clinical signs depended on virulence of the
PrV strain and dose of inoculum. Only infection with
PrV Kaplan resulted in severe disease and death. Virus
was isolated from nasal and genital swab specimens.
Antibodies were first detected on day 7 after inoculation;
a specific humoral immune response was
delayed in BFW1-infected animals. Virus was isolated
from various tissues of Kaplan-infected wild boars,
whereas mainly viral DNA was detected in a few tissues
of Bartha- and BFW1-infected animals, using
PCR after immunosuppression.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—European
wild boars are susceptible to transmission of PrV
infection from domestic pigs and vice-versa. The PrV
isolate BFW1 is of low virulence and seems to be
adapted to the wild boar population from which it was
isolated. (Am J Vet Res 2001;62:252–258)
Maternal expression of functional lipoprotein lipase and effects on body fat mass and body condition scores of mature cats with lipoprotein lipase deficiency
Authors: Backus Robert C. , Ginzinger David G. , Ashbourne Excoffon Katherine J. D. , Clee Susanne M. , Hayden Michael R. , Eckel Robert H. , Hickman M. Anne , Rogers Quinton R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To assess effects of deficiency of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) on body condition scores and lean and fat body masses of adult cats.

Animals—12 cats without LPL mutations and 23 cats that were heterozygous or homozygous carriers of the Gly412Arg LPL mutation.

Procedure—Lean and fat body masses were estimated by use of body condition scores and change in enrichment of serum after IV administration of deuterium oxide. Mass spectroscopy and infrared absorbance methods were used to determine deuterium enrichment.

Results—Fat body mass (mean ± SD; 0.2 ± 0.1 kg) and percentage body fat (6.2 ± 1.4%) of homozygotes were significantly less than those of clinically normal cats and heterozygotes (0.7 ± 0.1 kg, 18.2 ± 1.6% and 0.5 ± 0.1 kg, 15.6 ± 1.7%, respectively). Homozygous offspring of homozygous dams had significantly less fat body mass (0.1 ± 0.1 kg) and percentage body fat (2.1 ± 1.0%) than homozygous offspring of heterozygous dams (0.3 ± 0.1 kg and 9.2 ± 1.7%, respectively). Lean body mass did not differ significantly among groups. For all groups, percentage body fat was significantly correlated with body condition score (r = 0.65), and body condition scores supported findings for fat body mass.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Deficiency of LPL activity in cats diminishes stores of body fat. This is consistent with a low rate of de novo synthesis of fat. The effect of dam on body masses in mature LPLdeficient cats indicates nutrient programming of adipose formation during gestation or lactation. (Am J Vet Res2001;62:264–269)
Endoscopy via a gastric cannula to monitor the development of ulcers in the pars esophagea in pigs after consumption of a finely ground feed combined with a period of withholding of feed
Authors: Cole Jeffrey T. , Gookin Jody L. , Gayle J'mai M. , Eisemann Joan H. , Argenzio Robert A. , , Blikslager Anthony T.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To develop an endoscopic technique for use in monitoring devlopment of gastric ulcers via a gastric cannula during withholding of feed and administration of a finely ground diet to pigs.

Animals—6 pigs weighing between 60 and 70 kg.

Procedure—A gastric cannula was surgically inserted adjacent to the pars esophagea in each pig. Pigs were fed a finely ground diet for two 7-day periods that were separated by a 48-hour period during which feed was withheld. Endoscopic examination via the gastric cannula was used to monitor development of ulcers in the pars esophageal region of the pigs during the 48-hour period of feed withhold and subsequent 7-day feeding period. An ulcer score was assigned during each endoscopic examination. A final examination was performed during necropsy and compared with results for the final endoscopic examination.

Results—Consumption of a finely ground diet for 7 days resulted in progressive erosive damage to the pars esophageal region of the stomach. Further significant increases in ulcerative damage were detected after 24 and 48 hours of withholding of feed. Final examination during necropsy did not reveal significant differences from results obtained during the final endoscopic examination.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Endoscopic examination via a gastric cannula was an effective means of monitoring ulcer development in the pars esophagea of pigs. Feeding a finely ground diet and withholding of feed induced endoscopically observable ulcers in the stratified squamous epithelial region of the stomach. Direct visual examination during necropsy confirmed the accuracy of endoscopic examination. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:1076–1082)
Alkaline phosphatase expression in tissues from glucocorticoid-treated dogs
Authors: Wiedmeyer Charles E. , Solter Philip F. , Hoffmann Walter E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the effect of glucocorticoids on the induction of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) isoenzymes in the liver, kidneys, and intestinal mucosa, 3 tissues that are principally responsible for ALP synthesis in dogs.

Sample Population—Tissues from the liver, kidneys, and intestinal mucosa of 6 dogs treated with 1 mg of prednisone/kg/d for 32 days and 6 untreated control dogs.

Procedure—Using canine-specific primers for the ALP isoenzymes, a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assay was designed to measure liver ALP (LALP) and intestinal ALP (IALP) mRNA and heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA) expression in tissues from the liver and kidneys and intestinal mucosa of glucocorticoid-treated and control dogs. Tissue ALP isoenzyme activities were compared between the groups.

Results—The LALP activity and mRNA concentrations increased in tissues of the liver and kidneys in dogs treated with prednisone, whereas LALP hnRNA increased only in liver tissues. The IALP activity and mRNA expression increased in intestinal mucosa and liver tissues in prednisone-treated dogs. We did not detect an increase in IALP hnRNA expression in these tissues.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Synthesis of ALP is increased in the liver, kidneys, and intestinal mucosa of dogs in response to prednisone treatment. This response appears to be regulated at the transcriptional level, but mechanisms may differ between LALP and IALP. (Am J Vet Res2002;63:1083–1088)