bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concrete Produced by Steel‐Making Slag (Basic Oxygen Furnace) Addition in Portland Cement
Authors: Alanyali Hasan , Çöl Mustafa , Yilmaz Muharrem , Karagöz Şadi
Published: December 2008

A steel‐making slag (basic oxygen furnace) obtained from the Kardemir Steelworks was modified to be used as a clinker additive in the cement industry. This study confirmed that the compressive strength values of concretes produced by addition of these steel‐making slags up to 30 mass% were within the values of Grade‐325 and Grade‐425 steel‐making slag cement. This is an attractive alternative for cement manufacturers, because calcined material is expensive, and slag substitutes are very often cheaper, in addition to its low or zero‐greenhouse‐gas emission.
Effect of Bi2O3 Addition on the Sintering Temperature and Microwave Dielectric Properties of Zn2SiO4 Ceramics
Authors: Kim Jin‐Seong , Nguyen Ngoc‐Huan , Song Myung‐Eun , Lim Jong‐Bong , Paik Dong‐Soo , Nahm Sahn , Paik Jong‐Hoo , Choi Byung‐Hyun , Yu Soon‐Jae
Published: December 2008

Bi2O3 was added to a nominal composition of Zn1.8SiO3.8 (ZS) ceramics to decrease their sintering temperature. When the Bi2O3 content was <8.0 mol%, a porous microstructure with Bi4(SiO4)3 and SiO2 second phases was developed in the specimen sintered at 885°C. However, when the Bi2O3 content exceeded 8.0 mol%, a liquid phase, which formed during sintering at temperatures below 900°C, assisted the densification of the ZS ceramics. Good microwave dielectric properties of Q × f=12,600 GHz, ɛr=7.6, and τf=−22 ppm/°C were obtained from the specimen with 8.0 mol% Bi2O3 sintered at 885°C for 2 h.
The Languages of Siberia
Authors: Vajda Edward J.
Published: December 2008

Although Russian today is the dominant language in virtually every corner of North Asia, Siberia and the Northern Pacific Rim of Asia remain home to over three dozen mutually unintelligible indigenous language varieties. Except for Tuvan, Buryat, and Yakut, most are rapidly losing ground to Russian if not already critically endangered. Several more have already become extinct in the four centuries since the area's incorporation into the Russian state. From an ethnographic perspective, Siberian languages merit attention for their interplay of pastoral and hunter–gatherer influences and also for the fact that Siberia represents the staging ground for prehistoric migrations into the Americas. North Asia contains several autochthonous microfamilies and isolates not found outside this region – the so‐called ‘Paleo‐Asiatic’ (or ‘Paleosiberian’) languages Ket, Yukaghir, Nivkh, and the Chukotko‐Kamchatkan microfamily, which includes Chukchi, Koryak, and Itelmen. Ainu, formerly spoken on Sakhalin and the Kuriles as well as in Hokkaido, and the three varieties of Eskimoan spoken in historic times on the Russian side of Bering Strait, likewise belong to the earlier, non‐food producing layers of ethnolinguistic diversity in North Asia. All of these languages, aside from Eskimoan, are entirely autochthonous to the northern half of Asia. Siberian languages spoken by pastoral groups, on the other hand, belong to families represented more prominently elsewhere. Families, such as Uralic, Turkic, Mongolic, and especially Tungusic (the northern branch of the Tungus‐Manchu family), became dominant in Siberia long before the coming of the Russians. As an extension of pastoral Inner Eurasia, Siberia displays many traits characteristic of a linguistic area: suffixal agglutination, widespread dependent marking typology, a fairly elaborate system of spatial case markers, and the use of case suffixes or postpositions to signal syntactic subordination. There are also notable idiosyncratic features, particularly among the so‐called Paleo‐Siberian languages. These include the areally atypical feature of possessive prefixes and verb‐internal subject/object prefixes in Ket, the unique verb‐internal focus markers of Yukaghir, the extensive numeral allomorphs that serve as nominal classifiers in Nivkh, and the reduplicative stem augmentation used by Chukchi nouns to express the absolutive singular (in contrast to plurals and oblique case forms, where the stem is simple). While North Asia has long been the preserve of linguists writing in Russian or German (including many Finns and Hungarians), since the collapse of the Soviet Union the number of English‐language treatments of Siberian languages is increasing.
Informal Work in Latin America: Competing Perspectives and Recent Debates
Authors: Biles James J.
Published: December 2008

During the ‘lost decade’ of the 1980s, informal work and self‐employment emerged as the most prevalent forms of work throughout Latin America. In response to the economic crisis, the majority of Latin American countries adopted a series of sweeping neoliberal reforms designed to open nations to trade and investment, promote export‐led growth, and generate employment, ultimately reducing the incidence of informal work. Despite the widespread adherence to the neoliberal model and implementation of structural adjustment reforms during the past quarter century, informal work has not diminished and in much of Latin America the odds of finding ‘decent work’ are no better today than during the economic crisis of the 1980s. In light of this seeming paradox, this article offers an overview of the recent debates and controversies surrounding informal work in Latin America. Drawing on recent research, as well as reports and policy documents from key international organizations, I pose and attempt to answer four core questions: What counts as informal work? Who works informally in Latin America? Why do men and women throughout Latin America increasingly resort to informal work? What role does informal work play as a livelihood strategy in Latin America and how has this role changed in recent years?
Application of Index Procedures to Flood Frequency Analysis in Turkey1
Authors: Saf Betül
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  This study investigates the regional analysis of annual maximum flood series of 48 stream gauging stations in the basins of the West Mediterranean Region in Turkey. The region is divided into three homogeneous subregions according to both Student‐t test and Dalrymple homogeneity test. The regional relationships of mean annual flood per unit area‐drainage area and coefficient of skew‐coefficient of variation are obtained. Two statistically meaningful relationships of the mean flood per unit area‐drainage area and a unique relationship between skewness and variation coefficients exist. Results show that the index‐flood method may be applicable to each homogenous subregion to estimate flood quantiles in the study area.
Seasonal and Long‐Term Variations in Hydraulic Head in a Karstic Aquifer: Roswell Artesian Basin, New Mexico1
Authors: Land Lewis , Newton Brad T.
Published: December 2008

