bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ISOLATING BEHAVIORAL MECHANISMS OF INTERTEMPORAL CHOICE: NICOTINE EFFECT ON DELAY DISCOUNTING AND AMOUNT SENSITIVITY
Authors: Locey Matthew L. , Dallery Jesse
Published: October 2009

Many drugs of abuse produce changes in impulsive choice, that is, choice for a smaller—sooner reinforcer over a larger—later reinforcer. Because the alternatives differ in both delay and amount, it is not clear whether these drug effects are due to the differences in reinforcer delay or amount. To isolate the effects of delay, we used a titrating delay procedure. In phase 1, 9 rats made discrete choices between variable delays (1 or 19 s, equal probability of each) and a delay to a single food pellet. The computer titrated the delay to a single food pellet until the rats were indifferent between the two options. This indifference delay was used as the starting value for the titrating delay for all future sessions. We next evaluated the acute effects of nicotine (subcutaneous 1.0, 0.3, 0.1, and 0.03 mg/kg) on choice. If nicotine increases delay discounting, it should have increased preference for the variable delay. Instead, nicotine had very little effect on choice. In a second phase, the titrated delay alternative produced three food pellets instead of one, which was again produced by the variable delay (1 s or 19 s) alternative. Under this procedure, nicotine increased preference for the one pellet alternative. Nicotine‐induced changes in impulsive choice are therefore likely due to differences in reinforcer amount rather than differences in reinforcer delay. In addition, it may be necessary to include an amount sensitivity parameter in any mathematical model of choice when the alternatives differ in reinforcer amount.
TOKEN REINFORCEMENT: A REVIEW AND ANALYSIS
Authors: Hackenberg Timothy D.
Published: October 2009

Token reinforcement procedures and concepts are reviewed and discussed in relation to general principles of behavior. The paper is divided into four main parts. Part I reviews and discusses previous research on token systems in relation to common behavioral functions—reinforcement, temporal organization, antecedent stimulus functions, and aversive control—emphasizing both the continuities with other contingencies and the distinctive features of token systems. Part II describes the role of token procedures in the symmetrical law of effect, the view that reinforcers (gains) and punishers (losses) can be measured in conceptually analogous terms. Part III considers the utility of token reinforcement procedures in cross‐species analysis of behavior more generally, showing how token procedures can be used to bridge the methodological gulf separating research with humans from that with other animals. Part IV discusses the relevance of token systems to the field of behavioral economics. Token systems have the potential to significantly advance research and theory in behavioral economics, permitting both a more refined analysis of the costs and benefits underlying standard economic models, and a common currency more akin to human monetary systems. Some implications for applied research and for broader theoretical integration across disciplines will also be considered.
Compliance With Multiple-Dose Vaccine Schedules Among Older Children, Adolescents, and Adults: Results From a Vaccine Safety Datalink Study
Authors: Nelson Jennifer C. , Bittner Rachel C. L. , Bounds Lora , Zhao Shanshan , Baggs James , Donahue James G. , Hambidge Simon J. , Jacobsen Steven J. , Klein Nicola P. , Naleway Allison L. , Zangwill Kenneth M. , Jackson Lisa A.
Published: October 2009

Objectives. We studied compliance with multiple-dose vaccine schedules, assessed factors associated with noncompliance, and examined timeliness of series completion among older children, adolescents, and adults.

Methods. We conducted a large, multisite, retrospective cohort study of older children, adolescents, and adults in the Vaccine Safety Datalink population from 1996 through 2004. We quantified the rates of completion of all required doses for varicella, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B vaccines according to their recommended schedules.

Results. Among those who received a first dose of varicella (n = 16 075), hepatitis A (n = 594 917), and hepatitis B (n = 590 445) vaccine, relatively few completed the series (55%–65% for hepatitis B vaccine and 40%–50% for hepatitis A and varicella vaccines in most age groups). Compliance was lowest among adolescents (35.9%) and Medicaid recipients (29.7%) who received varicella vaccine and among younger adult age groups who received hepatitis A vaccine (25%–35% across those age groups). Even among series completers, there was a relatively long interval of undervaccination between the first and last doses.

Conclusions. Compliance with multiple-dose vaccine series among older children, adolescents, and adults is suboptimal. Further evaluations of strategies to improve compliance in these populations are needed.
Pandemic Influenza: Implications for Programs Controlling for HIV Infection, Tuberculosis, and Chronic Viral Hepatitis
Authors: Heffelfinger James D. , Patel Pragna , Brooks John T. , Calvet Helene , Daley Charles L. , Dean Hazel D. , Edlin Brian R. , Gensheimer Kathleen F. , Jereb John , Kent Charlotte K. , Lennox Jeffrey L. , Louie Janice K. , Lynfield Ruth , Peters Philip J. , Pinckney Lauretta , Spradling Philip , Voetsch Andrew C. , Fiore Anthony
Published: October 2009

Among vulnerable populations during an influenza pandemic are persons with or at risk for HIV infection, tuberculosis, or chronic viral hepatitis. HIV-infected persons have higher rates of hospitalization, prolonged illness, and increased mortality from influenza compared with the general population. Persons with tuberculosis and chronic viral hepatitis may also be at increased risk of morbidity and mortality from influenza because of altered immunity and chronic illness. These populations also face social and structural barriers that will be exacerbated by a pandemic. Existing infrastructure should be expanded and pandemic planning should include preparations to reduce the risks for these populations.
Protection of Racial/Ethnic Minority Populations During an Influenza Pandemic
Authors: Hutchins Sonja S. , Fiscella Kevin , Levine Robert S. , Ompad Danielle C. , McDonald Marian
Published: October 2009

Racial/ethnic minority populations experience worse health outcomes than do other groups during and after disasters.

