bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of exercise and osteochondral injury on synovial fluid and serum concentrations of carboxy-terminal telopeptide fragments of type II collagen in racehorses
Authors: Cleary Orlaith B. , Trumble Troy N. , Merritt Kelly A. , Brown Murray P.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To investigate the effects of exercise and osteochondral injury on concentrations of carboxy-terminal telopeptide fragments of type II collagen (CTX-II) in synovial fluid (SF) and serum of Thoroughbred racehorses and to compare findings with radiographic and arthroscopic scores of joint injury severity.

Animals—78 Thoroughbreds with (n = 38) and without (40) osteochondral injury.

Procedures—Serum and metacarpophalangeal or carpal joint SF samples were collected from noninjured horses before and at the end of 5 to 6 months of race training (pre- and postexercise samples, respectively) and from horses with osteochondral injury (1 joint assessed/horse). Synovial fluid and serum CTX-II concentrations were determined by use of an ELISA. Radiographic and arthroscopic scores of joint injury severity were determined for the injured horses.

Results—The CTX-II concentrations in SF and SF:serum CTX-II ratio were significantly higher for horses with joint injuries, compared with pre- and postexercise findings in noninjured horses. Serum CTX-II concentrations in postexercise and injured-horse samples were significantly lower than values in pre-exercise samples. On the basis of serum and SF CTX-II concentrations and SF:serum CTX-II ratio, 64% to 93% of serum and SF samples were correctly classified into their appropriate group (pre-exercise, postexercise, or injured-joint samples). In horses with joint injuries, arthroscopic scores were positively correlated with radiographic scores, but neither score correlated with SF or serum CTX-II concentration.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that serum and SF CTX-II concentrations and SF:serum CTX-II ratio may be used to detect cartilage degradation in horses with joint injury.
Comparison of bone mineral density in medial coronoid processes of dogs with and without medial coronoid process fragmentation
Authors: Burton Neil J. , Perry Mark J. , Fitzpatrick Noel , Owen Martin R.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To quantify bone mineral density (BMD) in the medial coronoid process (MCP) of dogs with and without fragmented medial coronoid processes (FMCPs) by use of dualenergy x-ray absorptiometry.

Sample Population—50 osteochondral samples from 31 dogs that underwent subtotal coronoid ostectomy for unilateral or bilateral FMCP and 10 control osteochondral samples of the MCP collected from forelimbs of 5 cadaveric Greyhounds.

Procedures—Each sample was mounted in proximodistal and mediolateral orientations for BMD determinations via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and area-of-interest data (0.03-cm2 increments) were obtained. Values of BMD were compared between left and right limb control samples, between control and FMCP samples, and between axial and abaxial regions of the control or FMCP samples.

Results—The BMD in control and FMCP samples in both proximodistal and mediolateral orientations differed significantly. Mean BMD throughout the MCP was decreased in FMCP samples, compared with control sample findings. In both control and FMCP samples, BMD of the abaxial half of the MCP was 50% higher than that of the axial portion.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The similar pattern of BMD in osteochondral samples of the MCP in dogs with and without FMCP indicated that the MCP was eccentrically loaded during weight bearing. Topographic variation in BMD in the MCP, and hence tolerance to compressive loading, suggested that the abaxial portion of the MCP in dogs was more resistant to compressive load than was the axial edge. This difference may predispose the coronoid process to microcrack formation and fragmentation at that juxtaposition.
Association between clinical signs and histopathologic changes in the synovium of the tarsocrural joint of horses with osteochondritis dissecans of the tibia
Authors: Brink Palle , Skydsgaard Mikala , Teige Jon , Tverdal Aage , Dolvik Nils I.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To develop a scoring system for histopathologic changes in the synovium of tarsocrural joints (TCJs) of horses with osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and to test for association between histopathologic changes and joint effusion or lameness.

Animals—93 horses with OCD of the intermediate ridge of the tibia of 1 or both TCJs (134 joints) and 38 control horses without disease of TCJs (38 joints).

Procedures—For OCD-affected horses, pretreatment lameness, TCJ effusion, and results of pelvic limb flexion test were scored. Synovial biopsy specimens were obtained from TCJs of OCD-affected horses during arthroscopy, and similar postmortem tissue specimens were obtained from control horses through a small arthrotomy. Histologic signs of synovitis in 172 biopsy specimens were scored by 2 pathologists (A and B) by use of 2 criteria: synoviocyte proliferation and cellular infiltration.

