bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
You've got mail! An examination of a statewide direct‐mail marketing campaign to promote deceased organ donor registrations
Authors: Quick Brian L. , LaVoie Nicole R. , Morgan Susan E. , Bosch Dave
Published: September 2015

Background

This study extends previous direct‐mail campaigns by evaluating the effectiveness of a marketing campaign promoting organ donation message strategies from the vantage point of organ donors, organ recipients, individuals on the waiting list, or a combination of these three frames.

Methods

Illinois residents were randomly assigned to one of four organ donation brochures disseminated via U.S. postal mail. Registrations occurred via the Internet and U.S. postal mail.

Results

Individuals register at a greater rate following exposure to the combination framed message compared to organ donor, organ recipient, and waiting list narratives. The campaign revealed that individuals are more likely to register via U.S. postal mail than the Internet.

Conclusion

Direct‐mail marketing efforts were shown to be an effective approach to promote organ and tissue donation registrations. The results demonstrated a preference for the combination framed brochure. The results are discussed with an emphasis on the practical implications of utilizing direct‐mail marketing efforts to promote organ donation among young adults.
The hyperkinetic movement disorder of FOXG1‐related epileptic–dyskinetic encephalopathy
Authors: Cellini Elena , Vignoli Aglaia , Pisano Tiziana , Falchi Melania , Molinaro Anna , Accorsi Patrizia , Bontacchio Alessia , Pinelli Lorenzo , Giordano Lucio , Guerrini Renzo ,   FOXG1 Syndrome Study Group
Published: September 2015

Aim

Forkhead Box G1 (FOXG1) syndrome is a developmental encephalopathy characterized by postnatal microcephaly, structural brain abnormalities, facial dysmorphisms, severe delay with absent language, defective social interactions, and epilepsy. Abnormal movements in FOXG1 syndrome have often been mentioned but not characterized.

Method

We clinically assessed and analysed video recordings of eight patients with different mutations or copy number variations affecting the FOXG1 gene and describe the peculiar pattern of the associated movement disorder.

Results

The age of the patients in the study ranged from 2 to 17 years old (six females, two males). They had severe epilepsy and exhibited a complex motor disorder including various combinations of dyskinetic and hyperkinetic movements featuring dystonia, chorea, and athetosis. The onset of the movement disorder was apparent within the first year of life, reached its maximum expression within months, and then remained stable.

Interpretation

A hyperkinetic–dyskinetic movement disorder emerges as a distinctive feature of the FOXG1‐related phenotype. FOXG1 syndrome is as an epileptic–dyskinetic encephalopathy whose clinical presentation bears similarities with ARX‐ and STXBP1‐gene related encephalopathies.
Happiness and well‐being: surgical outcomes for families and children with severe cerebral palsy
Authors: Gannotti Mary
Published: September 2015

This commentary is on the original article by DiFazio et al. on pages 298–305 of this issue.
Factors associated with failure to achieve a glycated haemoglobin target of <8.0% in the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD) trial
Authors: Drake T. C. , Hsu F.‐C. , Hire D. , Chen S.‐H. , Cohen R. M. , McDuffie R. , Nylen E. , O'Connor P. , Rehman S. , Seaquist E. R.
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to identify the clinical features of participants in the standard therapy arm of the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD) glycaemia trial who failed to reach the glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) target. We analysed 4685 participants in the standard therapy arm, comparing participants who reached the HbA1c target of <8.0% with those whose HbA1c level was ≥8.0% 12 months after randomization. Baseline and 12‐month clinical characteristics were compared. At 12 months after randomization, 3194 participants had HbA1c <8.0% and 1491 had HbA1c ≥8.0%. Black race [odds ratio (OR) 0.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.61–0.89; p = 0.002], severe hypoglycaemia (OR 0.57, CI 0.37–0.89; p = 0.014) and insulin use (OR 0.51, CI 0.40–0.65; p < 0.001) were associated with failure to reach HbA1c goal at 12 months in the adjusted model. Even with free medications, free visits with clinicians and aggressive titration of medications, >30% of participants in the standard arm of the ACCORD trial had an HbA1c ≥8.0% at 1 year. Participants who were black, had severe hypoglycaemia and were on insulin were more likely to have an above‐target HbA1c concentration after 12 months on the standard protocol.
Acute Myocarditis Diagnosed by Layer‐Specific 2D Longitudinal Speckle Tracking Analysis
Authors: Caspar Thibault , Germain Philippe , Ghannudi Soraya El , Morel Olivier , Samet Hafida , Trinh Annie , Petit‐Eisenmann Hélène , Talha Samy , Fichot Marie , Jesel Laurence , Ohlmann Patrick
Published: September 2015

Mini‐Abstract

This is a report of a 34‐year‐old patient presenting with acute chest pain, whose diagnosis of acute myocarditis was suspected by layer‐specific longitudinal speckle tracking analysis, showing preferential alteration of subepicardial deformation in the left ventricular lateral wall, and confirmed by cardiac MRI showing late gadolinium enhancement in the subepicardium of the same LV segments.
Revisiting the Growth–Inflation Nexus: A Wavelet Analysis
Authors: Bhaduri Saumitra
Published: September 2015