Evidence for a differential impact from pandemic influenza includes both higher rates of underlying health conditions in minority populations, increasing their risk of influenza-related complications, and larger socioeconomic (e.g., access to health care), cultural, educational, and linguistic barriers to adoption of pandemic interventions.

Implementation of pandemic interventions could be optimized by (1) culturally competent preparedness and response that address specific needs of racial/ethnic minority populations, (2) improvements in public health and community health safety net systems, (3) social policies that minimize economic burdens and improve compliance with isolation and quarantine, and (4) relevant, practical, and culturally and linguistically tailored communications.
Experimental Pretesting of Hand-Washing Interventions in a Natural Setting
Authors: Judah Gaby , Aunger Robert , Schmidt Wolf-Peter , Michie Susan , Granger Stewart , Curtis Val
Published: October 2009

Objectives. We pretested interventions derived from different domains of behavior change theory to determine their effectiveness at increasing hand washing with soap in a natural setting.

Methods. We installed wireless devices in highway service station restrooms to record entry and soap use. Two text-only messages for each of 7 psychological domains were compared for their effect on soap-use rates. We collected data on nearly 200 000 restroom uses.

Results. The knowledge activation domain was most effective for women, with a relative increase in soap use of 9.4% compared with the control condition (P = .001). For men, disgust was the most effective, increasing soap use by 9.8% (P = .001). Disgust was not significantly better than the control condition for women, nor was knowledge activation for men. Messages based on social norms and social status were effective for both genders.

Conclusions. Our data show that unobtrusive observation of behavior in a natural setting can help identify the most effective interventions for changing behaviors of public health importance. The gender differences we found suggest that public health interventions should target men and women differently.
A Primer on Strategies for Prevention and Control of Seasonal and Pandemic Influenza
Authors: Santibañez Scott , Fiore Anthony E. , Merlin Toby L. , Redd Stephen
Published: October 2009

The United States has made considerable progress in pandemic preparedness. Limited attention, however, has been given to the challenges faced by populations that will be at increased risk of the consequences of the pandemic, including challenges caused by societal, economic, and health-related factors. This supplement to the American Journal of Public Health focuses on the challenges faced by at-risk and vulnerable populations in preparing for and responding to an influenza pandemic.

Here, we provide background information for subsequent articles throughout the supplement. We summarize (1) seasonal influenza epidemiology, transmission, clinical illness, diagnosis, vaccines, and antiviral medications; (2) H5N1 avian influenza; and (3) pandemic influenza vaccines, antiviral medications, and nonpharmaceutical interventions.
The Strongest Prescription of All: A Week in the WOODS
Authors: Swartz Aimee
Published: October 2009

As the sun sets behind the first campfire, children's faces are silhouetted in the darkness. In this moment and the days to follow at Camp Sunrise, it is impossible to tell who is living with HIV/AIDS and who is not. According to Jina Gonzalez, that is precisely the point of camps—like Ohio-based Camp Sunrise—that are devoted to serving children affected by HIV/AIDS.
Pandemic Influenza and Jail Facilities and Populations
Authors: Maruschak Laura M. , Sabol William J. , Potter R. H. , Reid Laurie C. , Cramer Emily W.
Published: October 2009

Persons processed into and through jail facilities in the United States may be particularly vulnerable during an influenza pandemic. Among other concerns, public health and corrections officials need to consider flow issues, the high turnover and transitions between jails and the community, and the decentralized organization of jails. In this article, we examine some of the unique challenges jail facilities may face during an influenza pandemic and discuss issues that should be addressed to reduce the spread of illness and lessen the impact of an influenza pandemic on the jail population and their surrounding communities.
Comment on Edlin and Jaffee: Back to Basics
Authors: Miller Stephen M
Published: October 2009

Stephen M. Miller uses money multiplier models to calculate the impact Edlin and Jaffee's proposal to sharply reduce excess banking reserves would have on the total supply of credit.
Comment on Edlin and Phelps: A Better Employer Wage Subsidy
Authors: Bartik Timothy J.
Published: October 2009

According to Tim Bartik of the Upjohn Institute, a revival of the New Jobs Tax Credit would be a more cost-effective and politically feasible method of stimulating job creation, compared to the broader employer tax credits advocated by Edlin and Phelps.
Coadministration of Adenoviral Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Angiopoietin-1 Enhances Vascularization and Reduces Ventricular Remodeling in the Infarcted Myocardium of Type 1 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Samuel Samson Mathews , Akita Yuzo , Paul Debayon , Thirunavukkarasu Mahesh , Zhan Lijun , Sudhakaran Perumana R. , Li Chuanfu , Maulik Nilanjana
Published: October 2009

OBJECTIVE

Hyperglycemia impairs angiogenesis in response to ischemia, leading to ventricular remodeling. Although the effects of overexpressing angiogenic growth factors have been studied in inducing angiogenesis, the formation of functional vessels remains a challenge. The present study evaluates the reversal of diabetes-mediated impairment of angiogenesis in the infarcted diabetic rat myocardium by proangiogenic gene therapy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Ad.VEGF and Ad.Ang1 were intramyocardially administered in combination immediately after myocardial infarction to nondiabetic and diabetic rats. Ad.LacZ was similarly administered to the respective control groups. The hearts were excised for molecular and immunohistochemical analysis at predetermined time points. The myocardial function was measured by echocardiography 30 days after the intervention.