Results—Analysis of scoring revealed good to very good intraobserver agreement within pathologist A (weighted kappa [WK], 0.76 to 0.81), and moderate to good agreement within pathologist B (WK, 0.56 to 0.63). Interobserver agreement for synoviocyte proliferation (WK, 0.34 to 0.52) and cellular infiltration (WK, 0.38 to 0.48) scores was fair to moderate. Joint effusion and synoviocyte proliferation were significantly associated, as were joint effusion and cellular infiltration. There was no association between histopathologic changes and the other clinical signs evaluated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The scoring system was helpful for evaluating synovial inflammation caused by OCD of the intermediate ridge of the tibia in horses. Histopathologic signs of synovial inflammation were associated with effusion but not with lameness.
Measurement of plasma cardiac troponin I concentration by use of a point-of-care analyzer in clinically normal horses and horses with experimentally induced cardiac disease
Authors: Kraus Marc S. , Jesty Sophy A. , Gelzer Anna R. , Ducharme Norm G. , Mohammed Hussni O. , Mitchell Lisa M. , Soderholm Leo V. , Divers Thomas J.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To compare cardiac troponin I (cTnI) concentrations determined by use of a point-of-care analyzer with values determined by use of a bench-top immunoassay in plasma samples obtained from clinically normal horses with and without experimentally induced cardiac disease, and to establish a reference range for plasma equine cTnI concentration determined by use of the point-of-care analyzer.

Animals—83 clinically normal horses, 6 of which were administered monensin to induce cardiac disease.

Procedures—A blood sample was collected from each of the 83 clinically normal horses to provide plasma for analysis by use of the point-of-care analyzer; some of the same samples were also analyzed by use of the immunoassay. All 83 samples were used to establish an analyzer-specific reference range for plasma cTnI concentration in clinically normal horses. In 6 horses, blood samples were also collected at various time points after administration of a single dose of monensin (1.0 to 1.5 mg/kg) via nasogastric intubation; plasma cTnI concentration in those samples was assessed by use of both methods.

Results—The analyzer-specific reference range for plasma cTnI concentration in clinically normal horses was 0.0 to 0.06 ng/mL. Following monensin treatment in 5 horses, increases in plasma cTnI concentration determined by use of the 2 methods were highly correlated (Pearson correlation, 0.83). Peak analyzer-determined plasma cTnI concentrations in monensin-treated horses ranged from 0.08 to 3.68 ng/mL.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In horses with and without experimentally induced cardiac disease, the point-of-care analyzer and bench-top immunoassay provided similar values of plasma cTnI concentration.
Effects of pretreatment with dexamethasone or levothyroxine sodium on endotoxin-induced alterations in glucose and insulin dynamics in horses
Authors: Tóth Ferenc , Frank Nicholas , Geor Raymond J. , Boston Raymond C.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To investigate the effects of dexamethasone or levothyroxine sodium on endotoxin-induced alterations in glucose and insulin dynamics.

Animals—24 horses.

Procedures—Horses were randomly allocated to 3 treatment groups and received 48 mg of levothyroxine mixed with 200 g of oats, 20 mg of dexamethasone plus oats, or oats alone (control) for 15 days, followed by IV infusion of lipopolysaccharide (20 ng/kg) while individually housed in stalls. Frequently sampled IV glucose tolerance tests were performed prior to pretreatment, after pretreatment, and 20 hours after lipopolysaccharide administration. Area under the curve for plasma glucose and serum insulin concentrations was calculated, and minimal model analyses were performed.

Results—Significant treatment-by-time effects were detected for insulin sensitivity (SI) and area under the curve for glucose and insulin in the 15-day pretreatment period. Insulin sensitivity significantly decreased over time in all treatment groups, with the largest decrease detected in the dexamethasone group. Administration of lipopolysaccharide further decreased mean SI by 71% and 63% in the dexamethasone and control groups, respectively, but did not affect horses in the levothyroxine group. Mean SI was the lowest in the dexamethasone group, but percentage reduction was the same for dexamethasone and control groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Insulin sensitivity decreased during the pretreatment period in all 3 groups, indicating that hospitalization affected glucose and insulin dynamics. Dexamethasone significantly lowered SI, and endotoxemia further exacerbated insulin resistance. In contrast, there was no additional effect of endotoxemia on SI in horses pretreated with levothyroxine, suggesting that this treatment prevented endotoxemia-induced insulin resistance.
Anti-inflammatory effects of intra-articular administration of morphine in horses with experimentally induced synovitis
Authors: Lindegaard Casper , Gleerup Karina B. , Thomsen Maj H. , Martinussen Torben , Jacobsen Stine , Andersen Pia H.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To compare the effects of intra-articular (IA) versus IV administration of morphine on local and systemic inflammatory responses in horses with experimentally induced acute synovitis.

Animals—8 horses.

Procedures—Each horse received the following 2 treatments 4 hours after synovitis was induced: IA administration of morphine (0.05 mg/kg) with IV administration of 1 mL of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution/100 kg, and IA administration of 1 mL of saline solution/100 kg with IV administration of morphine (0.05 mg/kg). Treatments were administered in randomized order with a washout period of 3 weeks between treatments. Before each treatment, aseptic synovitis was induced by injection of lipopolysaccharide into a radiocarpal joint. For the second treatment, the contralateral radiocarpal joint was selected. Joint swelling and skin temperature over the treated joints were recorded. Clinical examinations were performed, and blood WBC count, serum amyloid A (SAA) concentration, serum cortisol concentration, synovial fluid WBC count, synovial fluid total protein (TP) concentration, and synovial fluid SAA concentration were measured before and repeatedly during each of the two 168-hour study periods. Data were analyzed by use of ANOVA with repeated measures.