Motivated by the concern that the recent surge in inflation could retard growth, the paper revisits the nexus between inflation and growth from the perspective of an emerging economy, India. Examining this relationship using a wavelet multi‐resolution analysis with varying time scale decomposition suggests a strong and persistent negative relationship between growth and inflation for a short time scale, while it is not significant for a longer time scale.
Interspecific competition between the round goby, Neogobius melanostomus, and the logperch, Percina caprodes, in the Duluth‐Superior Harbour
Authors: Leino Jared R. , Mensinger Allen F.
Published: September 2015

The Laurentian Great Lakes have been the site of numerous aquatic invasive species such as the sea lamprey, zebra mussel and round goby. To further understand interactions between invasive and native species in situ, competitive interactions between native logperch (Percina caprodes) and invasive round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) were examined using submerged enclosures in the Duluth‐Superior Harbour. Experiments were conducted on rocky or sandy substrate throughout the spring and summer months. Trials consisted of single fish, paired conspecifics or round goby/logperch pairs with weight change determined after 28 days. The round gobies were able to outcompete and/or negatively affect logperch on rocky substrates as a direct result of round goby/logperch interactions, as logperch fared well when round gobies were excluded from the enclosures. Although there is evidence that round gobies exclude logperch from rocky substrates, the logperch population remains close to pre‐invasion levels in the predominantly soft‐bottomed harbour. The continued coexistence of the logperch with the round goby is attributed to the vastly greater area of soft‐bottom vs. rocky substrate in the harbour, with the round gobies in the soft bottom younger and smaller than those in the rocky substrate. Recent evidence suggests that the round goby population is declining on the soft substrates indicating that the two populations will continue to coexist in the harbour.
Potential direct and indirect effects of climate change on a shallow natural lake fish assemblage
Authors: Breeggemann Jason J. , Kaemingk Mark A. , DeBates Timothy J. , Paukert Craig P. , Krause Jacob R. , Letvin Alexander P. , Stevens Tanner M. , Willis David W. , Chipps Steven R.
Published: September 2015

Much uncertainty exists around how fish communities in shallow lakes will respond to climate change. In this study, we modelled the effects of increased water temperatures on consumption and growth rates of two piscivores (northern pike [Esox lucius] and largemouth bass [Micropterus salmoides]) and examined relative effects of consumption by these predators on two prey species (bluegill [Lepomis macrochirus] and yellow perch [Perca flavescens]). Bioenergetics models were used to simulate the effects of climate change on growth and food consumption using predicted 2040 and 2060 temperatures in a shallow Nebraska Sandhill lake, USA. The patterns and magnitude of daily and cumulative consumption during the growing season (April–October) were generally similar between the two predators. However, growth of northern pike was always reduced (−3 to −45% change) compared to largemouth bass that experienced subtle changes (4 to −6% change) in weight by the end of the growing season. Assuming similar population size structure and numbers of predators in 2040–2060, future consumption of bluegill and yellow perch by northern pike and largemouth bass will likely increase (range: 3–24%), necessitating greater prey biomass to meet future energy demands. The timing of increased predator consumption will likely shift towards spring and fall (compared to summer), when prey species may not be available in the quantities required. Our findings suggest that increased water temperatures may affect species at the edge of their native range (i.e. northern pike) and a potential mismatch between predator and prey could exist.
Study of factors related to the reflection abilities of dental trainees
Authors: Oto T. , Obayashi T. , Taguchi N. , Ogawa T.
Published: September 2015

Introduction

This study analysed the internal and external factors related to the reflection abilities of dental trainees.

Participants and methods

We created transcripts from oral presentations by the dental trainees of Hiroshima University Hospital (n = 35, 2012–2013) at a significant event analysis conference. The reflection depths were compared between the trainees of the university hospital and external clinical combination groups. We determined and statistically analysed the reflection depths.

Results

At the end of training, a Mann–Whitney U‐test revealed a significant difference in the median reflection depths of the groups (U = 66, W = 342 and P = 0.007). The results of multiple regression analysis indicated a significant relation between the reflection depth and external training completion (P = 0.024). There were no relations with other factors, including gender and academic background.

Conclusion

Experiences in external clinics create a close connection between the staff and trainees because communities of practice can cause deeper reflections. We need to create small groups in large‐scale organisations such as university hospitals. This construct can be adapted not only for Japanese dental trainees but also for global dental and other medical trainees.
Start‐ups' Internationalization: The Impact of Business Owners' Management Experience, Start‐up Experience and Professional Network on Export Intensity
Authors: Debrulle Jonas , Maes Johan
Published: September 2015

This study investigates the influence of business owner experience (management/start‐up) and professional networking on start‐up export intensity. In addition, we assume networking to mediate the experience – export intensity relationship. Flemish start‐ups form this study's empirical setting. Our results indicate that start‐up export intensity is directly driven by professional networking. Management experience is a positive antecedent of networking while start‐up experience is negatively related to professional networking. All in all, management and start‐up experience connect only indirectly to export intensity, fully mediated by networking. Implications and opportunities for future research are suggested.
To Bribe or Not to Bribe? Determinants in the Indian Context
Authors: Ramamoorthy Nagarajan , Kulkarni Subodh P. , Gupta Amit
Published: September 2015