RESULTS

We observed reduced fibrosis and increased capillary/arteriolar density along with reduced ventricular remodeling, as assessed by echocardiography in the treated diabetic animals compared with the nontreated diabetic controls. We also observed increased phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinase–activated protein kinase-2, 2 days after the treatment and increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Flk-1, angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1), Tie-2, and survivin, 4 days after treatment in the diabetic animals. Gel shift analysis revealed that the combination gene therapy stimulated the DNA binding activity of nuclear factor-κB in the diabetic animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Our preclinical data demonstrate the efficacy of coadministration of adenoviral VEGF and Ang-1 in increasing angiogenesis and reducing ventricular remodeling in the infarcted diabetic myocardium. These unique results call for the initiation of a clinical trial to assess the efficacy of this therapeutic strategy in the treatment of diabetes-related human heart failure.
Experimental Endotoxemia Induces Adipose Inflammation and Insulin Resistance in Humans
Authors: Mehta Nehal N. , McGillicuddy Fiona C. , Anderson Paul D. , Hinkle Christine C. , Shah Rachana , Pruscino Leticia , Tabita-Martinez Jennifer , Sellers Kim F. , Rickels Michael R. , Reilly Muredach P.
Published: October 2009

OBJECTIVE

An emerging model of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes is of adipose dysfunction with leukocyte recruitment into adipose leading to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance (IR). This study sought to explore potential mechanisms of inflammatory-induced IR in humans with a focus on adipose tissue.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a 60-h endotoxemia protocol (3 ng/kg intravenous bolus) in healthy adults (n = 20, 50% male, 80% Caucasian, aged 27.3 ± 4.8 years). Before and after endotoxin, whole-blood sampling, subcutaneous adipose biopsies, and frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance (FSIGT) testing were performed. The primary outcome was the FSIGT insulin sensitivity index (Si). Secondary measures included inflammatory and metabolic markers and whole-blood and adipose mRNA and protein expression.

RESULTS

Endotoxemia induced systemic IR as demonstrated by a 35% decrease in Si (3.17 ± 1.66 to 2.06 ± 0.73 × 10−4 [μU · ml−1 · min−1], P < 0.005), while there was no effect on pancreatic β-cell function. In adipose, endotoxemia suppressed insulin receptor substrate-1 and markedly induced suppressor of cytokine signaling proteins (1 and 3) coincident with local activation of innate (interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor) and adaptive (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and CXCL10 chemokines) inflammation. These changes are known to attenuate insulin receptor signaling in model systems.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate, for the first time in humans, that acute inflammation induces systemic IR following modulation of specific adipose inflammatory and insulin signaling pathways. It also provides a rationale for focused mechanistic studies and a model for human proof-of-concept trials of novel therapeutics targeting adipose inflammation in IR and related consequences in humans.
Tetracycline Treatment Retards the Onset and Slows the Progression of Diabetes in Human Amylin/Islet Amyloid Polypeptide Transgenic Mice
Authors: Aitken Jacqueline F. , Loomes Kerry M. , Scott David W. , Reddy Shivanand , Phillips Anthony R.J. , Prijic Gordana , Fernando Chathurini , Zhang Shaoping , Broadhurst Ric , L'Huillier Phil , Cooper Garth J.S.
Published: October 2009

OBJECTIVE

Aggregation of human amylin/islet amyloid polypeptide (hA/hIAPP) into small soluble β-sheet–containing oligomers is linked to islet β-cell degeneration and the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Here, we used tetracycline, which modifies hA/hIAPP oligomerization, to probe mechanisms whereby hA/hIAPP causes diabetes in hemizygous hA/hIAPP-transgenic mice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We chronically treated hemizygous hA/hIAPP transgenic mice with oral tetracycline to determine its effects on rates of diabetes initiation, progression, and survival.

