bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective study of palmar/plantar annular ligament injury in 71 horses: 2001–2006
Authors: OWEN K. R. , DYSON S. J. , PARKIN T. D. H. , SINGER E. R. , KRISTOFFERSEN M. , MAIR T. S.
Published: September 2008

Reasons for performing study: Constriction of the digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS) and its contents by the palmar/plantar annular ligament (PAL) is well recognised. However, primary injury of the PAL has not been well documented.

Objectives: To describe the clinical features of PAL injury, determine its prevalence with or without subcutaneous fibrosis and/or concurrent injury within the DFTS, and assess response to treatment.

Methods: Horses were selected for inclusion based upon clinical features consistent with PAL injury and the presence of a thickened PAL (≥2 mm) verified ultrasonographically. A retrospective analysis of case records from 3 clinics was performed. Details of breed, age and use, and results of clinical and ultrasonographic assessments and response to treatment were recorded. Horses were treated conservatively or surgically by desmotomy of the PAL, with or without tenoscopic evaluation of the DFTS. A telephone questionnaire was performed to assess response to treatment.

Results: Seventy‐one horses were included in the study and middle aged or older general purpose riding horses predominated. PAL desmopathy occurred more frequently in hind‐ than in forelimbs. The method of treatment, thickness of the PAL or presence of subcutaneous fibrosis did not significantly affect prognosis; however, <50% of horses were able to return to athletic function. There was a trend for horses with PAL desmopathy alone to have the best outcome. Bilateral thickening of the PAL or concurrent fore‐ and hindlimb injuries had a negative effect on prognosis, as did the simultaneous presence of subcutaneous fibrosis and lesions within the DFTS.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: PAL injury is characterised by a convex contour of the palmar/plantar aspect of the fetlock, associated with thickening of the ligament with or without subcutaneous fibrosis. Bilateral PAL thickening is common in older horses, ponies and cobs; however, bilateral PAL enlargement is often present with only unilateral lameness. Treatment methods used in this study did not appear to influence outcome significantly.
Early changes in biomarkers of skeletal metabolism and their association to the occurrence of osteochondrosis (OC) in the horse
Authors: DONABEDIAN M. , van WEEREN P. R. , PERONA G. , FLEURANCE G. , ROBERT C. , LEGER S. , BERGERO D. , LEPAGE O. , MARTIN‐ROSSET W.
Published: September 2008

Reasons for performing study: Diagnosis of osteochondrosis (OC) is based on clinical signs and radiography, but alternative methods for detection at an early stage would be useful.

Objectives: To determine in the juvenile horse the relationship between serum concentrations of a number of biomarkers that reflect changes in cartilage and bone turnover and age, feeding level, growth, and the occurrence of OC.

Method: Foals were assigned to a high (n = 20) or moderate (n = 19) feeding level group from birth to age one year. Bodyweight, withers height and cannon width were measured. Osteoarticular status was assessed radiographically at 5.5 and 11 months in all foals, and by necropsy at 12 months for 8 foals/group. Serum biomarkers of bone (osteocalcin, CTX‐1) and cartilage (CPII, C2C) metabolism were assayed at 8 time points between ages 2 and 52 weeks. Ratios between biomarkers of tissue formation and degradation were calculated at each time point.

Results: Consistent age‐related patterns in biomarker serum concentrates were found, indicating a markedly higher metabolism before age 20 weeks but concentrations were not affected by feeding level. Bodyweight was correlated negatively to C2C and CTX‐1, and withers height was positively correlated to osteocalcin and the osteocalcin/CTX‐1 and CPII/C2C ratios. Osteocalcin concentration at 2 weeks and CPII/C2C ratio at 20 weeks had strong positive correlations to OC, as diagnosed radiographically at 5.5 months. Osteocalcin had a strong correlation with radiographically detected OC at 11 months but at that time there was no significant relationship between CPII/C2C ratio and OC.

Conclusions: Occurrence of OC lesions is significantly associated with anabolic changes in bone metabolism during the first weekspost partum, given the strong relation with osteocalcin.

Potential relevance: Measuring osteocalcin concentrations during the first few weekspost partummay have potential value for the prediction of risk for OC development.
Effects of platelet rich plasma and acellular bone marrow on gene expression patterns and DNA content of equine suspensory ligament explant cultures
Authors: SCHNABEL L. V. , MOHAMMED H. O. , JACOBSON M. S. , FORTIER L. A.
Published: September 2008

Reasons for performing study: Suspensory ligament (SL) desmitis is a common source of lameness. The results of this study will determine if blood‐derived products stimulate SL matrix synthesis and have potential as regenerative therapies for SL desmitis

Objectives: To determine if various blood‐based biological products including plasma, blood, PRP, platelet poor plasma (PPP) and ABM aspirate stimulates anabolic and/or catabolic pathways in suspensory ligaments (SL).

Methods: The body of the SL was harvested from 6 horses and used to establish explant cultures. Explants were cultured in plasma, blood, PRP, PPP or ABM at concentrations of 10, 50 or 100%. Anabolic responses were assessed by use of quantitative PCR for collagens type I and III, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and decorin. Total DNA and collagen protein content were also measured. Catabolic reactions were measured by quantitative PCR for matrix metalloproteinases 3 and 13 (MMP‐3, MMP‐13).