In the present study, using a sample of 113 MBA students from a premier management institute in India, we examined the influences on the propensity to bribe. As hypothesized, the results of the logistic regression model indicated that individuals' perception of distributive injustice in their organization resulted in an increased propensity to bribe. Contrary to our hypothesis, individuals' perception of procedural fairness increased the probability of propensity to bribe. Additionally, the hypothesis that the propensity to bribe would increase when the financial benefits accrue to the individual rather than the organization and its members received marginal support. The results also showed that the propensity to bribe increased when the bribe‐giver had greater concern for the employees of the organization; and the propensity to bribe decreased when the bribe‐giver exhibited greater concern for customers. Finally, we discuss the implications of our study for research and practice.
Neurocysticercosis: An uncommon cause of drug‐refractory epilepsy in North Indian population
Authors: Goyal Manoj , Chand Partap , Modi Manish , Khandelwal Niranjan , Kharbanda Parampreet Singh , Lal Vivek , Singla Veenu , Sehgal Rakesh
Published: September 2015

Objective

Being a common cause of epilepsy in endemic areas, neurocysticercosis (NCC) is expected to account for a sizable proportion of patients with drug‐refractory epilepsy (DRE) as well. However, data regarding prevalence of DRE in NCC are sparse. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of DRE as well as identification of clinical and radiologic factors that lead to DRE in patients with NCC.

Methods

This study was conducted in a tertiary‐care postgraduate teaching institute in Northern India from July 2011 to July 2013. Two hundred patients with epilepsy due to NCC (definite [n = 59, 29.5%] or probable [n = 141, 70.5%]) based on diagnostic criteria by Del Brutto et al. were enrolled in the study in both a prospective (n = 51 [25.5%]) and a retrospective manner (n = 149 [74.5%]), and were followed for a minimum period of 1 year.

Results

Thirteen patients with NCC were found to be refractory to drug therapy. Prevalence of DRE was found to be 65 of 1,000 NCC patients with epilepsy in the present study. The risk factors associated with high risk of DRE were male sex (p = 0.035), older age (p = 0.016), pig‐raising practices (p = 0.003), pork eating (p = 0.04), and presence of multiple (>2) (p = 0.0001) or mixed stage lesions (p = 0.007) on neuroimaging. On multivariate analysis, it was found that residing in an area where pig raising is prevalent (p = 0.01) and presence of multiple (>2) (p = 0.004) lesions on neuroimaging are associated with increased risk of DRE.

Significance

NCC is only rarely associated with the development of DRE. The common risk factors associated with increased chance of DRE include pig‐rearing practices and presence of multiple (>2) lesions on neuroimaging.
Dreaming About Love and Danger: A Holistic Bioevolutionary Perspective on Personality, Politics, and Culture
Authors: Ingham John
Published: September 2015

This article offers a holistic evolutionary perspective on dreaming and early sexual development. Going beyond Freud, and more in line with recent psychoanalysis and academic research, oedipality becomes part of understanding the development of sexual strategy, while dreaming is viewed as an evolved mechanism for moderating and updating affectively charged approach‐avoidance conflicts associated with self‐preservation and reproduction. The article suggests plausible evolutionary assumptions for interpretations of politics and expressive culture.
The Morality of Performance: HIV Disclosure in Speech and Song in South Africa
Authors: Black Steven P.
Published: September 2015

This article synthesizes anthropological research on morality and performance, drawing from ethnographic fieldwork with a Zulu choir that was an HIV support group and AIDS activist organization. The article responds to an increasing level of anthropological interest in the topic of morality and contributes to an emerging body of literature on language and experience. The concept of moral assemblages is used to examine the embodied communicative dispositions of choir members amid two overlapping and sometimes conflicting public discourses about HIV disclosure. Building on previous research on how performance makes it possible to address topics otherwise outside cultural boundaries of acceptable speech, the article explores how framing HIV disclosure as performance allowed some South Africans living with HIV to embody the conflicting prescriptions of two distinct public discourses about disclosure.
Appraisal of the Current Evidence for Diagnostic Tests That Differentiate Medical and Surgical Colic
Authors: Curtis L. , Cullen T.E. , England G.C.W. , Burford J.H. , Freeman S.L.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Early identification of surgical cases of colic is critical to improving outcome and welfare. There have been a number of studies on diagnostic tests for colic, evaluating a range of tests to differentiate between medical and surgical cases.

Objectives

To systematically review and appraise the evidence on diagnostic tests for identifying surgical colic.

Study design

Systematic review.

Methods

The primary literature search was conducted in CAB Abstracts (1910–2014), WEB of Science (1950–2014) and MEDLINE (1946–2014) using search terms relating to equine colic. Publications were assessed against inclusion and exclusion criteria, and then reviewed using the QUADAS quality assessment tool.