Results—IA administration of morphine resulted in significantly less joint swelling and lower synovial fluid TP and serum and synovial fluid SAA concentrations, and blood WBC count than did IV administration of morphine.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—IA administration of morphine exerted anti-inflammatory properties in horses with experimentally induced acute synovitis, supporting its use as a part of a balanced analgesic protocol.
Assessment of reproductive tract disease in cats at risk for Tritrichomonas foetus infection
Authors: Gray Sara G. , Hunter Stuart A. , Stone Maria R. , Gookin Jody L.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To determine whether Tritrichomonas foetus infection resides in reproductive tract tissues from cats housed for breeding and for which a high prevalence of colonic T foetus infection has been reported.

Animals—61 purebred cats in 36 catteries undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy or castration and for which reproductive tract tissues, feces, and a reproductive history were obtained.

Procedures—Reproductive tract tissues were examined for T foetus via light microscopy, immunohistochemical analysis, and PCR assay. History of reproductive tract disease was examined to detect statistical associations with identified or reported exposure to colonic T foetus infection.

Results—15 of 61 (25%) cats and 22 of 33 (67%) catteries were identified with active or reported T foetus infection. Light microscopic, immunohistochemical, or molecular evidence of T foetus infection of the reproductive tract was not detected in any cats, including 15 cats with colonic T foetus infection, 29 cats residing in a cattery in which T foetus–infected cats were identified, and 8 cats for which gross or light microscopic evidence of reproductive tract disease was identified. There were no differences in total number of litters, number of litters per breeding, kitten mortality rate, or birth defects between cats or catteries infected with T foetus and those for which T foetus infection was not identified.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—No evidence of reproductive tract colonization by T foetus was detected in this study. Accordingly, it is unlikely that reproductive tract infection with T foetus plays an important role in overall disease transmission.
Potential impact of introduction of foot-and-mouth disease from wild pigs into commercial livestock premises in California
Authors: Pineda-Krch Mario , O'Brien Joshua M. , Thunes Clair , Carpenter Tim E.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To estimate potential spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) if introduced from wild pigs in California and to evaluate efficacies of various control strategies.

Sample Population—Data for California livestock and from hunter surveys on wild pigs in California.

Procedures—A spatial, stochastic simulation model was used to simulate FMD epidemics that might occur if a dairy or beef herd were infected from contact with a wild pig. Index herd location and type were examined, in addition to different statewide movement ban (SWMB) durations, to determine their effect on extent of the epidemic.

Results—Duration, number of infected premises, size of simulated outbreak, number of culled animals, and spatial distribution of infected herds resulting from the simulated outbreaks varied considerably among geographic regions, depending on index case type and location. Outbreaks beginning in the southern region of California were consistently longest, whereas those beginning in the northern region were shortest. The largest outbreaks resulted from index cases located in the southern and valley regions, whereas outbreaks were smallest when originating in the Sonoma or northern regions. For all regions, when the index herd was a dairy herd, size and duration of the outbreak were consistently reduced with implementation of an SWMB ≥ 3 days.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Introduction of FMDV from wild pigs into a dairy or beef herd could result in a large and rapidly spreading outbreak, potentially affecting large numbers of herds. Size and duration of the outbreak might be reduced with an SWMB; however, the impact is highly dependent on the index herd type and location.
Evaluation of the protective effects of all-trans-astaxanthin on canine osteosarcoma cell lines
Authors: Wakshlag Joseph J. , Balkman Cheryl A. , Morgan Stewart K. , McEntee Margaret C.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To determine the effects of the antioxidant astaxanthin on growth of canine osteosarcoma cells with and without concurrent chemotherapeutic or irradiation insult.

Sample Population—Cells from 3 established canine osteosarcoma cell lines (D17, OS 2.4, and HMPOS).

Procedures—Growth-curve kinetics and cell cytotoxic effects were assessed by means of various treatment combinations and a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Western blotting was performed to examine previously identified signaling pathways that astaxanthin reportedly affects. Additionally, cell-cycle kinetic evaluations, soft agar colony-forming assays, and antioxidant assays were performed to better understand the effect of astaxanthin on cell growth and function.

Results—Exposure to astaxanthin alone resulted in a mild to pronounced attenuation of cell proliferation in vitro, depending on the cell line, and did not interfere with the cell-death response to doxorubicin, irradiation, or peroxide-mediated insult. In some instances, astaxanthin acted in an additive fashion to augment cell death. Astaxanthin exposure increased the antioxidant potential of cells, whereas peroxide-mediated cell stress increased the antioxidant potential to the same degree as astaxanthin exposure or greater. No dramatic changes in phosphorylation of protein kinase B or upregulation of connexin 43 were detected.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Findings suggested that astaxanthin administration may be beneficial in treatment of dogs for osteosarcoma. Its actions as an antioxidant did not improve osteosarcoma cell survival during chemotherapeutic or irradiation insults, warranting further research into this natural compound as an adjuvant, antiproliferative treatment for osteosarcoma in dogs.
Evaluation of a behavioral method for objective vision testing and identification of achromatopsia in dogs
Authors: Garcia Monique M. , Ying Gui-shuang , Cocores Christina A. , Tanaka Jacqueline C. , Komáromy András M.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To develop a quantifiable behavioral test for identification of achromatopsic dogs based on visual performance.