RESULTS

Homozygous mice developed severe spontaneous diabetes due to islet β-cell loss. Hemizygous transgenic animals also developed spontaneous diabetes, although severity was less and progression rates slower. Pathogenesis was characterized by initial islet β-cell dysfunction followed by progressive β-cell loss. Islet amyloid was absent from hemizygous animals with early-onset diabetes and correlated positively with longevity. Some long-lived nondiabetic hemizygous animals also had large islet-amyloid areas, showing that amyloid itself was not intrinsically cytotoxic. Administration of tetracycline dose-dependently ameliorated hyperglycemia and polydipsia, delayed rates of diabetes initiation and progression, and increased longevity compared with water-treated controls.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report to show that treating hA/hIAPP transgenic mice with a modifier of hA/hIAPP misfolding can ameliorate their diabetic phenotype. Fibrillar amyloid was neither necessary nor sufficient to cause diabetes and indeed was positively correlated with longevity therein, whereas early- to mid-stage diabetes was associated with islet β-cell dysfunction followed by β-cell loss. Interventions capable of suppressing misfolding in soluble hA/hIAPP oligomers rather than mature fibrils may have potential for treating or preventing type 2 diabetes.
Polygenic Risk Variants for Type 2 Diabetes Susceptibility Modify Age at Diagnosis in Monogenic HNF1A Diabetes
Authors: Lango Allen Hana , Johansson Stefan , Ellard Sian , Shields Beverley , Hertel Jens K. , Ræder Helge , Colclough Kevin , Molven Anders , Frayling Timothy M. , Njølstad Pål R. , Hattersley Andrew T. , Weedon Michael N.
Published: October 2009

OBJECTIVE

Mutations in the HNF1A gene are the most common cause of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY). There is a substantial variation in the age at diabetes diagnosis, even within families where diabetes is caused by the same mutation. We investigated the hypothesis that common polygenic variants that predispose to type 2 diabetes might account for the difference in age at diagnosis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Fifteen robustly associated type 2 diabetes variants were successfully genotyped in 410 individuals from 203 HNF1A-MODY families, from two study centers in the U.K. and Norway. We assessed their effect on the age at diagnosis both individually and in a combined genetic score by summing the number of type 2 diabetes risk alleles carried by each patient.

RESULTS

We confirmed the effects of environmental and genetic factors known to modify the age at HNF1A-MODY diagnosis, namely intrauterine hyperglycemia (−5.1 years if present, P = 1.6 × 10−10) and HNF1A mutation position (−5.2 years if at least two isoforms affected, P = 1.8 × 10−2). Additionally, our data showed strong effects of sex (females diagnosed 3.0 years earlier, P = 6.0 × 10−4) and age at study (0.3 years later diagnosis per year increase in age, P = 4.7 × 10−38). There were no strong individual single nucleotide polymorphism effects; however, in the combined genetic score model, each additional risk allele was associated with 0.35 years earlier diabetes diagnosis (P = 5.1 × 10−3).

CONCLUSIONS

We show that type 2 diabetes risk variants of modest effect sizes reduce the age at diagnosis in HNF1A-MODY. This is one of the first studies to demonstrate that clinical characteristics of a monogenic disease can be modified by common polygenic variants.
Evaluation of endotoxin activity in blood measured via neutrophil chemiluminescence in healthy horses and horses with colic
Authors: Koenig Judith B. , Hart James , Harris David M. , Cruz Antonio M. , Bienzle Dorothee
Published: October 2009

Objective—To evaluate the performance of a chemiluminescent endotoxin activity assay in horses with colic and healthy horses.

Animals—20 horses with colic and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS group), 8 horses with colic with no SIRS (NSIRS group), and 20 healthy horses.

Procedures—Venous blood was collected into EDTA blood collection tubes after completion of a physical examination, and a chemiluminescent endotoxin activity assay was performed within 60 minutes of collection. Medical or surgical interventions and outcome were recorded for each horse.

Results—Mean ± SE endotoxin activity was 0.16 ± 0.05 for healthy horses, 0.18 ± 0.07 for the NSIRS group, and 0.53 ± 0.05 for the SIRS group and was significantly different among the groups. Mean endotoxin activity was significantly higher in the SIRS group than in the NSIRS group and the healthy group. No significant difference between the healthy and NSIRS groups was present. The higher the measured endotoxin activity, the more likely it was for horses to be euthanized.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The chemiluminescent endotoxin assay was easy to use, required a short time to perform, could be completed at the patient's side, and with some modifications, may be a useful component in the clinical assessment and prognostication of horses with colic.
Antinociceptive effects of epidural administration of hydromorphone in conscious cats
Authors: Ambros Barbara , Steagall Paulo V. M. , Mantovani Fernanda , Gilbert Peter , Duke-Novakovski Tanya
Published: October 2009

Objective—To evaluate the antinociceptive effects of epidurally administered hydromorphone in conscious, healthy cats.

Animals—7 healthy adult cats.

Procedures—An epidural catheter was implanted in each cat. Thermal threshold (TT) was measured by increasing the temperature of a probe placed on the thorax and monitoring the cat's response. Mechanical threshold (MT) was measured by manually inflating a modified blood-pressure bladder affixed to a thoracic limb and monitoring the response. After the baseline TT and MT values were determined, hydromorphone (0.05 mg/kg) or an equal volume of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution was epidurally injected. The TT and MT were again measured at 15, 30, 45, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300, 360, and 480 minutes after injection.