Abstract: Water levels in the karstic San Andres limestone aquifer of the Roswell Artesian Basin, New Mexico, display significant variations on a variety of time scales. Large seasonal fluctuations in hydraulic head are directly related to the irrigation cycle in the Artesian Basin, lower in summer months and higher in winter when less irrigation occurs. Longer‐term variations are the result of both human and climatic factors. Since the inception of irrigated farming more than a century ago, over‐appropriation of water resources has caused water levels in the artesian aquifer to fall by as much as 70 m. The general decline in hydraulic head began to reverse in the mid‐1980s due to a variety of conservation measures, combined with a period of elevated rainfall toward the end of the 20th Century.
Residential Water Demand Management: Lessons from Aurora, Colorado1
Authors: Kenney Douglas S. , Goemans Christopher , Klein Roberta , Lowrey Jessica , Reidy Kevin
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  Residential water demand is a function of several factors, some of which are within the control of water utilities (e.g., price, water restrictions, rebate programs) and some of which are not (e.g., climate and weather, demographic characteristics). In this study of Aurora, Colorado, factors influencing residential water demand are reviewed during a turbulent drought period (2000‐2005). Findings expand the understanding of residential demand in at least three salient ways: first, by documenting that pricing and outdoor water restriction policies interact with each other ensuring that total water savings are not additive of each program operating independently; second, by showing that the effectiveness of pricing and restrictions policies varies among different classes of customers (i.e., low, middle, and high volume water users) and between predrought and drought periods; and third, in demonstrating that real‐time information about consumptive use (via the Water Smart Reader) helps customers reach water‐use targets.
On the Relationship Between Mean and Variance of Soil Moisture Fields1
Authors: Pan Feifei , Peters‐Lidard Christa D.
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  The objective of this work was to explain an apparent contradiction in the literature related to the relationship between mean and variance (or standard deviation) of soil moisture fields. Some studies found an increase in soil moisture variance with decreasing mean soil moisture, while others showed a decrease. The evidence of maximum variance in the mid‐range of mean soil moisture was also reported in the literature. In this paper, we focus on the effects of spatial variability of soil texture on the relationship between variance and mean of soil moisture during soil dry‐down processes. Soil texture influences soil moisture mean and variance through its direct effects on evaporation and drainage, which are two main factors controlling soil drying. A differential equation describing soil moisture dry down is proposed and studied. Our study shows that as mean soil moisture is greater than a threshold, variance increases with decreasing mean soil moisture. If mean soil moisture is less than the threshold, variance decreases with decreasing mean soil moisture. The threshold depends on soil texture and is between the field capacity and the wilting point. The soil moisture dry‐down equation is also applied to explain the apparent contradiction with regard to the relationship between mean and variance of soil moisture fields reported in the literature.
MC1R variation and melanoma risk in the Swedish population in relation to clinical and pathological parameters
Authors: Höiom Veronica , Tuominen Rainer , Käller Max , Lindén Diana , Ahmadian Afshin , Månsson‐Brahme Eva , Egyhazi Suzanne , Sjöberg Klas , Lundeberg Joakim , Hansson Johan
Published: December 2008

The genetic background of cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) includes both germ line aberrations in high‐penetrance genes, like CDKN2A, and allelic variation in low‐penetrance genes like the melanocortin‐1 receptor gene, MC1R. Red‐hair colour associated MC1R alleles (RHC) have been associated with red hair, fair skin and risk of CMM. We investigated MC1R and CDKN2A variation in relation to phenotype, clinical factors and CMM risk in the Swedish population. The study cohort consisted of sporadic primary melanoma patients, familial melanoma patients and a control group. An allele‐dose dependent increase in melanoma risk for carriers of variant MC1R alleles (after adjusting for phenotype), with an elevated risk among familial CMM patients, was observed. This elevated risk was found to be significantly associated with an increased frequency of dysplastic nevi (DN) among familial patients compared to sporadic patients. MC1R variation was found to be less frequent among acral lentiginous melanomas (ALM) and dependent on tumour localisation. No association was found between CDKN2A gene variants and general melanoma risk. Two new variants in the POMC gene were identified in red haired individuals without RHC alleles.
Secondary Intracranial Neoplasia in the Dog: 177 Cases (1986–2003)
Authors: Snyder J.M. , Lipitz L. , Skorupski K.A. , Shofer F.S. , Van Winkle T.J.
Published: December 2008

Background:This study investigates the frequency, location, and clinical findings associated with 177 secondary brain tumors in dogs.

Hypothesis:Secondary intracranial neoplasia is more common than primary intracranial neoplasia in dogs during the time period studied, and hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is the most common secondary intracranial tumor.

Animals:One hundred and seventy‐seven client‐owned dogs presented to the Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital between 1986 and 2003.