Animals—14 dogs.

Procedures—A 3.6-m-long obstacle-avoidance course with 6 obstacle panels was developed from a preliminary 2.4-m-long course. Achromatopsic and visually normal control dogs were run through the course at 4 ambient light intensities (from dim to bright: 0.2, 25, 65, and 646 lux). Completion of 4 runs ranging from dimmest to brightest light intensity constituted 1 complete trial. Each dog underwent 3 trials. Transit times were measured and compared between dog groups and between light intensities by use of a generalized linear model and ANOVA.

Results—At the 3 highest light intensities, the achromatopsic dogs needed significantly more time to pass through the obstacle course than the control animals. Compared with the mean transit time at the lowest light intensity, mean transit times were 2.6 times as long at 25 lux, 3.2 times as long at 65 lux, and 5.7 times as long at 646 lux. The achromatopsic dogs had signs of increasing difficulty navigating around the obstacle panels with increasing light intensities; this was not the situation for the control dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A 3.6-m-long obstacle-avoidance course with 6 movable obstacle panels allowed identification of achromatopsic dogs at ambient light intensities ≥ 25 lux based on transit times. This test could be helpful in the evaluation of new cone photoreceptor specific treatments.
Multicenter veterinary practice assessment of the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on osteoarthritis in dogs
Authors: Roush James K. , Dodd Chadwick E. , Fritsch Dale A. , Allen Timothy A. , Jewell Dennis E. , Schoenherr William D. , Richardson Daniel C. , Leventhal Phillip S. , Hahn Kevin A.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To assess the effect of food containing high concentrations of fish oil omega-3 fatty acids and a low omega-6–omega-3 fatty acid ratio on clinical signs of osteoarthritis in dogs.

Design—Randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical trial.

Animals—127 client-owned dogs with osteoarthritis in 1 or more joints from 18 privately owned veterinary clinics.

Procedures—Dogs were randomly assigned to be fed for 6 months with a typical commercial food or a test food containing a 31-fold increase in total omega-3 fatty acid content and a 34-fold decrease in omega-6–omega-3 ratio, compared with the control food. Dog owners completed a questionnaire about their dog's arthritic condition, and investigators performed a physical examination and collected samples for a CBC and serum biochemical analyses (including measurement of fatty acids concentration) at the onset of the study and at 6, 12, and 24 weeks afterward.

Results—Dogs fed the test food had a significantly higher serum concentration of total omega-3 fatty acids and a significantly lower serum concentration of arachidonic acid at 6, 12, and 24 weeks. According to owners, dogs fed the test food had a significantly improved ability to rise from a resting position and play at 6 weeks and improved ability to walk at 12 and 24 weeks, compared with control dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Ingestion of the test food raised blood concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids and appeared to improve the arthritic condition in pet dogs with osteoarthritis.
Evaluation of the effects of dietary supplementation with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids on weight bearing in dogs with osteoarthritis
Authors: Roush James K. , Cross Alan R. , Renberg Walter C. , Dodd Chadwick E. , Sixby Kristin A. , Fritsch Dale A. , Allen Timothy A. , Jewell Dennis E. , Richardson Daniel C. , Leventhal Phillip S. , Hahn Kevin A.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To evaluate the effects of a food supplemented with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids on weight bearing in dogs with osteoarthritis.

Design—Randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical trial.

Animals—38 client-owned dogs with osteoarthritis examined at 2 university veterinary clinics.

Procedures—Dogs were randomly assigned to receive a typical commercial food (n = 16) or a test food (22) containing 3.5% fish oil omega-3 fatty acids. On day 0 (before the trial began) and days 45 and 90 after the trial began, investigators conducted orthopedic evaluations and force-plate analyses of the most severely affected limb of each dog, and owners completed questionnaires to characterize their dogs' arthritis signs.

Results—The change in mean peak vertical force between days 90 and 0 was significant for the test-food group (5.6%) but not for the control-food group (0.4%). Improvement in peak vertical force values was evident in 82% of the dogs in the test-food group, compared with 38% of the dogs in the control-food group. In addition, according to investigators' subjective evaluations, dogs fed the test food had significant improvements in lameness and weight bearing on day 90, compared with measurements obtained on day 0.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—At least in the short term, dietary supplementation with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids resulted in an improvement in weight bearing in dogs with osteoarthritis.
Evaluation of calorie density and feeding directions for commercially available diets designed for weight loss in dogs and cats
Authors: Linder Deborah E. , Freeman Lisa M.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To determine range of calorie density and feeding directions for commercially available diets designed for weight management in dogs and cats.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Sample Population—93 diets (44 canine diets and 49 feline diets) that had a weight management claim with feeding directions for weight loss or implied weight management claims.