Results—TT and MT did not change significantly from baseline values at any point after saline solution was administered. The MT and TT values were significantly higher than the baseline value at 15 minutes and at 120 and 180 minutes after hydromorphone administration, respectively. The MT and TT values after hydromorphone administration were also significantly different from those obtained at 30 minutes and at 15 minutes and 120 to 300 minutes, respectively, after administration of saline solution. No significant changes in skin temperature were detected after either treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Epidural administration of hydromorphone at a dosage of 0.05 mg/kg yielded thermal and some mechanical antinociceptive effects in cats, and no hyperthermia was detected. Additional studies of the antinociceptive effectiveness and duration of epidurally administered hydromorphone in clinical situations are required.
Evaluation of liposome-encapsulated butorphanol tartrate for alleviation of experimentally induced arthritic pain in green-cheeked conures (Pyrrhura molinae)
Authors: Paul-Murphy Joanne R. , Krugner-Higby Lisa A. , Tourdot Renee L. , Sladky Kurt K. , Klauer Julia M. , Keuler Nicholas S. , Brown Carolyn S. , Heath Timothy D.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To evaluate injection of microcrystalline sodium urate (MSU) for inducing articular pain in green-cheeked conures (Pyrrhura molinae) and the analgesic efficacy of liposome-encapsulated butorphanol tartrate (LEBT) by use of weight load data, behavioral scores, and fecal corticosterone concentration.

Animals—8 conures.

Procedures—In a crossover study, conures were randomly assigned to receive LEBT (15 mg/kg) or liposomal vehicle subsequent to experimental induction of arthritis or sham injection. The MSU was injected into 1 tibiotarsal-tarsometatarsal (intertarsal) joint to induce arthritis (time 0). Weight-bearing load and behavioral scores were determined at 0, 2, 6, 26, and 30 hours.

Results—MSU injection into 1 intertarsal joint caused a temporary decrease in weight bearing on the affected limb. Treatment of arthritic conures with LEBT resulted in significantly more weight bearing on the arthritic limb than treatment with vehicle. Administration of vehicle to arthritic conures caused a decrease in activity and feeding behaviors during the induction phase of arthritis, but as the arthritis resolved, there was a significant increase in voluntary activity at 30 hours and feeding behaviors at 26 and 30 hours, compared with results for LEBT treatment of arthritic birds. Treatment with LEBT or vehicle in conures without arthritis resulted in similar measurements for weight bearing and voluntary and motivated behaviors.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Experimental induction of arthritis in conures was a good method for evaluating tonic pain. Weight-bearing load was the most sensitive measure of pain associated with induced arthritis. Pain associated with MSU-induced arthritis was alleviated by administration of LEBT.
Hoof accelerations and ground reaction forces of Thoroughbred racehorses measured on dirt, synthetic, and turf track surfaces
Authors: Setterbo Jacob J. , Garcia Tanya C. , Campbell Ian P. , Reese Jennifer L. , Morgan Jessica M. , Kim Sun Y. , Hubbard Mont , Stover Susan M.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To compare hoof acceleration and ground reaction force (GRF) data among dirt, synthetic, and turf surfaces in Thoroughbred racehorses.

Animals—3 healthy Thoroughbred racehorses.

Procedures—Forelimb hoof accelerations and GRFs were measured with an accelerometer and a dynamometric horseshoe during trot and canter on dirt, synthetic, and turf track surfaces at a racecourse. Maxima, minima, temporal components, and a measure of vibration were extracted from the data. Acceleration and GRF variables were compared statistically among surfaces.

Results—The synthetic surface often had the lowest peak accelerations, mean vibration, and peak GRFs. Peak acceleration during hoof landing was significantly smaller for the synthetic surface (mean ± SE, 28.5g ± 2.9g) than for the turf surface (42.9g ± 3.8g). Hoof vibrations during hoof landing for the synthetic surface were < 70% of those for the dirt and turf surfaces. Peak GRF for the synthetic surface (11.5 ± 0.4 N/kg) was 83% and 71% of those for the dirt (13.8 ± 0.3 N/kg) and turf surfaces (16.1 ± 0.7 N/kg), respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The relatively low hoof accelerations, vibrations, and peak GRFs associated with the synthetic surface evaluated in the present study indicated that synthetic surfaces have potential for injury reduction in Thoroughbred racehorses. However, because of the unique material properties and different nature of individual dirt, synthetic, and turf racetrack surfaces, extending the results of this study to encompass all track surfaces should be done with caution.
High-mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 as a potential inflammatory biomarker of joint injury in Thoroughbreds
Authors: Brown Murray P. , Trumble Troy N. , Merritt Kelly A.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To investigate effects of osteochondral injury on high-mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 (HMGB-1) concentrations in synovial fluid (SF) from Thoroughbreds and to compare these results with radiographic and arthroscopic scores of severity of joint injury.

Animals—40 clinically normal rested Thoroughbreds (group 1) and 45 Thoroughbreds with osteochondral injury as a result of racing.

Procedures—SF was obtained from the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints, metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints, middle carpal joints, and radiocarpal joints. For group 2, radiographic and arthroscopic scores were determined. Concentrations of SF HMGB-1 were determined by use of an ELISA.

