bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Discourse on Social Cohesion in Relation to Innovation through the Vocabulary of European Commission Communications
Authors: Villalba Ernesto
Published: October 2008

After the relaunch of the Lisbon Strategy, innovation has become one of the main areas of interest in the European Union (EU). In general terms, innovation is always seen as a driver of economic growth and a necessary element to achieve the strategic goal set by the EU in 2000 of becoming the most competitive knowledge-based economy. The strategic goal also encompasses the so-called ‘European Social Model’, in which greater social cohesion should be achieved. The article explores European communication documents related to innovation to determine what role they give to social cohesion. The article is framed within the Centre for Research on Lifelong Learning's project, ‘Education for Innovation and Innovation for Education’, which explores the relationship between education and innovation. The article hypothesises that the concept of lifelong learning is instrumental in connecting innovation and social cohesion. The results of the content analysis show that the connection exists in policy documents, but it is limited.
Targeting Resources to Students with Special Educational Needs: National Differences in Policy and Practice
Authors: Deluca Marcella , Stillings Cara
Published: October 2008

Multiple policy strategies exist to promote equity and inclusion in education and training systems. Across countries, the provision of additional resources to students with special educational needs is a common strategy; previous research indicates that providing extra resources to students with special educational needs can help those students make progress in schools. The purpose of this article is threefold: first, it will discuss the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) tripartite categorisation system for describing how different countries serve and differentiate between students with diverse special needs. The authors rely upon the OECD's work in an attempt to characterise the international special needs student population and to synthesise some of the progress that has been made toward understanding what education for students with disabilities, learning difficulties, and disadvantages looks like. Next, the article presents new lenses for viewing policies that target additional resources to disadvantaged youth. The authors intend for the lenses proposed to facilitate more fruitful international comparisons. Finally, the article will discuss the challenges inherent to making such comparisons and will conclude with suggestions for addressing those challenges.
The Politics of Education Policy Making and Policy Research in Europe: Areas for Debate and Development
Authors: Keating Avril
Published: October 2008

This article concludes the issue, and reflects upon the main themes that unite the various contributions, namely the evolution of educational and legal competency; the complexity of European Union educational governance; the challenges of measuring and developing indicators for education; and the role of social justice agendas in EU education policy. This article also locates the issue within the burgeoning field of European education policy studies, and considers future avenues for research and areas for theoretical and methodological development. These include better tools for measuring the processes of learning, as well as better models for mapping the processes of policymaking.
Effect of inhalation of isoflurane at end-tidal concentrations greater than, equal to, and less than the minimum anesthetic concentration on bispectral index in chickens
Authors: Martin-Jurado Olga , Vogt Rainer , Kutter Annette P. N. , Bettschart-Wolfensberger Regula , Hatt Jean-Michel
Published: October 2008

Objective—To determine the effect of inhalation of isoflurane at end-tidal concentrations greater than, equal to, and less than the minimum anesthetic concentration (MAC) on bispectral index (BIS) in chickens.

Animals—10 chickens.

Procedures—For each chicken, the individual MAC of isoflurane was determined by use of the toe-pinch method. After a 1-week interval, chickens were anesthetized with isoflurane at concentrations 1.75, 1.50, 1.25, 1.00, and 0.75 times their individual MAC (administered from higher to lower concentrations). At each MAC multiple, a toe pinch was performed and BIS was assessed and correlated with heart rate, blood pressure, and an awareness score (derived by use of a visual analogue scale).

Results—Among the chickens, mean ± SD MAC of isoflurane was 1.15 ± 0.20%. Burst suppression was detected at every MAC multiple. The BIS and awareness score were correlated directly with each other and changed inversely with increasing isoflurane concentration. Median (range) BIS values during anesthesia at 1.75, 1.50, 1.25, 1.00, and 0.75 MAC of isoflurane were 25 (15 to 35), 35 (25 to 45), 35 (20 to 50), 40 (25 to 55), and 50 (35 to 65), respectively. Median BIS value at extubation was 70 ± 9. Values of BIS correlated with blood pressure, but not with heart rate. Blood pressure changed with end-tidal isoflurane concentrations, whereas heart rate did not.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Assessment of BIS can be used to monitor the electrical activity of the brain and the degree of unconsciousness in chickens during isoflurane anesthesia.
Hemodynamic and serum biochemical alterations associated with intravenous administration of three types of contrast media in anesthetized cats
Authors: Pollard Rachel E. , Puchalski Sarah M. , Pascoe Peter J.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To determine the incidence and type of alterations in heart rate (HR), peak systolic blood pressure (PSBP), and serum biochemical variables (serum total bilirubin, BUN, and creatinine concentrations) associated with IV administration of ionic-iodinated contrast (IIC), nonionic-iodinated contrast (NIC), and gadolinium (GD) contrast media in anesthetized cats.