Results: Acellular bone marrow aspirate at 100% stimulated decorin and COMP mRNA synthesis more than all other treatments at all concentrations. No treatment at any concentration stimulated the catabolic gene MMP‐13; only 50% ABM stimulated MMP‐13 mRNA expression.

Conclusions: Acellular bone marrow is indicated, and might be preferred to plasma, blood or PPP, as a blood‐based biological source for SL tissue regenerative therapy. Long‐term, placebo controlled case studies are indicated to determine if ABM aids in recovery from SL desmitis.

Potential relevance: Bone marrow aspirate is an autogenous, readily available biological source for SL regenerative therapy where the aim is to stimulate matrix synthesis.
Distribution of the neurokinin‐1 receptor in equine intestinal smooth muscle
Authors: SOLINGER N. , SONEA I. M.
Published: September 2008

Reason for performing study: Tachykinins have profound effects on equine intestinal motility, but the distribution of the neurokinin receptors (NKRs) through which they act is unknown. This study reports the distribution of one of these receptors, the neurokinin‐1 receptor (NK1R), in smooth muscle throughout the equine intestinal tract.

Objectives: To quantify the distribution of the NK1R, based upon mRNA expression, in smooth muscle of different regions of the equine intestinal tract.

Methods: Nine regions of the intestinal tract were sampled in 5 mature horses. Total RNA was isolated from smooth muscle and reverse transcribed; NK1R mRNA was then quantified using real‐time PCR.

Results: NK1R mRNA was found at all levels of the sampled intestinal tract. The smooth muscle of the proximal small intestine and the ventral colon exhibited the highest level of NK1R mRNA expression in the equine intestinal tract.

Conclusions: Tachykinins probably affect intestinal contractility and propulsion in the proximal small intestine and in the ventral colon.

Potential relevance: Understanding the distribution of the receptors for these peptides allows the design of experiments using tachykinin analogues or antagonists to modulate intestinal motility in disorders such as ileus.
Contractile effects of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) in the equine jejunum circular muscle: Functional and immunohistochemical identification of a 5‐HT1A‐like receptor
Authors: DELESALLE C. , VAN ACKER N. , CLAES P. , DEPREZ P. , DE SMET I. , DEWULF J. , LEFEBVRE R. A.
Published: September 2008

Reasons for performing study: Prokinetic drugs used to treat gastrointestinal ileus in man have equivocal results in horses. In man, prokinetic drugs have 5‐hydroxytryptamine4(5‐HT4) receptors as their target, but little is known about the 5‐HT‐receptor subtypes in the equine small intestine.

Objective: Functional and immunohistochemical identification of the serotonin receptor subtype(s) responsible for the 5‐HT induced contractile response in the equine circular jejunum.

Methods: Isometric organ‐bath recordings were carried out to assess spontaneous and drug‐evoked contractile activity of equine circular jejunum. Histological investigations by immunofluorescence analyses were performed to check for presence and localisation of this functionally identified 5‐HT receptor subtype.

Results: Tonic contractions were induced by 5‐HT in horse jejunal circular muscle. Tetrodotoxin, atropine and NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine did not modify this response. A set of 5‐HT receptor subtype selective antagonists excluded interaction with 5‐HT1B, 1D, 2A, 3, 4and7receptors. The selective 5‐HT1Areceptor antagonists WAY 100635 and NAN 190 caused a clear rightward shift of the concentration‐response curve to 5‐HT. The contractile effect of 5‐CT, that can interact with 5‐HT1A, 1B, 1D, 5and7receptors was also antagonised by WAY 100635, identifying the targeted 5‐HT receptor as a 5‐HT1A‐like receptor. Immunohistology performed with rabbit polyclonal anti‐5‐HT1Areceptor antibodies confirmed the presence of muscular 5‐HT1Areceptors in themuscularis mucosae, and both longitudinal and circular smooth muscle layers of the equine jejunum.

Conclusions: Contractile responses in equine jejunal circular smooth muscle induced by 5‐HT involves 5‐HT1A‐like receptors.

Potential relevance: The lack of evidence for presence of 5‐HT4receptors in the equine small intestine questions the use of human prokinetic drugs acting at 5‐HT4receptors in horses with small intestinal ileus.
Phenotypic diagnosis of dwarfism in six Friesian horses
Authors: BACK W. , van der LUGT J. J. , van dar NIKKELS P. G. J. , van den BELT A. J. M. , van den KOLK J. H. , STOUT T. A. E.
Published: September 2008

An extreme form of abnormal development, dwarfism, is common in man and some animals, but has not been officially reported in horses. Within the Friesian horse breed, congenital dwarfism has been recognised for many years, but no detailed report exists on its phenotype. The most salient feature of the dwarf syndrome is the physeal growth retardation in both limbs and ribs. Affected animals have approximately 25% shorter fore‐ and hindlimbs and approximately 50% reduced bodyweight. Post natal growth is still possible in these animals, albeit at a slower rate: the head and back grow faster than the limbs and ribs leading to the characteristic disproportional growth disturbance. Thus, mature dwarfs exhibit a normal, but a relatively larger head conformation, a broader chest with narrowing at the costochondral junction, a disproportionally long back, abnormally short limbs, hyperextension of the fetlocks and narrow long‐toed hooves. Furthermore, a dysplastic metaphysis of the distal metacarpus and metatarsus is radiographically evident. Microscopic analysis of the growth plates at the costochondral junction shows an irregular transition from cartilage to bone, and thickening and disturbed formation of chondrocyte columns, which is similar to findings in osteochondrodysplasia.
Evaluation of common vaginal tunic ligation during field castration in draught colts
Authors: CARMALT J. L. , SHOEMAKER Dr.R. W. , WILSON D. G.
Published: September 2008