Results—SF HMGB-1 concentrations in osteochondral-injured MCP-MTP joints were significantly higher than in normal MCP-MTP joints. Similarly, SF HMGB-1 concentrations in osteochondral-injured carpal joints were significantly higher than in normal carpal joints. Radiographic and arthroscopic scores were not correlated with SF HMGB-1 concentrations. Synovial fluid HMGB-1 concentrations ≥ 11 ng/mL for MCP-MTP joints and ≥ 9 ng/mL for carpal joints discriminated osteochondral-injured joints from normal joints. Horses with HMGB-1 concentrations ≥ 11 ng/mL for MCP-MTP joints were twice as likely to have an osteochondral injury, and horses with HMGB-1 concentrations ≥ 9 ng/mL for carpal joints were 4 times as likely to have an osteochondral injury.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Osteochondral injury was associated with a significant increase in SF HMGB-1 concentrations in MCP-MTP and carpal joints, compared with results for clinically normal Thoroughbreds. Analysis of SF HMGB-1 concentrations may be useful for evaluation of joint injury in horses.
Effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with varied cyclooxygenase-2 selectivity on cyclooxygenase protein and prostanoid concentrations in pyloric and duodenal mucosa of dogs
Authors: Wooten Jenna G. , Blikslager Anthony T. , Marks Steve L. , Law J. Mac , Graeber Elizabeth C. , Lascelles B. Duncan X.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To assess in vivo effects of short-term administration of NSAIDs with varied cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 selectivity on pyloric and duodenal mucosa.

Animals—8 healthy dogs.

Procedures—Each dog received deracoxib (2 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h for 3 days), firocoxib (5 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h for 3 days), meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h for 1 day followed by 0.1 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h for 2 days), or placebo orally for 3 days; there was a 4-week interval between successive treatments. Prior to and on day 3 of drug administration, pyloric and duodenal mucosae were assessed endoscopically and biopsy specimens obtained for histologic examination. Cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 protein expressions were assessed (western blotting) and prostanoid concentrations measured (ELISAs). Data were analyzed by use of an ANOVA.

Results—Drug administration did not significantly affect endoscopic mucosal scores, histologic scores, or COX-1 or -2 protein expression. The COX-1 protein expression was significantly higher in the pylorus than in the duodenum. Total prostaglandin and thromboxane B2 (TXB2) concentrations were significantly greater in pyloric than in duodenal mucosa. Drug administration had no effect on prostaglandin or TXB2 concentrations.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Prostanoid concentrations in gastric and duodenal tissues, and gross and histologic appearances, were not significantly affected by drugs with varied COX-2 selectivity. These findings suggested that, for these experimental conditions, there were no differences among the preferential and selective COX-2 inhibitors with regard to adverse effects on the gastric and duodenal portions of the gastrointestinal tract of dogs.
Effects of diet-induced weight gain on insulin sensitivity and plasma hormone and lipid concentrations in horses
Authors: Carter Rebecca A. , McCutcheon L. Jill , George Lindsey A. , Smith Tracy L. , Frank Nicholas , Geor Raymond J.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To determine the effects of diet-induced weight gain on glucose and insulin dynamics and plasma hormone and lipid concentrations in horses.

Animals—13 adult geldings.

Procedures—Horses were fed 200% of their digestible energy requirements for maintenance for 16 weeks to induce weight gain. Frequently sampled IV glucose tolerance tests were performed before and after weight gain to evaluate glucose and insulin dynamics. Adiposity (assessed via condition scoring, morphometric measurements, and subcutaneous fat depth) and plasma concentrations of insulin, glucose, nonesterified fatty acids, triglycerides, and leptin were measured on a weekly or biweekly basis.

Results—Mean ± SD body weight increased by 20% from 440 ± 44 kg to 526 ± 53 kg, and body condition score (scale, 1 to 9) increased from 6 ± 1to8 ± 1. Plasma glucose, triglyceride, and nonesterified fatty acid concentrations were similar before and after weight gain. Leptin and insulin concentrations increased with weight gain. Mean ± SD insulin sensitivity decreased by 71 ± 28%, accompanied by a 408 ± 201% increase in acute insulin response to glucose, which resulted in similar disposition index before and after weight gain.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Diet-induced weight gain in horses occurred concurrently with decreased insulin sensitivity that was effectively compensated for by an increase in insulin secretory response. Obesity resulted in hyperinsulinemia and hyperleptinemia, compared with baseline values, but no changes in lipid concentrations were apparent. Preventing obesity is a potential strategy to help avoid insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and hyperleptinemia in horses.
Anti-inflammatory effects of intravenously administered lidocaine hydrochloride on ischemia-injured jejunum in horses
Authors: Cook Vanessa L. , Jones Shults Jennifer , McDowell Marsha R. , Campbell Nigel B. , Davis Jennifer L. , Marshall John F. , Blikslager Anthony T.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To investigate effects of lidocaine hydrochloride administered IV on mucosal inflammation in ischemia-injured jejunum of horses treated with flunixin meglumine.

Animals—24 horses.

Procedures—Horses received saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (SS; 1 mL/50 kg, IV [1 dose]), flunixin meglumine (1 mg/kg, IV, q 12 h), lidocaine (bolus [1.3 mg/kg] and constant rate infusion [0.05 mg/kg/min], IV, during and after recovery from surgery), or both flunixin and lidocaine (n = 6/group). During surgery, blood flow was occluded for 2 hours in 2 sections of jejunum in each horse. Uninjured and ischemia-injured jejunal specimens were collected after the ischemic period and after euthanasia 18 hours later for histologic assessment and determination of cyclooxygenase (COX) expression (via western blot procedures). Plasma samples collected prior to (baseline) and 8 hours after the ischemic period were analyzed for prostanoid concentrations.