Animals—220 anesthetized cats undergoing cross-sectional imaging.

Procedures—HR and PSBP were recorded at 5-minute intervals for 20 minutes for untreated control cats and cats that received IIC, NIC, or GD contrast medium. The development of HR < 100 beats/min or > 200 beats/min that included a ≥ 20% change from baseline was considered a response. The development of PSBP of < 90 mm Hg or > 170 mm Hg that included a ≥ 20% change from baseline was considered a response. Pre- and postcontrast serum biochemical values were recorded.

Results—Of cats receiving IIC medium, 2% (1/60) had a response in HR at ≥ 1 time point. Of cats receiving IIC medium, 7% (4/60) had a response in PSBP. None of the cats receiving NIC medium had a response in HR; 2 of 12 had a response in PSBP. Of cats receiving GD contrast medium, 6% (5/83) had a response in HR and 8% (7/83) had a response in PSBP. None of the control cats had a response in HR or PSBP. No serum biochemical alterations were observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—IV administration of iodine and GD contrast media in anesthetized cats was associated with changes in HR and PSBP.
Evaluation of lymphocyte apoptosis in dogs with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Dandrieux Julien R. , Bornand Valérie F. , Doherr Marcus G. , Kano Rui , Zurbriggen Andreas , Burgener Iwan A.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To determine whether lymphocyte apoptosis in intestinal mucosae is more common in healthy dogs than dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and whether numbers of apoptotic cells increase after successful treatment of affected dogs.

Animals—8 dogs with IBD (IBD dogs) and 8 healthy control dogs.

Procedures—Biopsy specimens of the duodenum and colon were obtained via endoscopy from dogs with IBD before and after 10 weeks of standard treatment and compared with specimens obtained from control dogs. Expression of activated caspase 3 (Casp3), caspase-cleaved fragment p85 from poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), and B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) was measured in the duodenal (villous tip and base) and colonic mucosae.

Results—Expression of Casp3 was greater in the duodenal villous tips of control dogs, compared with expression in similar tissues from dogs with IBD before or after treatment. Despite clinical improvement of dogs with IBD, expression of Casp3 did not increase after treatment. Expression of PARP did not differ between groups at any time point. Expression of Bcl-2 was greater at all 3 tissue sites in control dogs, compared with expression at the same sites in dogs with IBD. Furthermore, Bcl-2 expression in duodenal villous tips was higher in dogs with IBD after treatment but was not higher elsewhere. In control dogs, expression patterns for all 3 markers were similar between sites (villous tip > villous base > colon).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Expression of Casp3 in lymphocytes in duodenal villous tips was significantly reduced in dogs with IBD, compared with expression in healthy dogs, but no increase was detected following successful treatment of IBD. Increased expression of Bcl-2 may be a potential marker of the success of treatment.
Exploratory spatial data analysis of regional seroprevalence of antibodies against epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus in cattle from Illinois and Indiana
Authors: Boyer Tim C. , Ward Michael P. , Wallace Richard L. , Zhou En-Min , Singer Randall S.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To estimate seroprevalence of antibodies against the serogroup of epizootic hemorrhagic disease viruses (EHDVs) and describe spatial distribution of antibodies against EHDV among cattle herds in Illinois and western Indiana.

Sample Population—9,414 serum samples collected from cattle in 60 herds over 3 transmission seasons.

Procedures—Serum samples were tested for antibodies against EHDV by use of an ELISA. Seroprevalence for 4 zones covering the length of Illinois and parts of Indiana were estimated. A multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression model with a random effect for herd was used to estimate seropositive risk for zone (1 through 4), age (yearling, adult), herd type (beef, dairy), transmission season (2000 to 2002), and zone by year interaction. Isopleth maps of seroprevalence at the herd level were produced.