The objective of this study was to determine if ligation of the common vaginal tunic could prevent or reduce the incidence of omental herniation and eventration in draught colts undergoing routine field castration. It was found that common vaginal tunic ligation, while not completely preventing omental herniation and evisceration, significantly reduced the incidence of these complications and should be considered in those males deemed at increased risk of significant post castration complications.
The pathology of bronchointerstitial pneumonia in young foals associated with the first outbreak of equine influenza in Australia
Authors: PATTERSON‐KANE J. C. , CARRICK J. B. , AXON J. E. , WILKIE I. , BEGG A. P.
Published: September 2008

Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe post mortem lesions in EIV‐infected foals.

Methods: Post mortem examinations were conducted on 11 young foals (age 2–12 days) submitted to the Scone Veterinary Hospital, New South Wales, Australia over a 2‐month period in 2007. The foals had presented with or developed fatal pneumonia, and were known or suspected to be EIV‐positive. Equine influenza virus nucleic acid was detected in tissue specimens using an influenza A group reactive real‐time reverse transcriptase PCR assay.

Results: Grossly there was diffuse or extensive pulmonary consolidation. Histological changes included: bronchiolar and alveolar necrosis; neutrophilic infiltration; hyaline membrane formation; and hyperplasia and squamous metaplasia of airway epithelium. Tissues for 10 foals were EIV‐positive, with a positive nasal swab from the remaining animal.

Conclusions: This is the first detailed pathological description of bronchointerstitial pneumonia associated with EIV infection in young foals. It is also the first series of such cases in which a causative agent has consistently been detected.

Potential relevance: Given the findings in this outbreak, and a previous outbreak in the UK in 1965 involving a similarly naive population, veterinary clinicians and pathologists should be aware that EIV can cause fatal bronchointerstitial pneumonia in young foals that do not have maternal immunity. The lesions did not differ from those previously reported in foals of various ages with bronchointerstitial pneumonia of other or undefined causes, indicating that this is most likely to be a stereotypical response to a variety of insults. Therefore, tissue specimens should be obtained from cases of pneumonia in young foals for virological and bacteriological testing.

Reasons for performing study: The first outbreak of equine influenza virus (EIV) infection was confirmed in Australia in 2007. Some EIV‐positive young foals died with broncho‐interstitial pneumonia, a rare disease process in this age group that is often postulated to be caused by viral infection.
Evaluation of dimethyl sulphoxide effects on initial response to endotoxin in the horse
Authors: KELMER G. , DOHERTY T. J. , ELLIOTT S. , SAXTON A. , FRY M. M. , ANDREWS F. M.
Published: September 2008

Reasons for performing study: Endotoxaemia is one of the most severe and ubiquitous disease processes in horses. Although dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) is used clinically in horses, there is no study indicating its efficacy in endotoxaemic horses.

Hypothesis: DMSO ameliorates the clinical response to i.v. lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration.

Methods: Eighteen horses were assigned randomly to one of 4 groups: Normosol‐LPS (0.2 μg/kg bwt, i.v.); DMSO (1 g/kg bwt, i.v.)‐saline; high‐dose DMSO (1 g/kg bwt, i.v.)‐LPS; low‐dose DMSO (20 mg/kg bwt, i.v.)‐LPS. Horses participating in the DMSO‐saline group were later assigned randomly to one of the LPS groups. Data for physical parameters, white blood cell counts, plasma TNF‐α, and blood lactate and glucose concentrations were examined for the effect of treatment using a repeated‐measures mixed‐model ANOVA. A value of P<0.05 was considered significant.

Results: Endotoxaemia occurred in all horses receiving LPS, as indicated by the clinical score, physical parameters, haemoconcentration and leucopenia. High‐dose DMSO ameliorated the effect of LPS on fever. DMSO, at either dose, but did not have a significant effect on LPS‐induced changes in all other evaluated parameters.

Conclusions: In this study, DMSO had minimal effects on clinical signs of induced endotoxaemia in horses. The effects were manifested by amelioration of LPS‐induced fever.

Potential relevance: DMSO does not appear to have a significant protective effect against induced endotoxaemia; however, since some protective effect appears to exist further studies are needed in order to determine the role of DMSO in the treatment of endotoxaemia.
Bradykinin stimulates prostaglandin E2production and cyclooxygenase activity in equine nonglandular and glandular gastric mucosain vitro
Authors: MORRISSEY N. K. , BELLENGER C. R. , BAIRD A. W.
Published: September 2008

Reasons for performing study: There are few data available regarding regulation of prostaglandin (PG) generation by equine gastric mucosae and the role of the cyclooxygenase (COX) isoforms in their production.