Results

The primary search identified 5508 publications relating to equine colic; 976 related to diagnostic tests, 29 met the inclusion criteria and were assessed using the QUADAS tool. Of these, 16 papers reported on peritoneal fluid parameters, 21 on blood parameters, 10 on blood and peritoneal parameters, 3 on physical and blood parameters and one study on urine parameters. A range of different parameters were evaluated, with the majority of tests only being evaluated in single studies. None of the studies met QUADAS criteria 1 (representative spectrum of patients), 7/29 studies met criteria 2 (description of selection criteria) and 10/29 studies met criteria 9 (description of reference standard).

Conclusions

There are currently no published studies which use appropriate methodology to assess the accuracy of a diagnostic test in differentiating medical and surgical colic. This made direct application of the QUADAS tool challenging; predominantly due to the lack of a pre mortem ‘gold standard’ reference diagnostic test for colic. Very few studies enrolled a randomised selection of patients and there was also a propensity to case–control study design, both increasing the risk of bias and under/overestimating diagnostic accuracy.

Ethical animal research: Not applicable. Sources of funding: Laila Curtis' studentship is funded by the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham. Tom Cullen is a Junior Clinical Training Scholar funded by the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham and Oakham Veterinary Hospital. Competing interests: None declared.
Systematic Review of Evidence for Plasma and Peritoneal Lactate as a Diagnostic Test for Surgical Colic
Authors: Cullen T.E. , Curtis L. , England G.C.W. , Burford J.H. , Freeman S.L.
Published: September 2015

Reason for performing study

Measurement of lactate in horses with colic has been described for over 20 years.

Objectives

To systematically review the evidence on the use of plasma and/or peritoneal lactate as a diagnostic test for identifying surgical colic.

Study design

Systematic review.

Methods

The primary literature search was conducted in CAB Abstracts (1910–2014), WEB of Science (1950–2014) and MEDLINE (1946–2014) using search terms relating to equine colic. Publications were assessed against inclusion and exclusion criteria, and then reviewed using the QUADAS scoring system.

Results

The primary search identified 5508 publications relating to colic; 32 studies related to the use of lactate in the diagnosis of colic, 2 papers met the inclusion criteria and were assessed using QUADAS. Both papers investigated the use of plasma and peritoneal lactate to identify strangulating intestinal lesions. Both were cross‐sectional studies, and together they evaluated a total of 71 horses with confirmed strangulating lesions. Appraisal of the studies using the QUADAS tool was performed. Both papers met QUADAS criteria relating to study design and data analysis, but the QUADAS tool did highlight some limitations in terms of sample and control groups in both papers. Data analysis varied, with one study developing a model to predict the presence of a strangulating lesion, which included peritoneal lactate and other measurements, and the other study assessing optimal predictive values associated with concentrations of peritoneal lactate. Both studies concluded that peritoneal lactate was a more useful diagnostic test than blood lactate.

Conclusions

Despite the large numbers of publications reporting use of lactate, only a small number used study designs considered suitable for evaluation of diagnostic test accuracy as proposed by the Cochrane Library. Although the current evidence is limited, there is agreement on the value of peritoneal lactate as a diagnostic test for strangulating intestinal lesions.

Ethical animal research: Not applicable. Sources of funding: Tom Cullen is a Junior Clinical Training Scholar funded by the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham and Oakham Veterinary Hospital. Laila Curtis' PhD studentship is funded by the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham. Competing interests: None declared.
Evaluation of Dexamethasone for the Prevention of Post Operative Ileus
Authors: McGovern K.F. , James F.M. , O'Neill H.D. , Bladon B.M.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Inflammation is key in the development of post operative ileus in rodents, with a similar pathogenesis likely occurring in other species. Dexamethasone reduces inflammation and therefore could help reduce post operative ileus in the horse.

Objectives

To determine if dexamethasone reduces post operative ileus in horses with small intestinal disease, and assess the effect on incisional health and short‐term survival.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Fifteen horses that underwent small intestinal resection and anastomosis were given 0.1 mg/kg bwt dexamethasone intravenously during surgery (DEX). Data from a comparable number of horses that did not receive dexamethasone (NoDEX) was collected retrospectively and sequentially. Horses were matched for the type of resection performed. Fisher's Exact and Student's t tests were used for data analysis.

Results

There was no significant difference in the amount of nasogastric reflux (litres) (DEX 8.06 ± 17.12, NoDEX 10.02 ± 24.03, P = 0.39) produced or in the number of horses that produced nasogastric reflux post operatively. There was no difference in survival to discharge. The severity of incisional discharge/infection was significantly different between groups when scored 0–3 (0 being no discharge and 3 being severe discharge/infection), (P = 0.01), in favour of DEX (2/15 horses affected) vs. NoDEX (7/15).

Conclusions

Dexamethasone did not appear to have a beneficial effect on the incidence of post‐operative ileus. Administration of a single dose of dexamethasone does not appear to have a detrimental effect on short‐term survival or on incisional complications.

Ethical animal research: Research ethics committee oversight not currently required by this conference: procedures were performed as part of clinical investigations. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
Iohexol as a Marker of Intestinal Permeability in the Horse
Authors: Koskinen M.J. , Hewetson M. , Pöytäkangas M.R.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Infiltrative disease of the intestine is an important cause of weight loss in the horse. Infiltration of inflammatory or neoplastic cells into the intestinal wall and intestinal fibrosis cause changes in the integrity of the intestinal wall. This may lead to altered intestinal permeability which can be measured using the contrast medium iohexol.