Results—Antibodies against EHDV were detected in 1,110 (11.8%) samples. Estimated seroprevalence in 2000, 2001, and 2002 was 15.3%, 13.4%, and 5.2%, respectively. Seroprevalence was highest in the southernmost zone and lowest in the northernmost zone, but risk of seropositivity for EHDV among and within zones varied by year. Clusters of high seroprevalence in the south, low seroprevalence in the north, and outliers of high and low seroprevalence were detected. Risk mapping revealed areas of higher seroprevalence extending northward along the western and eastern ends of the study region.

Conclusions—Seroprevalence of antibodies against EHDV in cattle was higher in the south than north; however, local complexities existed that were not observed in a serosurvey of antibodies against bluetongue virus from the same cattle population.
Identification of quantitative trait loci for osteoarthritis of hip joints in dogs
Authors: Mateescu Raluca G. , Burton-Wurster Nancy I. , Tsai Kate , Phavaphutanon Janjira , Zhang Zhiwu , Murphy Keith E. , Lust George , Todhunter Rory J.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with osteoarthritis (OA) of hip joints of dogs by use of a whole-genome microsatellite scan.

Animals—116 founder, backcross, F1, and F2 dogs from a crossbred pedigree.

Procedures—Necropsy scores and an optimized set of 342 microsatellite markers were used for interval mapping by means of a combined backcross and F2 design module from an online statistical program. Breed and sex were included in the model as fixed effects. Age of dog at necropsy and body weight at 8 months of age were also included in the model as covariates. The chromosomal location at which the highest F score was obtained was considered the best estimate of a QTL position. Chromosome-wide significance thresholds were determined empirically from 10,000 permutations of marker genotypes.

Results—4 chromosomes contained putative QTL for OA of hip joints in dogs at the 5% chromosome-wide significance threshold: chromosomes 5, 18, 23, and 31.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Osteoarthritis of canine hip joints is a complex disease to which many genes and environmental factors contribute. Identification of contributing QTL is a strategy to elucidate the genetic mechanisms that underlie this disease. Refinement of the putative QTL and subsequent candidate gene studies are needed to identify the genes involved in the disease process.
Evaluation of perinuclear anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic autoantibodies as an early marker of protein-losing enteropathy and protein-losing nephropathy in Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers
Authors: Allenspach Karin , Lomas Bethany , Wieland Barbara , Harris Tonya , Pressler Barrak , Mancho Carolina , Lees George E. , Vaden Shelly L.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To evaluate perinuclear anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic autoantibody (pANCA) status in Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers (SCWTs) and SCWT-Beagle crossbred dogs and to correlate pANCA status of dogs with clinicopathologic variables of protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), protein-losing nephropathy (PLN), or both.

Animals—13 SCWTs and 8 SCWT-Beagle crossbred dogs in a research colony and a control group comprising 7 dogs with X-linked hereditary nephropathy and 12 healthy SCWTs > 9 years old.

Procedures—Samples were obtained from dogs in the research colony every 6 months. At each sample-collection time point, serum concentrations of albumin, globulin, creatinine, and urea nitrogen; fecal concentration of α-proteinase inhibitor; and urinary protein-to-creatinine ratios were determined and correlated with pANCA status.

Results—20 of 21 dogs in the research colony had positive results for pANCAs at a minimum of 2 time points, and 18 of 21 dogs had definitive evidence of disease. None of the control dogs had positive results for pANCAs. A positive result for pANCAs was significantly associated with hypoalbuminemia, and pANCAs preceded the onset of hypoalbuminemia on an average of 2.4 years. Sensitivity and specificity for use of pANCAs to predict development of PLE or PLN were 0.95 (95% confidence interval, 0.72 to 1.00) and 0.8 (95% confidence interval, 0.51 to 0.95), respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Most dogs in this study affected with PLE, PLN, or both had positive results for pANCAs before clinicopathologic evidence of disease was detected. Thus, pANCAs may be useful as an early noninvasive test of disease in SCWTs.
Flow cytometric evaluation of multidrug resistance proteins on grossly normal canine nodal lymphocyte membranes
Authors: Schleis Stephanie E. , LeBlanc Amy K. , Neilsen Nancy R. , LeBlanc Casey J.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To demonstrate efficacy of flow cytometric evaluation of expression and activity of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and multidrug resistance–associated protein (MRP) efflux pumps and characterize and correlate their expression and activity in grossly normal canine nodal lymphocytes.