Procedures—Calorie density was collected from product labels or by contacting manufacturers. Recommended feeding directions for weight loss were compared with resting energy requirement (RER) for current body weight by use of a standard body weight (36.4 kg [80 lb] for canine diets and 5.5 kg [12 lb] for feline diets).

Results—Calorie density for the 44 canine diets ranged from 217 to 440 kcal/cup (median, 301 kcal/cup) and from 189 to 398 kcal/can (median, 310 kcal/can) for dry and canned diets, respectively. Calorie density for the 49 feline diets ranged from 235 to 480 kcal/cup (median, 342 kcal/cup) and from 78 to 172 kcal/can (median, 146 kcal/can) for dry and canned diets, respectively. Recommended calorie intake for weight loss in dogs ranged from 0.73 to 1.47 × RER (median, 1.00 × RER) and for weight loss in cats ranged from 0.67 to 1.55 × RER (median, 1.00 × RER). Diets ranged from $0.04 to $1.11/100 kcal of diet (median, $0.15/100 kcal of diet).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Wide variation existed in recommended calorie intake, kilocalories, and cost for diets marketed for weight loss in pets. This variability could contribute to challenges of achieving successful weight loss in pets.
Evaluation of the diagnostic value of an implantable loop recorder in dogs with unexplained syncope
Authors: Santilli Roberto A. , Ferasin Luca , Voghera Simona G. , Perego Manuela
Published: January 2010

Objective—To evaluate the diagnostic value of an implantable loop recorder (ILR) in dogs with unexplained syncope.

Design—Prospective case series.

Animals—12 dogs with recurrent unexplained syncope.

Procedures—An ILR was surgically inserted in a pocket created in the subcutaneous tissues of the left hemithorax of each dog. The ILRs were programmed for manual and automatic activation, and event analysis and programming were performed at 3-month intervals and after each syncopal episode.

Results—The ILR was manually activated in 7 of 12 dogs at least once within 45 to 218 days (median, 120 days) after implantation. Four dogs had syncopal episodes associated with sinus tachycardia followed by sinus bradycardia and asystolic pauses. Two dogs had ventricular tachycardia, and 1 dog had sinus node dysfunction with prolonged sinus arrest that coincided with loss of consciousness and falling. Four dogs had no additional syncopal episodes after implantation of the ILR. In the remaining dog, the owner was unable to activate the ILR during the only syncopal episode observed for that dog after ILR implantation. In all 12 dogs, analysis of ECG traces after automatic activation of recording revealed normal cardiac rhythms.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Data gained after manual activation of an ILR provided valuable diagnostic and prognostic information in almost all dogs with unexplained syncopal episodes by confirming or disproving an association between syncope and arrhythmias. However, detection of disturbances in cardiac rhythm after automatic activation did not appear to improve the diagnostic value for an ILR implanted in dogs.
Association between outcome and organ system dysfunction in dogs with sepsis: 114 cases (2003–2007)
Authors: Kenney Eileen M. , Rozanski Elizabeth A. , Rush John E. , deLaforcade-Buress Armelle M. , Berg John R. , Silverstein Deborah C. , Montealegre Catalina D. , Jutkowitz L. Ari , Adamantos Sophie , Ovbey Dianna H. , Boysen Soren R. , Shaw Scott P.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To determine whether multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) could be identified in dogs with sepsis secondary to gastrointestinal tract leakage, and whether the number of affected organ systems was significantly associated with mortality rate.

Design—Multicenter retrospective case series.

Animals—114 dogs.

Procedures—Medical records for dogs treated surgically because of sepsis secondary to gastrointestinal tract leakage between 2003 and 2007 were reviewed. Sepsis was diagnosed on the basis of results of bacterial culture of peritoneal fluid, gross evidence of gastrointestinal tract leakage at surgery, or both. Renal dysfunction was defined as a ≥ 0.5 mg/dL increase in serum creatinine concentration after surgery. Cardiovascular dysfunction was defined as hypotension requiring vasopressor treatment. Respiratory dysfunction was defined as a need for supplemental oxygen administration or mechanical ventilation. Hepatic dysfunction was defined as a serum bilirubin concentration > 0.5 mg/dL. Dysfunction of coagulation was defined as prolonged prothrombin time, prolonged partial thromboplastin time, or platelet count ≤ 100,000/μL.

Results—89 (78%) dogs had dysfunction of 1 or more organ systems, and 57 (50%) dogs had MODS. Mortality rate increased as the number of dysfunctional organ systems increased. Mortality rate was 70% (40/57) for dogs with MODS and 25% (14/57) for dogs without.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that MODS, defined as dysfunction of at least 2 organ systems, can be identified in dogs with sepsis and that organ system dysfunction increased the odds of death.
Risk factors for surgical site infection-inflammation in dogs undergoing surgery for rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament: 902 cases (2005–2006)
Authors: Frey Tracy N. , Hoelzler Michael G. , Scavelli Thomas D. , Fulcher Ryan P. , Bastian Richard P.
Published: January 2010

Objective—To evaluate the incidence of and potential risk factors associated with development of postoperative infection-inflammation in a large number of dogs with rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) that were treated via elective surgery.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—808 dogs that underwent surgery (902 procedures) for rupture of the CCL.