Methods:Medical records were searched for a diagnosis of intracranial neoplasia in dogs who underwent complete postmortem examination. Of these dogs, those with a diagnosis of primary intracranial neoplasia were excluded.

Results:Of the 177 secondary brain tumors, 51 (29%) were HSAs, 44 (25%) were pituitary tumors, 21 (12%) were lymphosarcomas, and 21 (12%) were metastatic carcinomas. The average age at diagnosis was 9.6 ± 3.0 years. Most tumors were located in the cerebrum, and a mentation change was the most common presenting clinical sign. On postmortem examination, the same tumor that was in the brain was also present in the lung in 84 cases (47%), in the kidney in 62 cases (35%), and in the heart in 55 cases (31%).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Secondary intracranial neoplasia in dogs was more common than primary intracranial neoplasia during the time period studied. Many of these dogs had related disease in other body systems that was apparent on diagnostic tests such as thoracic radiography.
Coagulation Abnormalities and Complications after Percutaneous Liver Biopsy in Horses
Authors: Johns I. C. , Sweeney R. W.
Published: December 2008

Background: Liver biopsy is useful in the diagnosis of liver disease in horses. However, bleeding is the major complication. Liver dysfunction can result in abnormalities in coagulation, although there is no definitive association between risk of hemorrhage after biopsy and coagulopathy in humans. Frequency of coagulopathies in horses with liver disease and the nature and frequency of complications after liver biopsy are not reported.

Hypothesis/Objectives: To determine whether there is an association between coagulopathy and hemorrhage after liver biopsy in horses.

Animals: Horses with suspected liver disease from which a liver biopsy had been obtained.

Methods: Retrospective study. Variables indicative of coagulation were recorded. The frequency and nature of complications after biopsy were assessed using clinical and hematologic data. The association between abnormal coagulation variables and complications was assessed.

Results: Seventy biopsies were obtained from 66 horses. At least 1 coagulation profile abnormality was identified in 58% of the 43 horses with histopathologically confirmed liver disease. Complications were observed in 4/32 monitored horses (33 biopsies). Three horses had a decrease in the packed cell volume suggestive of subclinical bleeding, and 1 horse developed a diaphragmatic hematoma. There was no association between coagulation profile abnormality and complications.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Abnormalities of coagulation are common in horses with liver disease. Liver biopsy appears to be a safe procedure in the horse. An abnormal coagulation profile is not clearly associated with an increased risk of complications after biopsy.
Survival Characteristics and Prognostic Variables of Dogs with Mitral Regurgitation Attributable to Myxomatous Valve Disease
Authors: Borgarelli M. , Savarino P. , Crosara S. , Santilli R. A. , Chiavegato D. , Poggi M. , Bellino C. , La Rosa G. , Zanatta R. , Haggstrom J. , Tarducci A.
Published: December 2008

Background:There are few studies evaluating the natural history and prognostic variables in chronic mitral valve disease (CMVI) in a heterogeneous population of dogs.

Objectives:To estimate survival and prognostic value of clinical and echocardiographic variables in dogs with CMVI of varying severity. Five hundred and fifty‐eight dogs belonging to 36 breeds were studied.

Methods:Dogs were included after clinical examination and echocardiography. Long‐term outcome was assessed by telephone interview with the owner.

Results:The mean follow‐up time was 22.7 ± 13.6 months, and the median survival time was 19.5 ± 13.2 months. In univariate analysis, age>8 years, syncope, HR>140 bpm, dyspnea, arrhythmias, class of heart failure (International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council), furosemide therapy, end‐systolic volume‐index (ESV‐I)>30 mL/m2, left atrial to aortic root ratio (LA/Ao)>1.7, E wave transmitral peak velocity (Emax)>1.2 m/s, and bilateral mitral valve leaflet engagement were associated with survival time when all causes of death were included. For the cardiac‐related deaths, all the previous variables except dyspnea and EDV‐I>100 mL/m2were significantly associated with survival time. Significant variables in multivariate analysis (all causes of death) were syncope, LA/Ao>1.7 m/s, and Emax>1.2 m/s. For cardiac‐related death, the only significant variable was LA/Ao>1.7.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Mild CMVI is a relatively benign condition in dogs. However, some clinical variables can identify dogs at a higher risk of death; these variables might be useful to identify individuals that need more frequent monitoring or therapeutic intervention.
Minimally Invasive Per‐Catheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus Occlusion in Dogs Using a Prototype Duct Occluder
Authors: Nguyenba T. P. , Tobias A. H.
Published: December 2008

Background:Per‐catheter patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) occlusion in dogs with devices intended for humans is associated with technical difficulties, high rates of procedure abandonment, device migration, and residual ductal flow.

Hypothesis:Use of a custom‐made canine duct occluder (Amplatz Canine Duct Occluder, ACDO) would be feasible in dogs of varying weights and somatotypes and effective in occluding a wide range of PDA shapes and sizes.

Animals:Eighteen client‐owned dogs of various breeds with PDA. Weights ranged from 3.8 to 32.3 kg (median, 17.8 kg), and angiographic minimal ductal diameters ranged from 1.1 to 6.9 mm (median, 3.7 mm). Ductal morphologies included types IIA, IIB, and III.

Methods:Per‐catheter PDA occlusion with the ACDO was performed in all dogs. Persistent or recurrent ductal flow was assessed at the end of the procedure by angiography and at 1 day, 3 months, and ≥12 months after the procedure by echocardiography.