Objectives: To: 1) characterise and quantify PGE2outputin vitro;2) examine the sensitivity of PGE2production to exogenous bradykinin (BK) exposure; 3) determine the contribution of the COX‐1 and COX‐2 pathways to basal and BK‐stimulated PGE2production; and 4) measure if BK influences electrogenic ion transport in equine gastric mucosaein vitro.

Methods: Full thickness gastric sheets were obtained from horses atpost mortem, stripped of muscle layers and mounted in Ussing chambers. Tissues were exposed to bradykinin (BK, 0.1 μmol/l) either alone, or following pretreatment with a selective COX‐2 inhibitor (NS‐398, 1 μmol/l) or a nonselective COX inhibitor (piroxicam, 1 μmol/l), or were untreated.

Results: BK administration increased PGE2output from the basolateral but not the apical faces of both tissue types. Piroxicam, but not NS‐398, reduced basolateral PGE2release below control levels in both tissue types. Both piroxicam and NS‐398 pretreatment inhibited BK‐stimulated PGE2release. In separate experiments, BK was without effect upon electrophysiological parameters of tissues mounted in Ussing chambers.

Conclusions: PGE2is produced by the nonglandular and glandular equine gastric mucosaein vitro.Significantly more PGE2is released basolaterally than apically. BK stimulated the production of PGE2from the basolateral side of both tissue types. These findings suggest that COX‐1 is a significant pathway for basal PGE2production from the basolateral faces of both nonglandular and glandular equine gastric mucosaein vitro.

Potential relevance: The identification of the cells responsible for basolateral PGE2release, via both COX‐1 and COX‐2 pathways, under basal and BK‐stimulated conditions requires further study.
Attenuation of ischaemic injury in the equine jejunum by administration of systemic lidocaine
Authors: COOK V. L. , SHULTS J. JONES , McDOWELL M. , CAMPBELL N. B. , DAVIS J. L. , BLIKSLAGER A. T.
Published: September 2008

Reasons for performing study: Absorption of endotoxin across ischaemic‐injured mucosa is a major cause of mortality after colic surgery. Recent studies have shown that flunixin meglumine retards mucosal repair. Systemic lidocaine has been used to treat post operative ileus, but it also has novel anti‐inflammatory effects that could improve mucosal recovery after ischaemic injury.

Hypothesis: Systemic lidocaine ameliorates the deleterious negative effects of flunixin meglumine on recovery of mucosal barrier function.

Methods: Horses were treated i.v. immediately before anaesthesia with either 0.9% saline 1 ml/50 kg bwt, flunixin meglumine 1 mg/kg bwt every 12 h or lidocaine 1.3 mg/kg bwt loading dose followed by 0.05 mg/kg bwt/min constant rate infusion, or both flunixin meglumine and lidocaine, with 6 horses allocated randomly to each group. Two sections of jejunum were subjected to 2 h of ischaemia by temporary occlusion of the local blood supply, via a midline celiotomy. Horses were monitored with a behavioural pain score and were subjected to euthanasia 18 h after reversal of ischaemia. Ischaemic‐injured and control jejunum was mounted in Ussing chambers for measurement of transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and permeability to lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Results: In ischaemic‐injured jejunum TER was significantly higher in horses treated with saline, lidocaine or lidocaine and flunixin meglumine combined, compared to horses treated with flunixin meglumine. In ischaemic‐injured jejunum LPS permeability was significantly increased in horses treated with flunixin meglumine alone. Behavioural pain scores did not increase significantly after surgery in horses treated with flunixin meglumine.

Conclusions: Treatment with systemic lidocaine ameliorated the inhibitory effects of flunixin meglumine on recovery of the mucosal barrier from ischaemic injury, when the 2 treatments were combined. The mechanism of lidocaine in improving mucosal repair has not yet been elucidated.

Potential relevance: Recovery of ischaemic‐injured jejunum in post operative colic cases may be improved when treatment with flunixin meglumine is combined with lidocaine.
Detection of calprotectin and its correlation to the accumulation of neutrophils within equine large colon during ischaemia and reperfusion
Authors: GROSCHEt A. , MORTON A. J. , POLYAK M. M. R. , MATYJASZEK S. , FREEMAN D. E.
Published: September 2008

Reason for performing study: The cytosolic protein complex, calprotectin, is abundant in neutrophils and could be used to improve the ability to localise and assess neutrophil infiltration in the equine intestine during ischaemia and reperfusion (I/R), but further study is required.

Objectives: To assess the number of calprotectin‐containing cells by immunohistochemistry in correlation with direct counting and scoring of neutrophils in the equine colon during I/R.

Methods: One and 2 h ischaemia of the left dorsal colon were induced, followed by 30 min reperfusion under general anaesthesia or by 18 h reperfusion after anaesthetic recovery. Biopsies were processed for light microscopy and stained with H&E for detection of neutrophils. To identify calprotectin‐containing cells, immunohistochemistry was performed on formalin‐fixed tissues with the murine MAC 387 antibody and a biotin‐free peroxidase staining procedure. The number of neutrophils within submucosal venules and the colonic mucosa were calculated and compared with the number of calprotectin‐positive cells.