Procedures—Medical records of dogs that underwent extracapsular lateral suture (ECLS) stabilization or tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2006, were reviewed. Data regarding development of postoperative infection-inflammation were obtained. Potential risk factors were identified and recorded.

Results—496 ECLS surgeries were performed, and 406 TPLO surgeries were performed. Infection-inflammation developed in 55 of 902 (6.1%) surgeries within 6 months after surgery. There was a significant difference in infection-inflammation rate after the ECLS surgeries (21/496 [4.2%]), compared with rate after the TPLO surgeries (34/406 [8.4%]). Factors associated with a significantly lower rate of infection-inflammation included the use of suture material other than stainless-steel staples for skin closure and postoperative oral administration of antimicrobials.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—TPLO was associated with a significantly higher rate of infection-inflammation than the infection-inflammation rate after ECLS stabilization. The use of suture material other than staples for skin closure and postoperative oral administration of antimicrobials may be protective in minimizing infection-inflammation in dogs with rupture of the CCL that are treated via ECLS or TPLO.
Theoretical Conceptions in Sport Social Sciences
Authors: Krawczyk Zbigniew
Published: January 2010

Theoretical Conceptions in Sport Social Sciences

In the presented study we assume, after Piotr Sztompka that a sociological theory is every set of ontological, epistemological and methodological assumptions, abstract notions and general propositions concerning social reality which is to provide with explanation of existing descriptive knowledge about it and orient future research (Sztompka 1985, p. 12). In the discussed theory there have developed hitherto the following orientations: the systemic-functional one, the ethnomethodological one, symbolic interactionism, theory of conflict, socio-historical theory and positivist theory. They have together shaped theoretical conceptions in sociology of sport and — indirectly — in other social physical culture sciences.

Interpreting the issue in a prospective way, it can be assumed that in the future there will appear other theories, such as the theory of behaviour, the theory of rational choice, the sociobiological theory, the theory of power, the theory of neo-institutionalism and others.

Sociology, however, need not to be the only source of inspiration for sociohumane sports sciences. An equally important role can be played there by philosophy and psychology. Moreover, that thesis can be referred to other humanities, especially to history and pedagogy, as well as to philosophical, sociological and pedagogical versions of theory of physical culture — or to multidisciplinary theories, as e.g. postmodernist and globalist ones.
Sociology of Sport: Conceptual and Topical Issues
Authors: Sekot Aleš
Published: January 2010

Sociology of Sport: Conceptual and Topical Issues

This paper is intended to encourage students and readers in general to think more critically about sports and how they are related to contemporary society. We emphasize socialization impacts of sports as well as increasing process of organization, commercialisation, and globalisation of sports. Sports are social constructions and particularly in a form presented in mass media are an integral part of modern way of life. It carries pleasure as well as sadness for millions of people. Sports are institutionalised competitive activities that involve rigorous physical exertion or the use of relatively complex physical skills by participant motivation, by personal enjoyment and external rewards. Global aspects of contemporary sports are discussed from the point of view of their technological, economical, medial and ideological dimensions.
Treatment of an Individual With Piriformis Syndrome Focusing on Hip Muscle Strengthening and Movement Reeducation: A Case Report
Authors: Tonley Jason C. , Yun Steven M. , Kochevar Ronald J. , Dye Jeremy A. , Farrokhi Shawn , Powers Christopher M.
Published: December 2009

Study Design

Case report.

Objective

To describe an alternative treatment approach for piriformis syndrome using a hip muscle strengthening program with movement reeducation.

Background

Interventions for piriformis syndrome typically consist of stretching and/or soft tissue massage to the piriformis muscle. The premise underlying this approach is that a shortening or “spasm” of the piriformis is responsible for the compression placed upon the sciatic nerve.

Case Description

The patient was a 30-year-old male with right buttock and posterior thigh pain for 2 years. Clinical findings upon examination included reproduction of symptoms with palpation and stretching of the piriformis. Movement analysis during a single-limb step-down revealed excessive hip adduction and internal rotation, which reproduced his symptoms. Strength assessment revealed weakness of the right hip abductor and external rotator muscles. The patient's treatment was limited to hip-strengthening exercises and movement reeducation to correct the excessive hip adduction and internal rotation during functional tasks.

Outcomes

Following the intervention, the patient reported 0/10 pain with all activities. The initial Lower Extremity Functional Scale questionnaire score of 65/80 improved to 80/80. Lower extremity kinematics for peak hip adduction and internal rotation improved from 15.9° and 12.8° to 5.8° and 5.9°, respectively, during a step-down task.