Objectives

To determine if iohexol intestinal permeability, as evaluated by serum iohexol concentration, could be used to differentiate between healthy horses and horses with infiltrative disease of the large colon.

Study design

Prospective non‐randomised controlled clinical trial.

Methods

Six healthy adult horses and 4 horses with chronic infiltrative disease of the large colon were used in the study. Infiltrative disease was confirmed on post mortem in all cases, and included alimentary lymphoma and mycobacterial granulomatous enterocolitis. Following a 16‐h fast, each horse was dosed with 1.0 ml/kg bwt of iohexol as a 10% solution via nasogastric intubation. Blood samples were collected at 0, 30, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300, 360, 420 and 480 min after dosing. Iohexol concentration was determined using HPLC‐UV and the differences between the groups were analysed with a repeated measures ANOVA.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference in iohexol serum concentration between the diseased and nondiseased horses (P = 0.001). The overall difference in the mean iohexol concentration between the 2 groups was 6.07 (95% CI 3.19–8.96) μg/ml, however there appeared to be a trend towards increasing difference at later time points (240, 300, 360 min).

Conclusions

The iohexol permeability test has potential as a diagnostic tool for estimation of intestinal permeability in horses with infiltrative intestinal disease. Further studies are warranted to determine whether the test can be used to determine the site of intestinal pathology, predict the prognosis and potentially evaluate the response to treatment.

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Professor Riitta‐Mari Tulamo and Professor Thomas Spillmann and the staff of Equine College Ypäjä and the University of Helsinki Equine Teaching Hospital. The cooperation of horse owners is gratefully acknowledged.

Ethical animal research: The study protocol was approved by the National Animal Experiment Board of Finland (Eläinkoelautakunta ELLA, Request for Animal Experiments, ref. no. ESAVI‐2010‐06567/Ym‐23). For client‐owned animals, owner informed consent was obtained. Source of funding: This study was funded by the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland. Competing interests: None declared.
Efficacy of Oviductal Flushing with PGE2, in Mares, in and Out of the Breeding Season
Authors: Martynski P.D. , Payne R.J. , Wylie C.E.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

There are limited data surrounding the efficacy of oviductal flushing in restoring fertility in mares with repeated returns to oestrus.

Objectives

To determine the conception and foaling rates in mares treated by laparoscopic topical application of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) to the oviduct(s) in mares: i) in the breeding season (January–May), pre‐covering; ii) in the breeding season, post covering; and iii) out of the breeding season (June–December).

Study design

Follow‐up study.

Methods

Analysis of electronic patient records (EPRs) identified 29 mares that underwent oviductal flushing via laparoscopic surgery between 1 January 2008 and 12 October 2014. One mare underwent the procedure twice; once in the breeding season (pre‐covering) and once out of the breeding season. Follow‐up data were collected via EPRs and from Weatherbys (www.bloodstockreports.co.uk).

Results

The procedure was used in 27 Thoroughbreds, one Warmblood and one Hanoverian. Mean age at the time of the procedure was 13.1 years (range 6–22 years). Mean duration barren prior to the procedure was 1.9 years (range 49 days–5.6 years). The mean time post flushing to the first positive ultrasound scan was 31 days, with average time post flushing to foaling of 367.6 days. Of the 29 horses, 55.2% (16/29) conceived successfully, with 87.5% of these confirmed to have produced a live foal. In the breeding season, 16 mares were treated; 10 pre‐covering, and 6 post covering with conception rates of 60.0% and 83.3%, respectively. Thirteen mares were treated out of the breeding season, with a 35.7% conception rate.

Conclusions

Oviductal flushing within the breeding season was more successful in this study than flushing performed out of the breeding season. Restoration of fertility in this study was lower than that previously reported and potential reasons for this include limited pre‐surgical diagnostic testing, differing prior pathologies or reasons for sub‐fertility, and case selection.

Ethical animal research: Research ethics committee oversight not currently required by this conference: retrospective study of clinical records. Explicit owner informed consent for inclusion of animals in this study was not stated. Source of funding: C.E. Wylie is funded by the Margaret Giffen Trust. Competing interests: None declared.
Objective Assessment of Back Kinematics and Movement Asymmetry in Horses: Effect of Elastic Resistance Band Training
Authors: Simons V. , Weller R. , Stubbs N.C. , Rombach N. , Pfau T.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Training and rehabilitation techniques which improve core muscle strength are beneficial for improvement of dynamic stability of the equine vertebral column. The Equiband™ system, consisting of resistance bands attached to a customised saddle pad, is suggested to provide constant proprioceptive feedback during motion to encourage recruitment of abdominal and hindquarter musculature.

Objectives

To quantify the effect of the Equiband™ system on back kinematics and movement symmetry.

Study design

Longitudinal intervention study.