Results: The number of calprotectin‐positive cells within submucosal venules and within the colonic mucosa correlated significantly with the accumulation of neutrophils within the corresponding tissue segments. Within the submucosal venules, both calprotectin‐positive cells and H&E‐stained neutrophils increased with duration of ischaemia and peaked after 30 min of reperfusion. After 18 h reperfusion the number of these cells declined within the vessels. After 2 h ischaemia, neutrophils started to migrate into the mucosa towards the epithelium, with a significant increase over time during reperfusion, and peak infiltration after 18 h reperfusion.

Conclusions: Neutrophil infiltration into the colon after I/R is a time‐dependent process, involving migration through the submucosa towards the epithelium.

Potential relevance: Immunohistochemical staining for calprotectin can be used to demonstrate the pattern of neutrophil accumulation and migration following I/R.
Risk factors for epiploic foramen entrapment colic in a UK horse population: A prospective case‐control study
Authors: ARCHER D. C. , PINCHBECK G. L. , FRENCH N. P. , PROUDMAN C. J.
Published: September 2008

Reasons for performing study: Epiploic foramen entrapment (EFE) is a common cause of small intestinal strangulation in the horse and its epidemiology requires further investigation.

Objectives: To identify horse‐ and management‐level risk factors for EFE and to explore reasons for the apparent seasonality of this condition.

Hypothesis: Horses exhibiting certain behaviours and those exposed to particular management practices that vary seasonally are at increased risk of EFE.

Methods: A prospective unmatched, multicentre case‐control study was conducted over 24 months in the UK. Data on 77 cases and 216 control horses were obtained from 9 collaborating clinics and logistic regression was used to identify associations between horse and management variables and the likelihood of EFE.

Results: In a final multivariable model crib‐biting/ windsucking behaviour was associated with the largest increase in likelihood of EFE. A history of colic in the previous 12 months, increased stabling in the previous 28 days and height of the horse also increased the likelihood of EFE. Horses with access to a mineral/salt lick, those easily frightened and horses not fed at the same time as others were at reduced risk of EFE.

Conclusions: Horses exhibiting certain behaviours, those with a previous history of colic and horses of greater height appear to be at inherently greater risk of EFE. The increase in likelihood of EFE with increased duration of stabling may explain the apparent seasonality of this condition.

Potential relevance: These findings assist identification of horses at high‐risk of EFE and provide information on management strategies that may reduce this risk. If the observed associations are causal, avoiding sudden increases in duration of stabling, not feeding horses in the same group at the same time and providing a mineral/salt lick may reduce the likelihood of EFE. The risk factors identified in this study provide important clues to the aetiology of EFE.
Intra‐articular stabilisation of the equine cricoarytenoid joint
Authors: CHEETHAM J. , WITTE T. H. , RAWLINSON J. J. , SODERHOLM L. V. , MOHAMMED H. O. , DUCHARME N. G.
Published: September 2008

Reasons for performing study: The success of laryngoplasty is limited by abduction loss in the early post operative period.

Objective: To determine the efficacy of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) in stabilising the cricoarytenoid joint (CAJ) and reducing the force on the laryngoplasty suture.

Hypothesis: Injection into the cricoarytenoid joint resists the forces produced by physiological laryngeal air flows and pressures thereby reducing the force experienced by the laryngoplasty suture.

Methods: Ten cadaver larynges were collected at necropsy and PMMA was injected into one CAJ at selected random. Each larynx was subjected to physiological conditions with with constant (static) or cycling (dynamic) flow. The specimens were tested sequentially in each of 4 conditions: 1) bilateral full abduction(Control1); 2) transection of the suture on the side without PMMA; 3) bilateral abduction achieved by replacing the suture(Control2); and 4) cutting the suture on the PMMA side. Tracheal pressure and flow and pressure in the flow chamber were recorded using pressure and flow transducers. The strain experienced by each suture during bilateral abduction(Controls 1and 2) was measured. Statistical comparison of the 4 conditions was performed using a mixed effect model with Tukey'spost hoctest for multiple comparisons. The strain gauge data were analysed by paired comparison of the regression slopes.

Results: In the static and dynamic states, tracheal pressure increased and tracheal flow decreased when the suture on the non‐cement side was cut (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in any outcome measure between PMMA injected into the CAJ and bilaterally abducted specimens(Controls 1and2)for either condition. The rate of increase in strain with increasing translaryngeal pressure was significantly less on the suture with PMMA placed in the CAJ (P = 0.03).

Conclusions: These data provide strong evidence that injecting PMMA into the CAJ resists the collapsing effect of physiological airflows and pressuresin vitroand reduces the force experienced by the laryngoplasty suture during maximal abduction.