Sample Population—Nodal lymphocytes from 21 clinically normal dogs.

Procedures—Pump expression was assessed by use of fluorescent-labeled mouse antihuman P-gp (C494) and MRP1 (MRPm6) antibodies and expressed as median values (antibody value divided by isotype control value). The P-gp and MRP activities were assessed by measuring cellular retention of rhodamine 123 and 5(6)-carboxyfluorescein diacetate in the absence and presence of inhibitors (verapamil and PSC833 for P-gp, probenecid and MK-571 for MRP). Protein activity was expressed as median fluorescence of cells with inhibitors divided by that without inhibitors.

Results—Expression of P-gp was (mean ± SEM) 50.62 ± 13.39 (n = 21) and that of MRP was 2.16 ± 0.25 (13). Functional activity was 1.27 ± 0.06 (n = 21) for P-gp and both inhibitors and 21.85 ± 4.09 (21) for MRP and both inhibitors. Function and expression were not correlated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Use of flow cytometry effectively assessed P-gp and MRP expression and activity in canine lymphocytes. Optimization of the flow cytometric assay was determined for evaluating activity and expression of these pumps in canine lymphoid cells. Evaluation of expression or activity may offer more meaning when correlated with clinical outcome of dogs with lymphoproliferative diseases. Cell overexpression of P-gp and MRP can convey drug resistance.
Oral bioavailability of etoposide after administration of a single dose to tumor-bearing dogs
Authors: Flory Andrea B. , Rassnick Kenneth M. , Balkman Cheryl E. , Kiselow Michael A. , Autio Karoliina , Beaulieu Bernard B. , Lewis Lionel D.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To characterize oral bioavailability and pharmacokinetic disposition of etoposide when the IV formulation was administered orally to dogs.

Animals—8 tumor-bearing dogs.

Procedures—An open-label, single-dose, 2-way crossover study was conducted. Dogs were randomly assigned to initially receive a single dose of etoposide (50 mg/m2) IV or PO. A second dose was administered via the alternate route 3 to 7 days later. Medications were administered before IV administration of etoposide to prevent hypersensitivity reactions. Oral administration of etoposide was prepared by reconstituting the parenteral formulation with 0.9% NaCl solution and further diluting the reconstituted mixture 1:1 with a sweetening agent. Plasma samples were obtained after both treatments. Etoposide concentrations were measured with a high-performance liquid chromatography assay, and plasma etoposide concentration–time profiles were analyzed by use of noncompartmental methods.

Results—4 dogs had hypersensitivity reactions during IV administration of etoposide. No adverse effects were detected after oral administration. Plasma etoposide concentrations were undetectable in 2 dogs after oral administration. Oral administration of etoposide resulted in significantly lower values for the maximum plasma concentration and the area under the plasma etoposide concentration-versus-time curve, compared with results for IV administration. Oral bioavailability of etoposide was low (median, 13.4%) and highly variable among dogs (range, 5.7% to 57.3%).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Vehicle-related toxicosis can limit the IV administration of etoposide in dogs. The parenteral formulation of etoposide can be safely administered orally to dogs, but routine use was not supported because of low and variable oral bioavailability in this study.
Novel variations and loss of heterozygosity of BRCA2 identified in a dog with mammary tumors
Authors: Yoshikawa Yasunaga , Morimatsu Masami , Ochiai Kazuhiko , Nagano Masashi , Tomioka Yukiko , Sasaki Nobuo , Hashizume Kazuyoshi , Iwanaga Toshihiko
Published: October 2008

Objective—To establish novel polymorphic markers for analysis of loss of heterozygosity (LOH), so as to study the possible involvement of BRCA2 in mammary tumors obtained from dogs.

Sample Population—Blood samples, mammary gland specimens, or mammary tumors from 3 tumor-bearing dogs and 10 tumor-free dogs.

Procedures—Nucleotide sequence analysis was performed with a DNA autosequencer. Loss of heterozygosity analysis was performed for markers established in the present study. The expression level of canine BRCA2 was quantified by real-time PCR analysis.