Methods

Quantitative analysis of back movement and gait symmetry before/after a 4‐week exercise programme. Inertial sensor data was collected from 7 horses at Weeks 0 and 4 of a fixed exercise protocol. Analysis with and without the Equiband™ system was completed at trot in hand on a hard surface, and for both reins on the lunge on a soft surface. Six back kinematic and 3 movement symmetry parameters were calculated according to published methods. Movement symmetry values were side‐corrected to allow comparison between reins on the lunge. A mixed model (P<0.05) evaluated the effects of the Equiband™ system over time, and trotting direction on back kinematic and movement symmetry parameters.

Results

The Equiband™ system significantly reduced (all P<0.02) roll, pitch and mediolateral displacement in the cranial‐mid thoracic region. Across all horses, back displacement and range of motion values were significantly greater (P<0.01) on the lunge than in a straight line, movement symmetry was consistent with having corrected all horses to be left‐sided.

Conclusion

Preliminary results suggest the Equiband™ system may aid dynamic stabilisation of the vertebral column.

Ethical animal research: This study was authorised by the Ethics and Welfare Committee of the Royal Veterinary College, London (URN Approval Number 1238). Written consent was obtained from the owner/keeper of each animal. Source of funding: Royal Veterinary College. Competing interests: N.C. Stubbs and N. Rombach developed the Equiband™ system. The remaining authors have no competing interests.
Thoracolumbar Movement in Sound Horses Trotting in Hand and on the Lunge
Authors: Greve L. , Dyson S. , Pfau T.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Lameness negatively affects the welfare of horses; it often coexists with thoracolumbar pain. The mechanisms linking the two are not well understood.

Objectives

To document thoracolumbar movement in subjectively sound horses comparing straight lines with circles on left and right reins; to relate these observations to the objectively determined symmetry/asymmetry of hindlimb gait.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Fourteen non‐lame horses were trotted in straight lines and lunged on a 10 m diameter circle on left and right reins and inertial sensor data collected at landmarks: withers, 13th (T13) and 18th thoracic vertebrae, 3rd lumbar vertebra, tubera sacrale, left and right tubera coxae. Data were processed using published methods [1]; pitch and roll, dorsoventral and lateral motion and symmetry within each stride were assessed.

Results

Dorsoventral motion during one stride had a sinusoidal pattern with 2 oscillations. The greatest amplitude and symmetry (119 ± 4 mm, 96 ± 1% in straight lines vs. 127 ± 5 mm, 94 ± 1% in circles) occurred at T13. Circles induced greater rotation around the transverse axis (>1.3°, P = 0.002) and movement in a lateral direction (>16 mm P = 0.002), greater dorsoventral amplitude and asymmetry; however, the latter differences were nonsignificant. There were no significant differences between reins. The difference in the left and right hindlimb stance phases and the 2 oscillations of the thoracolumbar were significantly associated. Greater circle‐induced upward movement of a tuber coxae during the contralateral hindlimb stance was associated with greater circle‐induced asymmetry of the 2 oscillations of the thoracolumbar (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Moving on a circle induces measurable changes in thoracolumbar movement compared with moving in straight lines, associated with alterations in the hindlimb gait.

Ethical animal research: The study was approved by the Ethical Review Committee of the Animal Health Trust. Owners gave informed consent for their horses' inclusion in the study. Source of funding: RVC PhD funding of Line Greve. Competing interests: None declared.
An In Vitro Investigation of the Effect of Curve Running on Equine Distal Limb Tendon Strain
Authors: Parkes R.S.V. , Witte T.H. , Pfau T. , Weller R.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Horses run on curves during training and competition, and are often trotted in circles to assist lameness diagnosis. The effects of moving on a curve on tendon strain in the distal limb are not known.

Objectives

To investigate the effect of curve running on the tendons and ligaments of the equine distal limb.

Study design

Controlled experimental study.

Methods

Cadaver forelimbs from 6 Thoroughbred horses were loaded on a forceplate using a hydraulic ram. Limbs were loaded to 17–33 N/kg on a flat surface and with medial and lateral wooden wedges under the hoof to simulate curve running with the limb being on the inside and outside of a curve, respectively. Tendon length was measured for the superficial and deep digital flexor tendons (SDFT and DDFT), accessory ligament of the DDFT (ALDDFT), the suspensory ligament body (SL) and the medial and lateral suspensory ligament branches (SBM and SBL) using motion capture. A mixed effects model was used for data analysis.

Results

Under most loading conditions SL was under most strain and DDFT least. For a medial 15° wedge SDFT was under 0.4% greater load than SL (P = 0.04). SBM was under 0.48% greater strain than SBL with a lateral 20° wedge (P = 0.01), and SBL was under 1.37% greater strain than SBM with a medial 20° wedge (P<0.01).

Conclusions

Curve running leads to increasing and asymmetrical strain on the suspensory ligament branches. This difference is unlikely to be sufficient to cause injury, but may assist lameness diagnosis.

Ethical animal research: Research ethics committee oversight not currently required by this conference: the study was performed on material collected at an abattoir. Source of funding: R. Parkes is undertaking a PhD funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board. Competing interests: None declared.
Identification of Disease Specific Metabolic Fingerprints in Early Osteoarthritis
Authors: Peffers M. , Riggs C. , Phelan M. , Clegg P.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Synovial fluid (SF) is located in joint cavities, tendon sheaths and bursae. In joints it comprises a serum filtrate with additional contributions from articular cartilage, synovium and bone. Low molecular weight metabolites represent the end product of the cell regulatory processes. Synovial fluid represents a potential source of disease specific metabolites that could aid in the understanding of the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) and be used in its early diagnosis.