Potential relevance: Augmentation of prosthetic laryngoplasty with this technique may reduce arytenoid abduction loss in the early post operative period.
Transvaginal ultrasound‐guided aspiration of unilateral twin gestation in the mare
Authors: Govaere J. L. J. , Hoogewijs M. K. , De Schauwer C. , Dewulf J. , De Kruif A.
Published: September 2008

Embryo reduction of unilateral twin vesicles is normally successful before fixation of the vesicles. After fixation, however, it becomes a challenge, and the later in the gestation period that the reduction is performed, the greater the challenge. One therapy to reduce a twin into a singleton pregnancy is the transvaginal ultrasound‐guided aspiration (TUGA) of one of the vesicles. The results of 35 unilateral twin reductions by TUGA are discussed in this paper and possible negative influences of age, parity and days pregnant are analysed statistically.
Quantitative intradermal terbutaline sweat test in horses
Authors: Mackay R. J.
Published: September 2008

The aim of the current study was to quantify sweating responses to intradermal terbutaline in normal horses. Seven Thoroughbred horses were used. Terbutaline (10‐fold dilutions from 1000‐0.001 mg/l) and a saline control were injected intradermally (0.1 ml/site) and sweat collected for 30 min into absorbent pads taped over each injection site. Tests were performed monthly for 11 successive months and temperature, relative humidity and dewpoint were measured at the time of testing. There was no significant effect (P≤0.05) of environmental variables or time of year on sweat responses at any dose. There was significant effect (P<0.001) of terbutaline concentration on sweat weight, with significant increases at every concentration from 0.1–1000 mg/l. This quantitative intradermal terbutaline sweat test should be a useful aid to the study of equine sweating and anhidrosis.
Effect of track maintenance on mechanical properties of a dirt racetrack: A preliminary study
Authors: PETERSON M. L. , McILWRAITH C. W.
Published: September 2008

When Thoroughbred racehorses experience catastrophic injuries, the track surface is often discussed as a factor. The present study investigated the mechanical properties of the surface and found that significant changes in a track occur during routine maintenance. Questions regarding the relative importance of track variability and hardness require further investigation.
Position of the head is not associated with changes in horse vision
Authors: BARTOŠ L. , BARTOŠOVÁ J. , STAROSTOVÁ L.
Published: September 2008

It has become accepted that the horse cannot see directly in front when the nose is lowered and must therefore rely on the rider. We tested the hypothesis that this conclusion would be correct only if the horse did not adjust the eyeball horizontal axis to changes of the head position. The results of the present study suggest that it is unlikely that horses have limited vision in relation to their head position when driven by the rider, and that the horse maintains the optimal horizontal eyeball position regardless of head position relative to the ground.
Experimental reactivation of equine herpesvirus‐3 following corticosteroid treatment
Authors: BARRANDEGUY M. , VISSANI A. , OLGUIN C. , BECERRA L. , MIÑO S. , PEREDA A. , ORIOL J. , THIRY E.
Published: September 2008

State of latency, well known for several herpesviruses, has been proposed for equine herpesvirus‐3 (EHV‐3) and supported by epidemiological observations. No detailed assessment about reactivation, patterns of excretion and re‐excretion has been formally reported. An experimental reactivation study by corticosteroid treatment in previously naturally infected horses was therefore carried out. Two polo mares with clinical and virologically confirmed history of equine coital exanthema were injected with dexamethasone and prednisolone on 3 successive days. Clinical signs, body temperature and clinical samples for virological and serological studies were obtained daily. Mares did not show any systemic clinical signs or hyperthermia. EHV‐3 shedding, seroconversion and the presence of a small lesion were observed in one of the mares under study 2 weeks after corticosteroid treatment. The results demonstrate that this virus exhibits a latency‐reactivation behaviour similar to that of other alpha herpesviruses. Reactivation of latency may have an important bearing on the appearance of clinical signs in mares and/or stallions during the breeding season without the actual evidence of transfer from mare to stallion or vice versa.
Suspected primary lactose intolerance in neonatal foals
Authors: Roberts V. L. H. , Knottenbelt D. C. , Williams A. , McKane S. A.
Published: September 2008

The intestine of neonatal mammals must be able to secrete lactase enzyme to hydrolyse lactose in its mother's milk. Failure to secrete lactase results in failure to digest lactose. This results in osmotic diarrhoea, weight loss, failure to thrive, lethargy, colic and abdominal distension. Lactose intolerance may occur secondarily to intestinal bacterial infection. Primary lactose intolerance is recognised in human infants. Here we report 2 cases of suspected primary lactose intolerance in foals. The foals responded well to oral administration of exogenous lactase enzyme.
Splenectomy in a foal to control intra‐abdominal haemorrhage caused by splenic rupture
Authors: Muurlink M. A. , Walmsley J. P. , Savage C. J. , Whitton R. C.
Published: September 2008

Intra‐abdominal haemorrhage in horses can be due to rupture of the spleen and may result in severe blood loss. The assessment and resuscitation of a foal that collapsed due to intra‐abdominal haemorrhage is presented. Diagnosis of the source of the blood loss required exploratory laparotomy and confirmed splenic capsular rupture and haemorrhage. Splenectomy using a 17th rib resection approach was used to control the haemorrhage. Complications included acute cardiac muscle damage, which was monitored using echocardiography and troponin I levels. The successful surgical management of the ongoing blood loss in this foal suggests that splenectomy should be considered an option to control severe blood loss due to splenic rupture.
Diagnosis and management ofCandida utilisinfectious arthritis in a Standardbred filly
Authors: Cohen J. M. , Ross M. W. , Busschers E.
Published: September 2008