Results:Successful ACDO placement was achieved in all 18 dogs. One dog required a 2nd procedure with a larger ACDO after the 1st device migrated to the pulmonary vasculature. Complete occlusion was confirmed in 17 of 18 dogs during the procedure, as well as at 1 day and 3 months after the procedure, and in 12 of 13 dogs evaluated at ≥12 months after the procedure.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Per‐catheter PDA occlusion in dogs with the ACDO is feasible and effective in dogs of a wide range of weights and somatotypes and with PDAs of varying shapes and sizes.
Principles of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Apheresis in a Preclinical Canine Model of Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Authors: Lupu M. , Gooley T. , Zellmer E. , Graves S.S. , Storb R.
Published: December 2008

Background: Preclinical studies of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) transplantation conducted in a well‐established canine hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) model have been successfully translated to human patients over the past 5 decades.

Objective: We retrospectively investigated the safety and feasibility of PBMC apheresis in the canine model of HCT by analyzing apheresis parameters, cell yields, and the impacts of donor‐related and apheresis‐related variables on collection yields and donor stability.

Animals: One hundred and twenty dogs that underwent PBMC aphereses were evaluated.

Methods: Aphereses were performed with a COBE Spectra blood separator and a central dual‐lumen catheter, with or without recombinant canine granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (rcG‐CSF) stem cell mobilization.

Results: Aphereses from dogs not given rcG‐CSF yielded an average volume of 280 ± 42 mL containing an average of 15,086 ± 9,834 leukocytes/mL. Aphereses from dogs given rcG‐CSF yielded an average volume of 261 ± 55 mL containing an average of 39,711 ± 24,488 leukocytes/mL. Higher pre‐apheresis white blood cell (WBC) counts correlated with higher apheresis WBC yields (R=0.50, P<.0001). The correlations of collection time, inlet volume, and collection flow rate on WBC yields were statistically significant but only weak to moderate in magnitude (R=0.34, P=.0001; R=0.38, P=.0006; R=0.26, P=.002, respectively) as were the correlations of collection time and inlet volume on collection volumes (R=0.30, P=.002; R=0.42, P<.0001, respectively). All dogs recovered promptly after PBMC aphereses and catheter removal, without complications.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: These data may be useful for translating PBMC apheresis technology to the field of veterinary oncology for the treatment of dogs with hematologic malignancies.
Phase I Clinical Evaluation of Carboplatin in Tumor‐Bearing Cats: A Veterinary Cooperative Oncology Group Study
Authors: Kisseberth W.C. , Vail D.M. , Yaissle J. , Jeglum K.A. , Couto C.G. , Ward H. , Khanna C. , Obradovich J. E.
Published: December 2008

Background:The dosage of carboplatin in cats has been reported anecdotally and experimentally in non‐tumor‐bearing cats, but the dosage for carboplatin treatment in tumor‐bearing cats has yet to be defined in a prospective clinical trial.

Purpose:To determine the maximally tolerated dose (MTD) and dose‐limiting toxicosis (DLT) of carboplatin in tumor‐bearing cats.

Cats:Fifty‐nine cats with measurable solid tumors.

Methods:The starting dose of carboplatin was 160 mg/m2of body surface area IV. Doses were increased by 20 mg/m2in cohorts of 3–14 cats until the MTD was reached.

Results:The 59 cats entered into this multi‐institutional phase I study received 1 or more doses of carboplatin at various dosages and were evaluated for toxicity, response to treatment, or both. The MTD was 240 mg/m2and neutropenia was the DLT. For the 1st cycle of treatment in 44 cats evaluated for neutropenia, 6 episodes of grade 3 or greater neutropenia occurred on days 7 (n=1), 14 (n=4), and 21 (n=1). There was no evidence of drug‐induced nephrotoxicosis or pulmonary edema. Preliminary evidence of antitumor activity was observed in 7 of 59 (11.9%; 95% CI, 5.6–22.8%) cats evaluated for response to treatment. There was 1 complete response (cutaneous hemangiosarcoma) and 6 partial responses (4 injection site sarcomas, 1 oral squamous cell carcinoma, 1 lymphoma). Responses were of short duration (median, 42 days; range, 7–168 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:The dose of carboplatin recommended to treat tumor‐bearing cats is 240 mg/m2IV every 3–4 weeks.
Poor Reproducibility of Template Bleeding Time in Horses
Authors: Segura D. , Monreal L.
Published: December 2008

Background:Template bleeding time (TBT) is considered to be a useful test for detecting platelet function disorders and the effect of platelet‐activating drugs, but studies in human medicine have concluded that the test has poor reproducibility and sensitivity.

Hypothesis:TBT has poor reproducibility in horses and has insufficient sensitivity to detect the effect of etamsylate on platelet function.

Animals:Twenty healthy horses.

Methods:TBT was determined and repeated 2 hours and 30 days later. TBT was also performed 2 hours after IV administration of etamsylate.

Results:Although no statistical differences were seen between the TBT values obtained at different times, the coefficients of variation for TBT replicates ranged from 26.8% to 45.5%. The reference range for TBT was 138.4–860.4 seconds. No statistically significant shortening of the mean TBT value was observed after etamsylate administration.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance:TBT has poor reproducibility, and the reference range is too wide to make TBT useful in a clinical setting. Other tests with higher reproducibility should be considered when assessing platelet function disorders in horses.
Serial Evaluation of Protein C and Antithrombin in Dogs with Sepsis
Authors: De Laforcade A.M. , Rozanski E.A. , Freeman L.M. , Li W.
Published: December 2008

Background:Protein C (PC) and antithrombin (AT) activities are decreased in humans with severe sepsis, and persistent changes are associated with decreased survival. In dogs with sepsis, PC and AT have been shown to be decreased at the time of diagnosis.