Results—3 novel microsatellite markers with high heterozygosity rates (> 50%) were established, and the previously reported marker for canine BRCA2 gene locus was improved. These markers were used for the analysis of DNA from formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded samples. By use of these markers, LOH in canine BRCA2 was identified as a result of recombination. In mammary tumor DNA that corresponded to the LOH-positive dog, the level of canine BRCA2 expression was decreased compared with that of nonneoplastic mammary gland tissue; the open reading frame contained 4 missense variations, 1 insertion variation, and 1 silent variation, some of which were localized to functional domains.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—3 novel polymorphic markers were developed for LOH analysis of canine BRCA2 and identified a dog with LOH with some variations in the functional domains. These markers could be useful for assessing the relevance of BRCA2 variation in mammary tumors of dogs.
Characterization and prevalence of cataracts in Labrador Retrievers in The Netherlands
Authors: Kraijer-Huver Ingrid M. G. , Gubbels Ed J. , Scholten Janneke , Djajadiningrat-Laanen Sylvia C. , Boevé Michael H. , Stades Frans C.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To assess the prevalence and distribution of types of cataract, investigate the effects of selective breeding on cataract development, and identify the relationship between posterior polar cataract and other types of cortical cataracts in Labrador Retrievers in The Netherlands.

Animals—9,017 Labrador Retrievers.

Procedures—Records of 18,283 ophthalmic examinations performed by veterinary ophthalmologists from 1977 through 2005 were reviewed. There were 522 dogs affected by hereditary cataracts in 1 or both eyes without progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and 166 PRA-affected dogs with cataracts. These cataracts were divided into 3 groups: posterior polar (triangular) cataract, extensive immature and mature cataract, and a miscellaneous group. Dogs with PRA were analyzed separately.

Results—From 1980 through 2000, the prevalence of hereditary cataracts was stable at 8%. The prevalence of cataracts in offspring of cataract-affected dogs was significantly increased, compared with the prevalence in offspring of nonaffected dogs. The distribution of types of cataract was significantly different between dogs with primary cataracts and PRA-affected dogs. Dogs with posterior polar (triangular) cataracts produced affected offspring with the same distribution of types of cataracts as the entire population of primary cataract–affected dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cataract development in the Labrador Retriever population in The Netherlands appears to be a predominantly genetic disorder. Posterior polar (triangular) cataracts appear to be related to other types of hereditary cataract. Although there is no conclusive evidence, it seems valid to continue exclusion of all Labrador Retrievers affected by any type of primary cataract from breeding.
Evaluation of matrix metalloproteinase concentrations in precorneal tear film from dogs with Pseudomonas aeruginosa–associated keratitis
Authors: Wang Li , Pan Qingshan , Xue Qin , Cui Jun , Qi Changming
Published: October 2008

Objective—To evaluate the changes in concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 in the precorneal tear film of dogs with Pseudomonas aeruginosa–associated keratitis during corneal healing and stromal remodeling.

Animals—10 dogs with unilateral P aeruginosa–associated keratitis and 10 clinically normal dogs.

Procedures—Precorneal tear film samples were collected from both eyes of 10 dogs with unilateral P aeruginosa–associated keratitis on the day of admission to the hospital and then at various time points until complete healing of the cornea was achieved. Precorneal tear film samples were also collected from both eyes of 10 clinically normal adult dogs (control group). Concentrations of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in precorneal tear film samples from each group were determined via gelatin zymography for comparison.

Results—The proteolytic processes in the ulcerated eyes decreased as corneal healing progressed. On the day of admission, concentrations of latent and active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in ulcerated eyes were significantly higher than values in the contralateral unaffected eyes in dogs with P aeruginosa–associated keratitis; concentrations of latent MMP-2 and MMP-9 were also greater than control group values. Concentrations of latent and active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the healed eyes of dogs with P aeruginosa–associated keratitis were significantly lower than concentrations in the ulcerated eyes on the day of admission.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that reduction of precorneal tear film concentrations of MMPs by use of proteinase inhibitors may be effective in the treatment of dogs with P aeruginosa–associated keratitis.
Effects of intravenous administration of two volumes of calcium solution on plasma ionized calcium concentration and recovery from naturally occurring hypocalcemia in lactating dairy cows
Authors: Doze Johanna G. , Donders Rogier , van der Kolk Johannes H.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To compare the effects of administration of 2 volumes of a calcium solution (calcium oxide and calcium gluconate) on plasma ionized calcium concentration (PICaC) and clinical recovery from naturally occurring hypocalcemia (NOHC; milk fever) in lactating dairy cows.