A 3‐year‐old Standardbred filly was admitted to the hospital for evaluation and management of previously diagnosed infectious arthritis of the right metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ).Candida utiliswas isolated from multiple synovial samples submitted for bacterial culture and susceptibility. Following treatment with systemic and intra‐articular fluconazole and regional limb perfusion with amphotericin B and a second arthroscopic debridement the lameness improved and subsequent cultures were negative for bacterial or fungal growth. Infectious fungal arthritis should be a differential diagnosis for atypical or unresponsive joint infections especially in horses previously treated with a combination of intra‐articular corticosteroids and antibiotics.
Penetrating thoracic injury with associated abdominal visceral involvement in a mare
Authors: van Zyl N. , Rayner S. G.
Published: September 2008

A mare was presented for evaluation of a penetrating thoracic injury. Surgical exploration of the thoracic wound was performed, revealing diaphragmatic perforation and the presence of a foreign body lodged in the right dorsal colon. The foreign body was removed through the thoracic deficit, the colon repaired and the thoracic wound closed utilising alatissimus dorsimuscle flap. It can be concluded that successful management of thoracic wounds with concurrent abdominal viscera involvement is achievable if minimal contamination is evident. In addition reconstruction of large thoracic defects with primary muscle flaps is a viable option in the horse.
Haemolytic anaemia as a complication following colic surgery in a 10‐year‐old Arabian stallion
Authors: Underwood C. , Southwood L. L.
Published: September 2008

Immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia is rare in the horse. This case report discusses the clinical presentation and treatment of this condition in an Arabian stallion following abdominal surgery for large colon volvulus. On Day 10 of hospitalisation the stallion's PCV dropped by 10% whilst his total solids remained stable, consistent with haemolytic anaemia. The stallion was treated with whole blood transfusions and dexamethasone and recovered to be discharged on Day 42. This is an interesting example of immune mediated haemolytic anaemia associated with a complicated gastrointestinal condition. It demonstrates the wide variety of potential aetiologies underlying a haemolytic episode and the necessity for expedient treatment.
Discourses and Strategic Visions: The U.S. Research University as an Institutional Manifestation of Neoliberalism in a Global Era
Authors: Gaffikin Frank , Perry David C.
Published: September 2008

It is argued widely that the academy today is in the process of significant change—in the institutional assumptions of what constitutes the university and the construction of knowledge and in its relations with the city and the world. This article addresses the evolution of the modern university in the context of the discourses of contemporary globalizing institutions. Further, it empirically assesses the organizational priorities of U.S. research universities in light of the application of these discourses to their objectives and practices, finding that they are playing a key role in the formal representation of the institutional direction, goals, and values of American higher education.
On the Vague Meaning of “Gender” in Education Research: The Problem, Its Sources, and Recommendations for Practice
Authors: Glasser Howard M. , Smith John P.
Published: September 2008

Writers for both academic and popular audiences often use the term gender when considering differences between the educational experiences of male and female students, and the distinction often appears to be based on a traditional understanding of the term sex. The authors of this article argue that gender and sex should be distinguished more clearly in education research and that the pattern of unclear, conflated, and even synonymous use of the terms has slowed progress in understanding how gender influences students’ educational experiences. The authors present evidence of conflated use, review the wide diversity in orienting perspectives and definitions of gender, show how current American Psychological Association publication guidelines fail to provide clear guidance on the use of the terms, and make recommendations for improving research practice.
Combining Qualitative and Quantitative Methodologies in Research on Teachers’ Lives, Work, and Effectiveness: From Integration to Synergy
Authors: Day Christopher , Sammons Pam , Gu Qing
Published: September 2008

The authors of this article discuss how a mixed-methods research team designed and conducted a 4-year study (Variations in Teachers’ Work and Lives and Their Effects on Pupils) that tracked 300 teachers in 100 schools in England over a 3-year fieldwork period. The authors discuss processes that led to new knowledge. Although mixed methods are becoming more popular, few published accounts describe in detail how researchers have moved beyond the use and integration of mixed methods to arrive at more synergistic understandings. The advantage of synergistic approaches is their consideration and combination of a greater range of data, resulting in more nuanced, authentic accounts and explanations of complex realities.
Engaging New Audiences: Translating Research Into Popular Media
Authors: Woo Yen Yen Joyceln
Published: September 2008

In this article, the author outlines how she used qualitative research methodologies to translate her research findings into a social-realist narrative film that has engaged multiple audiences. This process raises questions about what translation means when research is represented in the form of an imaginative text and how education researchers imagine their audience when making choices about research representation. The author also considers the perennial questions surrounding arts-based research: Can expressive forms count as research? Must practitioners of arts-based research be experts in their art forms? Should the artistic product stand on its own in traditional social science research venues? The author posits that the current cultural milieu holds unprecedented possibilities for translating education research into varied forms to achieve greater public impact.
Strukturwandel im Bankenwesen und regionalwirtschaftliche Implikationen
Authors: Klagge Britta
Published: September 2008