Discussion

This case highlights an alternative view of the pathomechanics of piriformis syndrome (overstretching as opposed to over-shortening) and illustrates the need for functional movement analysis as part of the examination of these patients.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(2):103–111. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3108
Strengthening and Neuromuscular Reeducation of the Gluteus Maximus in a Triathlete with Exercise-Associated Cramping of the Hamstrings
Authors: Wagner Tracey , Behnia Nazly , Ancheta Won-Kay Lau , Shen Richard , Farrokhi Shawn , Powers Christopher M
Published: December 2009

Study Design

Case report.

Objective

To highlight the effects of an intervention program consisting of strengthening and neuromuscular reeducation of the gluteus maximus in an elite triathlete with exercise-associated muscle cramping (EAMC).

Background

Researchers have described 2 theories concerning the etiology of EAMC: (1) muscle fatigue and (2) electrolyte deficit. As such, interventions for EAMC typically consist of stretching/strengthening of the involved muscle and/or supplements to restore electrolyte imbalances.

Case Description

The patient was a 42-year-old male triathlete with a primary complaint of recurrent cramping of his right hamstring muscle, which prevented him from completing races at his desired pace. Strength testing revealed gluteus maximus muscle weakness bilaterally. Electromyographic (EMG) analysis (surface electrodes, 1560 Hz) revealed that the right hamstrings were being activated excessively during terminal swing and the first half of the stance phase (48.1% maximum voluntary isometric contraction [MVIC]).

Outcomes

Following the intervention, the patient was able to complete 3 triathlons without hamstring cramping. Strength testing revealed that the right hip extension strength improved from 35.6 to 54.7 kg, and activation of the hamstrings during terminal swing and the first half of the stance phase decreased to 36.4% of MVIC.

Discussion

A program of gluteus maximus strengthening and neuromuscular training eliminated EAMC of the hamstrings in this patient. Given that the hamstrings and gluteus maximus work as agonists to decelerate the thigh during terminal swing phase and control hip flexion during loading response of running, we postulate that strengthening of the gluteus maximus decreased the relative effort required by the hamstrings, thus reducing EAMC. The results of the EMG evaluation that was performed as part of this case report provides support for this hypothesis.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(2):112–119. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3110
How Many Studies Do You Need?
Authors: Valentine Jeffrey C. , Pigott Therese D. , Rothstein Hannah R.
Published: January 2010

In this article, the authors outline methods for using fixed and random effects power analysis in the context of meta-analysis. Like statistical power analysis for primary studies, power analysis for meta-analysis can be done either prospectively or retrospectively and requires assumptions about parameters that are unknown. The authors provide some suggestions for thinking about these parameters, in particular for the random effects variance component. The authors also show how the typically uninformative retrospective power analysis can be made more informative. The authors then discuss the value of confidence intervals, show how they could be used in addition to or instead of retrospective power analysis, and also demonstrate that confidence intervals can convey information more effectively in some situations than power analyses alone. Finally, the authors take up the question “How many studies do you need to do a meta-analysis?” and show that, given the need for a conclusion, the answer is “two studies,” because all other synthesis techniques are less transparent and/or are less likely to be valid. For systematic reviewers who choose not to conduct a quantitative synthesis, the authors provide suggestions for both highlighting the current limitations in the research base and for displaying the characteristics and results of studies that were found to meet inclusion criteria.
Prevention of ventricular catheter obstruction and slit ventricle syndrome by the prophylactic use of the Integra antisiphon device in shunt therapy for pediatric hypertensive hydrocephalus: a 25-year follow-up study
Authors: Gruber Rolf W. , Roehrig Bernd
Published: December 2009

Object

This 25-year follow-up study was performed on 120 children with hypertensive hydrocephalus to evaluate the influence of the early prophylactic implantation of the Integra antisiphon device (ASD, Integra Neurosciences Ltd.) on the rate of proximal shunt obstructions and the frequency of symptomatic slit ventricle syndrome (SVS). The adaptability of the ASD to growth, proper positioning of the ASD as a necessity for its successful performance, and the 3 phases of SVS development are discussed.

Method

Since 1978, the ASD has consistently been implanted either at the time of primary shunt insertion (66 neonates, mean follow-up 11 years) or during revisions of preexisting shunts (54 children, mean follow-up 11.8 years). The complication rate among the 54 children before ASD implantation (mean follow-up 8.3 years) was compared with that among all 120 patients once an ASD had been inserted. Shunt complications were documented as ventricular catheter, distal catheter, and infectious complications.

Results

The study revealed a significant long-term reduction in ventricular catheter obstructions and hospitalizations due to intermittent intracranial hypertension symptoms (symptomatic SVS) after both primary and secondary ASD implantation. Data in the study suggest that the high rate of ventricular catheter obstruction in pediatric shunt therapy is caused by hydrostatic suction induced by differential-pressure valve shunts during mobilization of the patient and that the development of a SVS can be traced back to this constant suction, which causes chronic CSF overdrainage and ventricular noncompliance. Recurrent ventricular catheter obstruction and SVS can be prevented by prophylactic supplementation of every shunt system with an ASD.