Hypothesis:PC and AT activities change significantly over time in dogs with sepsis and may be related to outcome.

Animals:Twelve dogs with naturally occurring sepsis.

Methods:Blood was collected from 12 dogs with sepsis, defined as histopathologic or microbiologic confirmation of infection and two of the following: hypo‐ or hyperthermia, tachycardia, tachypnea, leukopenia, leukocytosis, or >3% bands. The time of 1st sampling was considered day 1 and sampling was repeated every 24 hours for 5 days or until discharge or death. Changes over time were analyzed by ANOVA with repeated measures, and the association between PC and AT and outcome was determined by a 2‐equation treatment effects model.

Results:Nine dogs and 11 dogs had decreased PC and AT activity on day 1, respectively (mean PC, 66.0 ± 25.8%; mean AT, 48.1 ± 16.5%). PC activity significantly decreased from day 1 to day 2 (P= .001), then increased over time. Changes in PC (P< .001) and AT (P< .001) over time were likely associated with outcome with nonsurvivors having lower PC and AT activities than survivors.

Conclusion:Results of this preliminary study show that PC and AT activities change significantly over time in dogs with sepsis and both are likely related to survival.
Glomerular Filtration Rate Estimated by 3‐Sample Plasma Clearance of Iohexol in 118 Healthy Dogs
Authors: Bexfield N.H. , Heiene R. , Gerritsen R.J. , Risøen U. , Eliassen K.A. , Herrtage M.E. , Michell A.R.
Published: December 2008

Background:Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) decreases in the aging human kidney, but limited data exist in dogs.

Hypothesis:There is an effect of age and body size on estimated GFR in healthy dogs.

Animals:One hundred and eighteen healthy dogs of various breeds, ages, and body weights presenting to 3 referral centers.

Methods:GFR was estimated in clinically healthy dogs between 1 and 14 years of age. GFR was estimated from the plasma clearance of iohexol, by a compartmental model and an empirical correction formula, normalized to body weight in kilograms or liters of extracellular fluid volume (ECFV). For data analysis, dogs were divided into body weight quartiles 1.8–12.4, 13.2–25.5, 25.7–31.6, and 32.0–70.3 kg.

Results:In the complete data set, there was no trend toward lower estimated GFR/kg or GFR/ECFV with increasing age. GFR decreased with age in dogs in the smallest weight quartile only. A significant negative linear relationship was detected between body weight and estimated GFR/kg and GFR/ECFV. Reference ranges in different weight quartiles were 1.54–4.25, 1.29–3.50, 0.95–3.36, and 1.12–3.39 mL/min/kg, respectively. Standardization to ECFV rather than kilogram body weight did not produce substantial changes in the relationships between GFR estimates and age or weight.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Interpretation of GFR results for early diagnosis of renal failure should take into account the weight and the age of the patient for small dogs.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Histological Classification of Intracranial Meningiomas in 112 Dogs
Authors: Sturges B.K. , Dickinson P.J. , Bollen A.W. , Koblik P.D. , Kass P.H. , Kortz G.D. , Vernau K.M. , Knipe M.F. , LeCouteur R.A. , Higgins R.J.
Published: December 2008

Background: Intracranial meningiomas are the most common primary brain tumors in dogs. Classification of meningiomas by tumor grade and subtype has not been reported, and the value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics for predicting tumor subtype and grade has not been investigated.

Hypothesis: Canine intracranial meningiomas are a heterogenous group of tumors with differing histological subtypes and grades. Prediction of histopathological classification is possible based on MRI characteristics.

Animals: One hundred and twelve dogs with a histological diagnosis of intracranial meningioma.

Methods: Retrospective observational study.

Results: Meningiomas were overrepresented in the Golden Retriever and Boxer breeds with no sex predilection. The incidence of specific tumor grades was 56% benign (Grade I), 43% atypical (Grade II), and 1% malignant (Grade III). Grade I histological subtypes included meningothelial (43%), transitional (40%), microcystic (8%), psammomatous (6%), and angiomatous (3%). No statistically significant (P < .05) associations were found among tumor subtype or grade and any of the MRI features studied.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Meningiomas in dogs differ from their counterparts in humans mainly in their higher incidence of atypical (Grade II) tumors observed. MRI characteristics do not allow for prediction of meningioma subtype or grade, emphasizing the necessity of histopathology for antemortem diagnosis. The higher incidence of atypical tumors in dogs may contribute to the poorer therapeutic response in dogs with meningiomas as compared with the response in humans with meningiomas.
Canine Lymphoproliferative Disease Characterized by Lymphocytosis: Immunophenotypic Markers of Prognosis
Authors: Williams M.J. , Avery A.C. , Lana S.E. , Hillers K.R. , Bachand A.M. , Avery P.R.
Published: December 2008

Background: Canine lymphoproliferative disease often presents with lymphocytosis and is immunophenotypically diverse.

Hypothesis: Immunophenotype predicts prognosis in canine lymphoproliferative disorders involving circulating lymphocytosis.

Animals: Dogs that had peripheral blood evaluation performed by flow cytometry by the Clinical Immunology Service at Colorado State University between 2003 and 2005.

Methods: Outcome data regarding treatment and survival were sought on patients with lymphocytosis comprising a single lymphocyte subset. Ninety‐six patients that met the inclusion criteria had sufficient follow‐up information to be included in the study.