Results—Immediately after the ischemic period, COX-2 expression in horses treated with lidocaine alone was significantly less than expression in horses treated with SS or flunixin alone. Eighteen hours after the ischemic period, mucosal neutrophil counts in horses treated with flunixin alone were significantly higher than counts in other treatment groups. Compared with baseline plasma concentrations, postischemia prostaglandin E2 metabolite and thromboxane B2 concentrations increased in horses treated with SS and in horses treated with SS or lidocaine alone, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In horses with ischemia-injured jejunum, lidocaine administered IV reduced plasma prostaglandin E2 metabolite concentration and mucosal COX-2 expression. Coadministration of lidocaine with flunixin ameliorated the flunixin-induced increase in mucosal neutrophil counts.
Effects of in vitro exposure to hay dust on expression of interleukin-23, -17, -8, and -1β and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 2 by pulmonary mononuclear cells from horses susceptible to recurrent airway obstruction
Authors: Reyner Claudia L. , Wagner Bettina , Young Jean C. , Ainsworth Dorothy M.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To examine gene expression of selected cytokines in pulmonary mononuclear cells isolated from healthy horses and horses susceptible to recurrent airway obstruction (RAO), and to determine whether interleukin (IL)-17 and IL-23 were associated with pulmonary inflammation.

Animals—6 RAO-susceptible and 5 healthy horses.

Procedures—Bronchoalveolar lavage cells were retrieved from horses that were stabled and fed dusty hay for 24 hours. Lavage cells devoid of neutrophils were incubated for 24 hours with solutions of PBS, hay dust, lipopolysaccharide, or β-glucan. Gene expression of IL-17, IL-23 (p19 and p40 subunits), IL-8, IL-1β, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 2 (CXCL2), and β-actin was measured by use of real-time reverse transcription PCR assays.

Results—The degree of inherent expression of target genes in bronchoalveolar lavage cells treated with PBSS was not different between the 2 groups of horses. Relative to exposure to PBSS, exposure to the hay dust solution increased gene expression of all cytokines more than 2-fold in cells from both groups of horses, but the magnitudes of these increases were not different between the groups. Exposure to lipopolysaccharide solution increased gene expression of IL-8, CXCL2, and IL-1β in cells from RAO-susceptible horses, but this increase was not significantly different from that in cells from control horses. Exposure to β-glucan solution failed to increase gene expression in cells from either horse group, compared with gene expression when cells were exposed to PBSS.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The acute pulmonary neutrophilia characteristic of RAO was not associated with an increase in upregulation of gene expression of chemokines in pulmonary mononuclear cells from disease-susceptible horses.
Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 in canine uveal melanocytic neoplasms
Authors: Paglia Danielle , Dubielzig Richard R. , Kado-Fong Helen K. , Maggs David J.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To determine whether cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is expressed in benign or malignant canine uveal melanocytic neoplasms and whether expression correlates with malignancy.

Sample Population—Tissue sections from 71 globes; 57 with benign (n = 15), malignant (34), or mixed (8) uveal melanocytic neoplasms; 10 with nonneoplastic disease; and 4 with no abnormalities.

Procedures—Bleached sections from all globes and canine kidney were incubated with mouse monoclonal antibody directed against rat COX-2 protein or mouse antibody isotype control. Location, intensity, and percentage of immunolabeled cells were scored.

Results—Expression of COX-2 was detected in all but 5 globes, all of which contained neoplasms. Expression of COX-2 was detected in regions infiltrated by neoplasia in 21 globes; however, definitive labeling of tumor cells was detected in only 2 of those. In the remaining 19 globes, COX-2 expression was detected in areas also labeled in globes without disease and globes with nonneoplastic disease, especially the aqueous outflow tract and ciliary body. However, only globes with uveal malignant melanomas had detectable COX-2 expression in the iris. Expression of COX-2 was detected in the ciliary body of more globes with uveal malignant melanoma (20/34) than in those without disease (1/4), with nonneoplastic disease (4/10), or with melanocytoma (3/15) or mixed neoplasms (3/8).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Canine globes with uveal melanocytic neoplasia appeared to express COX-2 in similar sites and with similar intensity as globes without neoplasia. Differentiation of benign from malignant canine uveal melanocytic neoplasms was not possible.
Evaluation of breath biomarkers and serum haptoglobin concentration for diagnosis of bovine respiratory disease in heifers newly arrived at a feedlot
Authors: Burciaga-Robles Luis O. , Holland Ben P. , Step Douglas L. , Krehbiel Clinton R. , McMillen Gina L. , Richards Chris J. , Sims Lindsay E. , Jeffers Jim D. , Namjou Khosrow , McCann Patrick J.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To evaluate exhaled N2O (eN2O), exhaled CO (eCO), and serum haptoglobin concentrations as diagnostic criteria for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) and determine whether a combination of biomarkers would be useful for predicting health outcomes of heifer calves.

Animals—337 heifer calves newly arrived at a feedlot.

Procedures—Body weights, serum haptoglobin concentrations, and rumen temperatures were determined. Calves (n = 183) were randomly selected for breath sampling. Variables were compared among calves that remained healthy and those requiring treatment.