Conclusions

To inhibit chronic hydrostatic suction, to prevent overdrainage and proximal shunt obstruction, and to avoid SVS and thus improve the patient's quality of life, the prophylactic implantation of an ASD in every pediatric hydrocephalus shunt is recommended.
Is an endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene mutation a risk factor in the origin of intraventricular hemorrhage?
Authors: Vannemreddy Prasad , Notarianni Christina , Yanamandra Krishna , Napper Dawn , Bocchini Joseph
Published: December 2009

Object

Studies have shown decreased levels of nitric oxide (NO), the product of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) gene activity, in infants with respiratory conditions and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). The authors evaluated the association of the eNOS gene promoter polymorphism T-786C with the cause of these conditions (respiratory conditions and IVH) in premature infants.

Methods

Blood samples from 124 African American premature infants were studied. The DNA was isolated and microplate polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism assay was performed. Genotypes were scored as: TT homozygotes with 140 bp and 40 bp; CC homozygotes with 90 bp, 50 bp, and 40 bp; and TC heterozygotes with 140 bp, 90 bp, 50 bp, and 40 bp. Genotypes were stratified according to ethnicity, preterm status, and prematurity conditions.

Results

The mutant allele -786C was present in 15.3% of premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and IVH, compared with 7.25% in those premature infants without these conditions. A significant 2-fold increase of the mutant allele in patients compared with controls (p = 0.04, OR 2.3) reveals that the eNOS -786C allele could be a significant risk factor in the origin of respiratory conditions and IVH in premature infants.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the mutant eNOS -786C allele is a significant risk factor in the origin of respiratory and IVH diseases, probably mediating an insufficient supply of endogenous NO in premature infants.
The many roles of microRNAs in brain tumor biology
Authors: Turner Jay D. , Williamson Richard , Almefty Kaith K. , Nakaji Peter , Porter Randall , Tse Victor , Kalani M. Yashar S.
Published: December 2009

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are now recognized as the primary RNAs involved in the purposeful silencing of the cell's own message. In addition to the established role of miRNAs as developmental regulators of normal cellular function, they have recently been shown to be important players in pathological states such as cancer. The authors review the literature on the role of miRNAs in the formation and propagation of gliomas and medulloblastomas, highlighting the potential of these molecules and their inhibitors as therapeutics.
Functional genomic analysis of glioblastoma multiforme through short interfering RNA screening: a paradigm for therapeutic development
Authors: Thaker Nikhil G. , Zhang Fang , McDonald Peter R. , Shun Tong Ying , Lazo John S. , Pollack Ian F.
Published: December 2009

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a high-grade brain malignancy arising from astrocytes. Despite aggressive surgical approaches, optimized radiation therapy regimens, and the application of cytotoxic chemotherapies, the median survival of patients with GBM from time of diagnosis remains less than 15 months, having changed little in decades. Approaches that target genes and biological pathways responsible for tumorigenesis or potentiate the activity of current therapeutic modalities could improve treatment efficacy. In this regard, several genomic and proteomic strategies promise to impact significantly on the drug discovery process. High-throughput genome-wide screening with short interfering RNA (siRNA) is one strategy for systematically exploring possible therapeutically relevant targets in GBM. Statistical methods and protein-protein interaction network databases can also be applied to the screening data to explore the genes and pathways that underlie the pathological basis and development of GBM. In this study, we highlight several genome-wide siRNA screens and implement these experimental concepts in the T98G GBM cell line to uncover the genes and pathways that regulate GBM cell death and survival. These studies will ultimately influence the development of a new avenue of neurosurgical therapy by placing the drug discovery process in the context of the entire biological system.
Functional genomics to explore cancer cell vulnerabilities
Authors: Kahle Kristopher T. , Kozono David , Ng Kimberly , Hsieh Grace , Zinn Pascal O. , Nitta Masayuki , Chen Clark C.
Published: December 2009

Our understanding of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common form of primary brain cancer, has been significantly advanced by recent efforts to characterize the cancer genome using unbiased high-throughput sequencing analyses. While these studies have documented hundreds of mutations, gene copy alterations, and chromosomal abnormalities, only a subset of these alterations are likely to impact tumor initiation or maintenance. Furthermore, genes that are not altered at the genomic level may play essential roles in tumor initiation and maintenance. Identification of these genes is critical for therapeutic development and investigative methodologies that afford insight into biological function. This requirement has largely been fulfilled with the emergence of RNA interference (RNAi) and high-throughput screening technology. In this article, the authors discuss the application of genome-wide, high-throughput RNAi-based genetic screening as a powerful tool for the rapid and cost-effective identification of genes essential for cancer proliferation and survival. They describe how these technologies have been used to identify genes that are themselves selectively lethal to cancer cells, or synthetically lethal with other oncogenic mutations. The article is intended to provide a platform for how RNAi libraries might contribute to uncovering glioma cell vulnerabilities and provide information that is highly complementary to the structural characterization of the glioblastoma genome. The authors emphasize that unbiased, systems-level structural and functional genetic approaches are complementary efforts that should facilitate the identification of genes involved in the pathogenesis of GBM and permit the identification of novel drug targets.