The influence of the banking system is often neglected when dealing with regional structures and disparities. The banking system, however, does play an important role for regional development. By looking at the functional, organizational and spatial aspects of the ongoing structural changes in the banking sector, the consequences for retail and corporate commercial banking are examined. Special emphasis is put on the interrelationship between locational structures, integration with other subjects and regional processes. Three approaches are applied: organizational-structural, input-orientated and output-orientated. Changes in the banking sector take place both in the structure of the sector as a whole and with regard to the organization and functionality within banks. From a geographical point of view the concentration processes and the restructuring of the sales organization are most relevant. The latter includes the downsizing and reorganization of the branch network and the rapid development of alternative, mostly telecommunicative modes of distribution. Restructuring results in an increasing spatial differentiation, which is based on the "profitability" of regions and client groups. These and other changes within the banks affect the structure and spatial pattern of employment and demand for goods and services. These development are advantageous mainly to national financial centers as opposed to regional financial centers and peripheral areas. Only peripheral regions that are able to attract back-office functions may profit.While the regional effects on the input side of banks are relatively easy to understand this is not the case for the regional effects exercised through the sales of banking services. This is due to the unwillingness of banks to publish sales data differentiated by regions. Nevertheless the distribution of credit as one main outcome of banking activities is especially important for regional development because of its stimulating effect on regional investment and growth rates. The lack of relevant data gives theoretical considerations a greater weight. However, it is possible to isolate several factors that influence the regional pattern of credit distribution. These factors include the size structure of the banking sector and its spatial distribution. With respect to these two factors, empirical findings indicate that from a regional policy point of view, decentralized but integrated banking systems offer the greatest advantage.
Progressive Reforms or Maintaining the Status Quo? An Empirical Evaluation of the Judicial Consideration of Aboriginal Status in Sentencing Decisions
Authors: Welsh Andrew , Ogloff James R.P.
Published: September 2008

Government statistics and empirical research have long documented the fact that Aboriginal people account for a much higher proportion of Canada's inmate population than would be expected by looking at their relative proportion in the general population. In spite of this increasing focus on overrepresentation, there has been little documented change in Aboriginal incarceration rates. Section 718.2(e) was added to the Criminal Code to encourage judicial consideration of alternatives to incarceration, with particular attention to the circumstances of Aboriginal offenders. To evaluate the impact of section 718.2(e), the current study examined 691 randomly sampled sentencing decisions from the Quicklaw database to determine the extent to which Aboriginal status was correlated with judges’ sentencing decisions relative to other legally relevant factors that have traditionally guided sentencing. Hierarchical logistic regression analyses indicated that Aboriginal status did not significantly predict the likelihood of receiving a custodial or non-custodial disposition relative to aggravating and mitigating factors or sentencing objectives cited by judges. Rather, several aggravating and mitigating factors cited by judges, including offence seriousness, prior criminal history, and the plea of the offender were significantly related to sentencing decisions.
Genetic clues about the origin of Aché hunter‐gatherers of Paraguay
Authors: Callegari‐Jacques Sidia M. , Hill Kim , Hurtado A. Magdalena , Rodrigues Luciana T. , Bau Claiton H.D. , Salzano Francisco M.
Published: September 2008

Seventeen genetic studies performed among the until recently hunter‐gatherer Aché were reviewed and the corresponding data integrated to general information about this group, and to statistical tests of hypothesis concerning its origin(s). Two features of the Aché gene pool emerge: (a) the distinctiveness in relation to the general pattern of Amerindian genetic data; and (b) the reduced within population genetic variability. As for the origin of this people, the evidence suggests a general Tupian background with considerable introgression of Jê genetic material, which could be explained by the Tupi warfare habit of absorption instead of extermination of defeated individuals. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Developmental plasticity in fat patterning of Ache children in response to variation in interbirth intervals: A preliminary test of the roles of external environment and maternal reproductive strategies
Authors: Baker Jack , Hurtado Ana Magdalena , Pearson Osbjorn M. , Hill Kim R. , Jones Troy , Frey M. Anderson
Published: September 2008

A firm link between small size at birth and later more centralized fat patterning has been established in previous research. Relationships between shortened interbirth intervals and small size at birth suggest that maternal energetic prioritization may be an important, but unexplored determinant of offspring fat patterning. Potential adaptive advantages to centralized fat storage (Baker et al., 2008: In: Trevathan W, McKenna J, Smith EO, editors. Evolutionary Medicine and Health: New Perspectives. New York: Oxford) suggest that relationships with interbirth intervals may reflect adaptive responses to variation in patterns of maternal reproductive effort. Kuzawa (2005: Am J Hum Biol 17:5–21; 2008: In: Trevathan W, McKenna J, Smith EO, editors. Evolutionary Medicine and Health: New Perspectives. New York: Oxford) has argued that maternal mediation of the energetic quality of the environment is a necessary component of developmental plasticity models invoking predictive adaptive responses (Gluckman and Hanson 2004: Trends Endocrinol Metab 15:183–187). This study tested the general hypothesis that shortened interbirth intervals would predict more centralized fat patterning in offspring. If long‐term maternally mediated signals are important determinants of offspring responses, then we expected to observe a relationship between the average interbirth interval of mothers and offspring adiposity, with no relationship with the preceding interval. Such a finding would suggest that maternal, endogenous resource allocation decisions are related to offspring physiology in a manner consistent with Kuzawa's description. We observed exactly such a relationship among the Ache of Paraguay, suggesting that maternally mediated in utero signals of postnatal environments may be important determinants of later physiology. The implications of these findings are reviewed in light of life history and developmental plasticity theories and ourability to generalize the results to other populations. Recommendations for further empirical research are briefly summarized. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.