Objectives

We hypothesise that there are different metabolomic profiles that can be identified in early OA SF and some of these metabolites are potential biomarkers.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Synovial fluid was used from the metacarpophalangeal joints of 9 normal and 9 OA Thoroughbred horses following macroscopic, microscopic and synovitis scoring. SF was analysed with Proton (1H)‐nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy with a 600 MHz Avance III equipped with a cryoprobe and chilled sample‐jet autosampler. The software we use is Topsin 3.1 and IconNMR 4.6.7. The following methods were used in order to identify changes in lipids and small molecules; 1D Nuclear Overhauser Effect, Longitudinal Encode‐decode and Carr‐Purcell‐Meiboom‐Gill. Data analysis was undertaken using unsupervised statistical methods and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA).

Results

The results demonstrated clustering on principle component analysis between normal and OA samples. Seven metabolites were identified as significantly different in OA P<0.05; mobile lipid 1, methyl group, 2 lactates, proline and 2 citrates. Furthermore total lipid load correlated very closely to Mankin's scoring. Using IPA we identified metabolic pathways relating to altered glycolysis in early OA.

Conclusions

We identified the metabolic fingerprint of early OA which may allow for better phenotyping of disease states and thereby facilitate targeting of improved treatment regimes.

Ethical animal research: Samples were collected at post mortem examination with informed owner consent. Sources of funding: Wellcome Trust and the MRC and Arthritis Research UK as part of the MRC – Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated research into Musculoskeletal Ageing (CIMA). Competing interests: None declared.
Sensitivity of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Relation to Histopathological Findings in Six Horses with Compressive Lesions of the Spinal Cord
Authors: Vanschandevijl K. , Nollet H. , Vercauteren G. , Ducatelle R. , Deprez P.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an electrophysiological technique used to elicit motor evoked potentials (MMEPs) to evaluate the functional integrity of the descending motor fibres in the spinal cord. Successful application of the technique was reported in horses with spinal cord compression. However, limited data are available on the correlation of TMS with histopathological changes.

Objectives

To determine sensitivity of TMS for assessing the integrity of the spinal cord in horses with compressive lesions of the spinal cord.

Study design

Case series.

Methods

The study was conducted on 6 horses with spinal ataxia grade III‐V/V admitted to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University. The horses underwent TMS, radiography of the cervical or thoracolumbar vertebral column, and myelography (4/6). All horses were subjected to euthanasia and the spinal cord examined histopathologically.

Results

In 5/6 horses MMEPs with abnormal onset latencies in both extensor carpi radialis muscles and cranial tibialis muscles were recorded, suggesting a cervical spinal cord lesion. Radiography revealed cervical vertebral malformation (4/5) with cervical vertebral canal stenosis (3/5) and tumour/osteomyelitis (1/5). In 1/6 horse MMEPs with normal onset latencies in extensor carpi radialis muscles and prolonged onset latencies in tibialis cranialis muscles were recorded, suggesting a thoracolumbar spinal cord lesion. Radiography revealed deformation of the 7th and 8th thoracic vertebrae. Myelography showed reduction in dural diameter and dorsal contrast column (4/4). Histopathological examination of the spinal cord confirmed compressive type lesions in all 6 horses with degenerative changes in the white matter of all funiculi, ballooning of myelin sheets, swollen axons, loss of axons and astroglial activation.

Conclusions

In this case series abnormal function of descending motor pathways as registered by TMS showed 100% sensitivity with the histopathological characteristics of compressive lesions in the spinal cord, but the number of horses is limited and further research is warranted.

Ethical animal research: Research ethics committee oversight not currently required by this conference: the study was performed on material collected during clinical procedures. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Source of funding: Not applicable. Competing interests: None declared.
Diffusion of Radiodense Contrast Medium after Perineural Injection of the Palmar Digital Nerves
Authors: Nagy A. , Malton R.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Limited information exists on distribution of local anaesthetic solution following palmar digital nerve blocks.

Objectives

To demonstrate potential distribution of local anaesthetic solution following perineural injection of the palmar digital nerves using 2 different volumes of contrast medium and 2 different injection sites.

Study design

Experimental.

Methods

Twelve mature horses were used. Perineural injection of the palmar digital nerves were performed at the level of or 2 cm proximal to the proximal aspect of the ipsilateral ungular cartilage, using 1.5 or 2.5 ml radiodense contrast medium. In total 96 injections were performed. Four standard radiographic views of the pastern were obtained immediately after injections and 10 and 20 min later. Images were analysed subjectively and objectively.

Results

After distal injections, the contrast medium was more localised around the injection site; after proximal injections the contrast patch had greater proximal‐distal length. The greatest proximal diffusion was to 31.7% of the length of the proximal phalanx (from distal) after distal injections and to 70% after proximal injections. The larger volume resulted in significantly greater proximal diffusion than the smaller volume at the distal, but not at the proximal injection site (P<0.01). There was significant proximal diffusion with time after proximal and distal injections (P<0.01). In most limbs numerous radiopaque lines of various thickness extended proximally from the contrast patches; subjectively, their number and thickness were greater at the distal injection site.