Results: Four main phenotypic classifications were found: CD8+ T‐cell, CD21+ B‐cell, CD4‐8‐5+ (aberrant T‐cell phenotype), and CD34+ (undifferentiated progenitor). Expression of CD34 predicted poor outcome with median survival of 16 days (P < .0001) compared with other phenotypes. Within the CD8+ phenotype, dogs presenting with a lymphocytosis >30,000 lymphocytes/μL had significantly shorter median survival (131 days) than those presenting with <30,000 lymphocytes/μL (1098 days, P < .0008). Within the T‐cell leukemias, there was no difference in outcome between dogs with CD4‐8‐5+ leukemia and dogs with the CD8+ T‐cell phenotype nor was the loss of expression of the pan‐leukocyte marker CD45 associated with decreased survival time. A CD21+ lymphocytosis composed of large cells was associated with shorter survival time (129 days) than those with smaller circulating cells (median survival not reached, P < .01).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Immunophenotyping provides an objective method for determining prognosis in lymphoproliferative disorders characterized by lymphocytosis.
Enhanced Bactericidal Activity against Escherichia coli in Calves Fed Morinda citrifolia (Noni) Puree
Authors: Schäfer M. , Sharp P. , Brooks V.J. , Xu J. , Cai J. , Keuler N.S. , Peek S.F. , Godbee R.G. , Schultz R.D. , Darien B.J.
Published: December 2008

Background: Although adequate colostrum intake and properly used antibiotics can provide much protection for the bovine neonate, increased antibiotic scrutiny and consumer demand for organic products have prompted investigations of natural immunomodulators for enhancing calf health. One plant‐based immunomodulator, Morinda citrifolia (noni) fruit, is a well‐recognized natural product that has a broad range of immunomodulatory effects.

Hypothesis: Neonatal calves fed noni puree would demonstrate whole blood phagocytic capacity in Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive in vitro assays.

Animals: Blood samples from 18 neonatal Holstein bull calves.

Methods: Calves were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 comprised control calves, whereas Group 2 received 30 mL of noni puree twice a day in milk replacer. Day 0 blood samples were obtained between 36 and 48 hours of age before the first feeding of puree. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid anticoagulated blood was collected from each calf on days 0, 3, 7, and 14. Bactericidal assays were performed to estimate the percentage killing of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis.

Results: Blood samples from noni puree‐fed calves displayed significantly more E. coli bacterial killing than did controls on day 14, and although differences were not significant on days 0, 3, and 7, bacterial killing progressively increased over time. There was no significant difference between the groups for S. epidermidis killing.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The immunomodulatory effect of noni puree may prove valuable in the future as production animal antibiotic use becomes more restricted. Additional clinical trials are warranted to investigate the clinical application of noni puree in promoting calf health.
Plasma d‐Dimer Concentration in Sick Newborn Foals
Authors: Armengou L. , Monreal L. , Tarancón I. , Navarro M. , Ríos J. , Segura D.
Published: December 2008

Background: Septicemia is associated with a systemic inflammatory response, hemostatic activation, and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC).

Hypothesis: Increased plasma d‐dimer concentration occurs in septic neonates and can reliably detect sepsis or DIC, and predict death in ill neonatal foals.

Animals: 40 septic, 41 nonseptic hospitalized foals, and 22 healthy neonates.

Methods: Prospective observational clinical study. Blood samples were collected on admission, at 24–48 hours after admission, and at the time of discharge or euthanasia. Plasma d‐dimer concentration, clotting times, antithrombin activity, and fibrinogen concentration were determined.

Results: On admission, d‐dimer concentration values were significantly higher in septic foals (median, 25–75th percentiles; 568, 245–2013 ng/mL) compared with the nonseptic and healthy groups (386, 175–559 and 313, 152–495 ng/mL, respectively), and in septic foals at the age of 2–7 days compared with similar‐age nonseptic foals. By means of samples taken at 24–48 hours of hospitalization and a cut‐off value of > 2000 ng/mL, D dimer concentration was significantly associated with the diagnosis of septicemia (odds ratio [OR] = 19.6, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.9–203) and death (OR = 8.7, 95% CI 1.8–43). Owing to a high false‐positive prediction rate (71%), a normal d‐dimer concentration is better at eliminating the diagnosis of sepsis than an increased d‐dimer concentration at predicting sepsis. Fifty percent of septic foals had a diagnosis of DIC, but d‐dimer concentration was not significantly associated with the diagnosis of DIC.

Conclusions and clinical importance: Septic foals showed a marked activation of coagulation and fibrinolytic systems and a high prevalence of DIC. Increased plasma d‐dimer concentration is significantly associated with the diagnosis of sepsis.
A Phase II Clinical Trial of Vinorelbine in Dogs with Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumors
Authors: Grant I.A. , Rodriguez C.O. , Kent M.S. , Sfilgoi G. , Gordon I. , Davis G. , Lord L. , London C.A.
Published: December 2008

Background:Few effective drugs are available to treat dogs with locally aggressive or metastatic mast cell disease.

Hypothesis:Vinorelbine, a semisynthetic derivative of vinblastine, is an effective drug for the treatment of canine mast cell tumors (MCT).

Animals:Twenty‐four dogs with cutaneous MCT.

Methods:Dogs with at least 1 measurable, cytologically confirmed, and previously untreated cutaneous MCT received a single treatment with vinorelbine at the previously established dosage of 15 mg/m2IV. Tumor measurements and CBC were evaluated before and 7 days after treatment. Adverse events were graded according to Veterinary Cooperative Oncology Group (VCOG) guidelines.