Results—Body weight at the time of first and second antimicrobial treatments did not differ from that at arrival, whereas body weight at the time of third antimicrobial treatment was lower. Temperature was lower at arrival, compared with that during antimicrobial treatment. Ratio of eN2O:eCO2 was lowest at arrival, intermediate at the first and second antimicrobial treatments, and greatest at the third antimicrobial treatment. Ratio of eCO:eCO2 was greater at times of antimicrobial treatment, compared with arrival. Concentration of serum haptoglobin was greatest at the time of the first antimicrobial treatment, lowest at the times of second and third treatments, and intermediate at arrival. Arrival ratios of eN2O: eCO2 and eCO:eCO2 and concentration of haptoglobin did not differ among heifers subsequently treated 1, 2, or 3 times.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although breath analysis was successfully implemented in a research feedlot, arrival rumen temperature, eN2O, eCO, and haptoglobin concentration were not accurate in predicting occurrence of BRD during a preconditioning program. However, these biomarkers might support the diagnosis of BRD.
Extrapulmonary disorders associated with Rhodococcus equi infection in foals: 150 cases (1987–2007)
Authors: Reuss Sarah M. , Chaffin M. Keith , Cohen Noah D.
Published: October 2009

Objective—To describe frequency, types, and clinical outcomes of extrapulmonary disorders (EPDs) in foals in which Rhodococcus equi infection was diagnosed, and to identify factors determined at the time of admission that differentiated foals that developed EPDs from foals with R equi infection identified only in the lungs.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—150 foals aged 3 weeks to 6 months with a diagnosis of R equi infection.

Procedures—Medical records were reviewed for information on date of admission, signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnostic testing, treatment, duration of hospitalization, invoice, and outcome. For each EPD identified, further information was collected on the identification, location, treatment, and outcome of the lesion.

Results—Of 150 foals with R equi infections, 111 (74%) had at least 1 of 39 EPDs. Survival was significantly higher among foals without EPDs (32/39 [82%]) than among foals with EPDs (48/111 [43%]), but many EPDs were only recognized after death. Risk factors significantly associated with EPDs included referral status, duration of clinical signs prior to admission, leukocytosis, and neutrophilia. Foals with EPDs also had a higher heart rate and BUN concentration than foals without.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Practitioners should recognize that extrapulmonary manifestations of R equi occur with high prevalence affecting diverse organ systems, that multiple systems are generally affected when EPDs occur, and that suspicion of R equi infection should prompt evaluation and monitoring of extrapulmonary sites. Improved recognition of the presence of these disorders will help practitioners to better advise their clients in the treatment and outcome of foals with R equi infections.
The influence of intensive fish nutrition on the quality of cooling waters
Authors: Nędzarek Arkadiusz , Tórz Agnieszka , Stepanowska Katarzyna
Published: October 2009

The influence of intensive fish nutrition on the quality of cooling waters

The aim of the present paper is to present the results of a study on the impact intensive carp (Cyprinus carpio L.), feeding with extruded commercial feed has on the quality of cooling waters. The feed studied had varied fat and carbohydrate contents. The study also revealed the optimal hydrochemical conditions of cooling waters for carp farming. Cage farming caused growing loads of organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus in the water. Experimental extraction of feed from the water revealed that high fat fish feed was more stable in comparison to high carbohydrate fish feed. Intensive carp farming with these two feeds led to considerable fish weight gain in both feed groups, but the weight gain for the carp fed with high fat feed, in comparison with that of carp fed with high carbohydrate fish feed, was significantly greater (p<0.01).
Chemical properties of bottom sediments in throughflow lakes located in Drawieński National Park
Authors: Mielnik Lilla , Piotrowicz Ryszard , Klimaszyk Piotr
Published: October 2009

Chemical properties of bottom sediments in throughflow lakes located in Drawieński National Park

This study presents and discusses the result of research on the chemical composition of bottom sediments of throughflow lakes located in Drawieński National Park. Basic hydrochemical indicators of the studied sediments are discussed: total organic carbon (Corg), total nitrogen (Ntot), and the Corg/Ntot ratio, which shows the rate of organic matter mineralization. The research and the analysis of the results show that the quality of the studied sediments changed with their distribution in the lake basin. The highest Corg and Ntot values were noted in sediments accumulated in the maximum depth of each lake, and at the inflow and outflow from the first lake in the whole cascade of throughflow lakes. Low Corg/Ntot ratios indicate that most of the sedimentary organic matter in the throughflow lakes comes from aquatic organism production, but the small participation of land-plant organic matter delivered to the lakes is also shown.
Water ecosystems affected by human impact within the protected area of the Tatra National Park (Poland)
Authors: Kurzyca Iwona , Choiński Adam , Kaniecki Alfred , Siepak Jerzy
Published: October 2009

Water ecosystems affected by human impact within the protected area of the Tatra National Park (Poland)

The subjects of the study were two high-mountain lakes, Morskie Oko and Czarny Staw pod Rysami, in the Tatra range of the Carpathian Mountains located within the protected area of the Tatra National Park. This paper presents results of the analytical study of the lake water composition and compares this with relevant data from earlier years. The impact of the following factors was distinguished and discussed: atmospheric deposition (dry and wet), migration of pollutants with runoff water supplying both reservoirs, tourism (hiking, climbing), and the influence of mountain hostels. The resistance and sensitivity of the lakes to human impact is described in terms of water quality changes and characteristics of the catchments and the region.