Conclusions

Palmar digital nerve blocks at the level of the ungular cartilage using ≤2.5 ml local anaesthetic solution may improve proximal interphalangeal joint and pastern region pain. If using a more proximal site, distal fetlock region pain may be improved. Due to diffusion into lymphatic vessels, too small a volume at the distal injection site may not provide sufficient analgesia.

Ethical animal research: Written consent had been obtained from a representative of the horses' owner prior to starting the study. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
An Epidemiological Investigation of the Aid of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Determining Long‐Term Prognosis for Soundness Following Palmar/Plantar Digital Neurectomy for Chronic Foot Pain
Authors: Wylie C.E. , Payne R.J. , Bathe A.P. , Greet T.R.C. , Head M.J. , Boys‐Smith S.J. , Powell S.E.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Accurate diagnosis of chronic foot pain by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows appropriate case selection for palmar/plantar digital neurectomy (PDN).

Objectives

To report follow‐up for chronic foot pain treated by PDN, with and without MRI diagnosis.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The electronic patient records of all animals that underwent PDN were reviewed. Follow‐up was obtained from owners using a structured postal/telephone questionnaire. Chi squared/Fisher's exact tests or 2‐sample t tests were used, with statistical significance set as P<0.05.

Results

One hundred and nine PDN cases were undertaken. Follow‐up response rate was 72.5%. From these 79 cases, 52 had MRI (MRI+) and 27 did not (MRI−). There was no significant difference in case distribution between the 2 groups: predominantly horses, Warmbloods, geldings, used for full competitions, except MRI+ were younger than MRI− (median 9.99 and 11.71 years respectively, P = 0.004). Median follow‐up time for MRI+ was 31.4 months, and for MRI− was 36.8 months. There was no significant difference in outcome. In total, 78.9% MRI+ achieved their intended use, compared with 73.1% MRI−. For those intended for exercise, 83.7% MRI+ reached a level of exercise, compared with 87.5% MRI−. Median length of exercise maintenance was 25.2 months for MRI+ and 24.0 months for MRI−. For MRI+ there was one suspected and one confirmed neuroma and 4 neuritis cases. Two MRI− animals developed neuritis. Complications requiring euthanasia occurred in 2 MRI− cases: complete rupture of the deep digital flexor tendon in a bilateral forelimb lameness and one previous chronic laminitic with solar prolapse.

Conclusions

These results are comparable with previous reports of 80% of MRI+ returning to previous athletic use for 20 months. Achievement of intended use, length of exercise maintenance and complication rate was similar with and without MRI diagnosis, although both catastrophic complications occurred in animals which did not undergo MRI.

Ethical animal research: Ethical approval obtained: AHT47‐2013. Explicit owner informed consent for inclusion of animals in this study was not stated. Source of funding: C.E. Wylie is funded by The Margaret Giffen Charitable Trust. Competing interests: None declared.
A Retrospective Study of Sagittal Plane Slab Fractures of the Third Carpal Bone in Racing Thoroughbred Horses
Authors: Tallon R.E. , Bladon B.M.
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing study

Sagittal plane slab fractures of the third carpal bone are a recognised injury in the racehorse. One study [1] reported 32 horses with sagittal fractures, 69% raced again. Surgical management appeared beneficial, with all horses that underwent inter‐fragmentary compression racing again.

Objectives

To document the success rate following sagittal slab fracture of the third carpal bone in UK‐based racehorses, and to compare conservative and surgical management.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Inclusion criteria were Thoroughbred racehorses with a simple sagittal slab fracture of the third carpal bone. Exclusion criteria were comminuted fractures, radial carpal bone fractures and short incomplete linear lucencies. Fractures were classified as complete, incomplete or uncertain. Time from injury to next race was recorded. Success rates were compared by Fisher's exact test.

Results

Forty horses were identified. Two were subjected to euthanasia and 3 have <6 months follow‐up. Eleven were managed nonsurgically of which 4 (36%) were complete (5 uncertain) and 7 (64%) raced, 154–508 days following injury (median 242 days). Twenty‐seven horses underwent surgery to place a single 3.5 mm (n = 26) or 4.5 mm (n = 1) lag screw under arthroscopic guidance, of which 18 (67%) were complete. Thirteen (48%) raced again 147–711 days following surgery (median 256 days) P = 0.48. Of 23 horses with complete fractures 13 (57%) raced again, compared with 5/15 (33%) horses with incomplete fractures P = 0.2. Of horses with complete fractures, 10/18 (55%) underwent surgery and raced again compared to 3/4 (75%) horses managed conservatively P = 0.62.

Conclusions

The results confirm that the prognosis for athletic function is favourable but do not suggest that surgery is beneficial, or necessary for complete fractures. The numbers managed conservatively are small and it was not clear radiographically if the fracture was complete in 5/11 horses.

Ethical animal research: Research ethics committee oversight not currently required by this conference: retrospective study of clinical records. Explicit owner informed consent for inclusion of animals in this study was not stated. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.