Statistics:Data were accrued in accordance with a Simon's 2‐stage design with a noninteresting response rate of .05, a target response of .25, and α and β values of .10.

Results:Three of 24 dogs (13%) had a response to treatment, including 1 measurable complete response and 1 measurable partial response. The 3rd dog had microscopic complete response to treatment with stable measurable disease. Twenty other dogs (83%) had stable disease and 1 dog (4%) had progressive disease. Neutropenia occurred in 13 dogs (54%) (grade 1, n = 4; grade 3, n = 6; grade 4, n = 3). Gastrointestinal toxicity occurred in 11 dogs (46%) (anorexia: grade 1, n = 3; grade 2, n = 1; grade 3, n = 1; diarrhea: grade 1, n = 2; grade 3, n = 1; vomiting: grade 1, n = 5; grade 3, n = 1).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Vinorelbine was associated with an overall response rate of 13% and a high prevalence of neutropenia. Additional studies are indicated to determine if repeated dosing of vinorelbine or combination of vinorelbine with other drugs increases the observed biologic activity against canine MCT.
Marbofloxacin for the Treatment of Experimentally InducedMycoplasma haemofelisInfection in Cats
Authors: Ishak A.M. , Dowers K.L. , Cavanaugh M.T. , Powell C.C. , Hawley J.R. , Radecki S.V. , Lappin M.R.
Published: December 2008

Background:Administration of tetracyclines or fluoroquinolones is associated with improvement in clinical and laboratory abnormalities in cats infected withMycoplasma haemofelis. No treatment protocol has consistently eliminated the organism, and antimicrobial susceptibility may vary amongM. haemofelisisolates. Continued search for effective therapies is warranted.

Hypothesis:Marbofloxacin administered at the onset of clinical illness will be safe and effective for the treatment ofM. haemofelis.

Animals:Fourteen young adult, laboratory‐reared cats housed together in a specific pathogen‐free facility.

Methods:Twelve cats were inoculated IV with 2.0 mL of blood from 2M. haemofelispositive cats. Clinical parameters were assessed daily. CBC and hemoplasma polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay were performed before inoculation, weekly for 1–3 weeks postinoculation (PI) and twice weekly 3–6 weeks PI. Treatment with marbofloxacin (2.75 mg/kg PO daily for 14 days) was initiated in 6 randomly selected cats when PCV was <30% or fever was >102.5°F (39.2 °C). Cats that were PCR positive on day 7 of therapy were treated for 28 days. Cats that were PCR negative on day 42 PI were treated with 20 mg/kg methylprednisolone acetate IM on day 50 PI.

Results:Significant differences between groups on some days after inoculation included higher PCV and red blood cell counts, lower mean cell volume, and higher mean cell hemoglobin content in marbofloxacin‐treated cats. No differences in PCR assay results were noted between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Marbofloxacin was safe and resulted in more rapid hematologic improvement inM. haemofelis‐infected cats, but did not change clinical scores and did not consistently eliminate infection.
Heart Murmurs and Valvular Regurgitation in Thoroughbred Racehorses: Epidemiology and Associations with Athletic Performance
Authors: Young L.E. , Rogers K. , Wood J.L.N.
Published: December 2008

Background:Cardiac murmurs associated with valvular regurgitation occur commonly in conditioned performance horses, but their association with athletic performance is unknown.

Hypothesis:Cardiac valvular regurgitation has a negative association with race performance.

Animals:Five hundred and twenty‐six “race fit” Thoroughbred racehorses engaged in either flat (race distance 1,000–2,500 m) or jump racing (race distance 3,200–6,400 m).

Methods:Cardiac auscultation and color flow Doppler (CFD) echocardiography were performed on 777 occasions. The associations between the presence and severity of either an audible cardiac murmur or valvular regurgitation assessed by CFD, and published, objective measures of race performance were determined using a standard regression approach.

Results:The prevalence of murmurs and of regurgitation varied significantly between racetypes (P<.02), generally increasing from 2‐year olds to chasers. There were no consistent associations between racing performance and either grade of murmur or regurgitation, whether the presence or absence of regurgitation or murmur, or only murmurs ≥3/6 or regurgitation ≥6/9, were considered.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:There were differences in prevalence and severity of murmurs of atrioventricular and aortic valve regurgitation between racehorses in different disciplines. Data also showed that neither regurgitation nor murmurs were negatively associated with Timeform rating, an index of UK racehorse quality, in any of the groups of racehorses studied.
Parenteral Selenium and Vitamin E Supplementation of Weaned Beef Calves
Authors: Swecker W.S. , Hunter K.H. , Shanklin R.K. , Scaglia G. , Fiske D.A. , Fontenot J.P.
Published: December 2008

Background:The weaning process in beef calves elicits physiological stress responses that can negatively affect performance and health. Supplementation of vitamins and minerals, particularly selenium (Se) and vitamin E, might be warranted.

Hypothesis:That parenteral administration of Se or vitamin E would correct or prevent deficiencies of these nutrients in postweaned beef calves during a backgrounding period (42 days after weaning).

Animals:One hundred and forty‐four weaned steers (200–250 kg) in 3 trials.

Methods:One trial was conducted with cattle on a dry lot fed a total mixed ration and 2 trials were conducted on cattle on pasture. Selenium was administered at 0.05 mg/kg BW (SC) and vitamin E was administered at 1500 IU on days 0 and 28 (SC).

Results:A treatment effect attributable to Se or vitamin E supplementation on average daily gain was not detected in any trials. Parenteral supplementation with Se on days 0 and 28 resulted in higher serum Se concentrations as compared with controls on day 42. Parenteral supplementation with Se on days 0 and 28 improved Se status from marginal to adequate in 1 trial. Parenteral supplementation with vitamin E did not improve serum vitamin E concentrations in any experiment.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Supplementation with vitamin E or Se or a combination of both did not have a significant effect on calf performance during the 42‐day backgrounding period.
Glomerular Filtration Rate in Dogs with Leishmaniasis and Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Cortadellas O. , Del Palacio M.J. Fernández , Talavera J. , Bayón A.
Published: December 2008

Background:Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) measurement is an indicator of kidney function. However, its usefulness in dogs at early stages of spontaneous chronic kidney disease (CKD) of glomerular origin, where routine laboratory techniques are not sufficiently sensitive, remains unproved.

Hypothesis:That GFR is reduced in proteinuric nonazotemic or mildly azotemic dogs with CKD secondary to leishmaniasis.

Animals:Twenty‐six dogs with CKD secondary to leishmaniasis and 10 healthy dogs (control group).

Methods:CBC, serum biochemistry, and urinalysis (microalbuminuria and urine protein/creatinine ratio [UPC]) were performed in all dogs. GFR was calculated by measuring exogenous creatinine clearance. Based on degree of proteinuria and serum creatinine concentration (SCr), dogs were classified as group A (control; n = 10): UPC < 0.2, SCr < 1.4 mg/dL; group B (n = 8): UPC, 0.2–0.5, SCr < 1.4 mg/dL; group C (n = 10): UPC > 0.5, SCr < 1.4 mg/dL; group D (n = 5): SCr, 1.4–2 mg/dL; group E (n = 3): SCr > 2 mg/dL.

Results:GFR (mL/kg/min) was 3.9 ± 0.29, 4.4 ± 0.74, 4.5 ± 1.44, 2.8 ± 0.97, and 1.5 ± 0.43 for groups A, B, C, D, and E, respectively. Eleven dogs (1 from group B, 3 from group C, 4 from group D, and all 3 dogs from group E) had an abnormally low GFR. Four dogs from group B and 5 dogs from group C had a GFR above the upper reference range (>4.5 mL/min/kg).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance:Some proteinuric nonazotemic or mildly azotemic dogs with leishmaniasis have low GFR, but glomerular hyperfiltration occurs in other dogs.
Retrospective Comparison of Caffeine and Doxapram for the Treatment of Hypercapnia in Foals with Hypoxic‐Ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Giguère S. , Slade J.K. , Sanchez L.C.
Published: December 2008

Background: Despite a lack of data regarding their efficacy, both caffeine and doxapram have been recommended for treatment of hypercapnia in equine neonates with central nervous system damage.

Hypothesis: Caffeine and doxapram alleviate hypercapnia in foals with hypoxic‐ischemic encephalopathy.

Animals: Sixteen foals treated with either caffeine (n = 8) or doxapram (n = 8).

Methods: Information on age, body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, arterial blood gas parameters, duration of therapy, and outcome was abstracted from each medical record.

Results: Therapy with doxapram resulted in a significant decrease in partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2 [P= .004]), bicarbonate concentration (P= .002), and base excess (P= .005) compared with baseline values but failed to correct acidemia. In contrast, administration of caffeine did not result in significant changes from baseline values. The percentage decrease in PaCO2 and bicarbonate concentration was significantly greater in foals treated with doxapram than in foals treated with caffeine (P= .004). The proportions of foals that achieved the targeted PaCO2 (≤ 50 mmHg) were significantly higher in foals treated with doxapram than in foals treated with caffeine (P= .029). The proportion of survivors in the 2 treatment groups was not significantly different.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Doxapram is more effective than caffeine for rapid correction of hypercapnia in foals with hypoxic‐ischemic encephalopathy.
Effect of Age, Feeding, and Omeprazole Administration on Gastric Tonometry in Healthy Neonatal Foals
Authors: Sanchez L.C. , Giguère S. , Javsicas L.H. , Bier J. , Walrond C.J. , Womble A.Y.
Published: December 2008

Background:Gastric tonometry is commonly used in humans as an assessment of intestinal mucosal perfusion. Values in healthy foals are currently unknown.

Hypothesis:Age, enteral feeding, and omeprazole administration would significantly alter gastric tonometry measurements in neonatal foals.

Animals:Nine clinically normal foals were used to assess the effect of age and feeding, and 8 similar foals were used to assess the effect of omeprazole.

Methods:At 1, 7, and 14 days of age, gastric intramucosal PCO2(PgCO2) and arterial blood gas samples were obtained at baseline, immediately after feeding milk, and 1 and 2 hours after fasting for calculation of the intramucosal‐arterial PCO2difference (ΔCO2). To evaluate the effect of omeprazole, foals were evaluated twice as above, 2 hours after fasting, comparing administration of omeprazole to no drug.

Results:There was a significant effect of age and feeding on PgCO2and ΔCO2, whereas arterial PCO2was not significantly affected by these factors. Postfeeding ΔCO2values were significantly lower than fasted values. Baseline and postfeeding ΔCO2increased with age. There was no significant effect of age on data collected after 1 or 2 hours of fasting. The 90% reference interval for ΔCO2data collected after fasting was 0–54 mmHg. Foals had a significantly higher mean gastric pH and significantly higher ΔCO2and PgCO2following omeprazole relative to no treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Because of the high and variable ΔCO2, which is exacerbated by omeprazole administration, the reference interval in foals is extremely wide.