Animals—123 cows with NOHC (PICaC < 0.95 mmol/L [3.81 mg/dL]) and 20 clinically normal control cows.

Procedures—Affected cows were treated IV once or repeatedly with 450 (n = 56) or 750 mL (67) of calcium solution (1.65 g of calcium/100 mL) until clinical recovery was achieved. The PICaC was assessed 48 hours after the first treatment or after the treatment that achieved clinical recovery. Biochemical recovery was defined as PICaC ≥ 0.95 mmol/L. Plasma from control cows was used for PICaC reference range determination. Plasma samples from both groups were assessed after storage for 20 days at 20°C.

Results—The PICaC reference range derived from blood collected in tubes containing lithium heparin was 1.02 to 1.29 mmol/L (4.09 to 5.17 mg/dL). Following storage, plasma samples were suitable for PICaC assessment. All cows treated with ≥ 1 volume of 450 and 750 mL of calcium solution recovered clinically; however, 31 of 83 (37%) evaluated cows were not biochemically recovered at 48 hours following treatment. Only cows with PICaC < 0.48 mmol/L (1.92 mg/dL) before the first treatment had to be treated ≥ 3 times.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results did not support the need to increase the administered volume of calcium solution from 450 to 750 mL for treatment of NOHC in dairy cows.
Safety and efficacy of an ocular insert for apomorphine-induced emesis in dogs
Authors: Cote Dennis D. , Collins David M. , Burczynski Frank J.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To evaluate the safety and efficacy of an ocular insert designed to provide controlled release of apomorphine for the induction of emesis in dogs.

Animals—5,001 dogs treated with ocular apomorphine inserts and 32 dogs treated with IV administration of apomorphine.

Procedures—Data collected on a case report form included breed, body weight, time to emesis after placement of the insert, and any information available regarding the nature of the toxicosis and clinical signs. A list of potential adverse effects was provided, and attending clinicians graded their occurrence by use of a subjective scale. Similar report forms were used for dogs that received apomorphine IV. Treatment was considered successful if emesis occurred within 15 minutes of administration. Safety was assessed by evaluation of the frequency and severity of adverse effects.

Results—For the ocular insert and IV injection groups, the success rates were 83.5% and 90.6% respectively, and were not significantly different. Adverse effects were more frequent in the IV group, whereas ocular irritation was most frequent in the insert group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Overall, the ocular inserts provided an alternative to parenteral administration of apomorphine with comparable efficacy and a lower prevalence of adverse effects.
A focus group study of veterinarians' and pet owners' perceptions of veterinarian-client communication in companion animal practice
Authors: Coe Jason B. , Adams Cindy L. , Bonnett Brenda N.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To compare veterinarians' and pet owners' perceptions of client expectations with respect to veterinarian-client communication and to identify related barriers and challenges to communication.

Design—Qualitative study based on focus group interviews.

Participants—6 pet owner focus groups (32 owners) and 4 veterinarian focus groups (24 companion animal veterinarians).

Procedures—Independent focus group sessions were conducted with standardized open-ended questions and follow-up probes. Content analysis was performed on transcripts of the focus group discussions.

Results—Five themes related to veterinarian-client communication were identified: educating clients (ie, explaining important information, providing information up front, and providing information in various forms), providing choices (ie, providing pet owners with a range of options, being respectful of owners' decisions, and working in partnership with owners), using 2-way communication (ie, using language clients understand, listening to what clients have to say, and asking the right questions), breakdowns in communication that affected the client's experience (ie, owners feeling misinformed, that they had not been given all options, and that their concerns had not been heard), and challenges veterinarians encountered when communicating with clients (ie, monetary concerns, client misinformation, involvement of > 1 client, and time limitations).

Conclusions—Results suggested that several factors are involved in providing effective veterinarian-client communication and that breakdowns in communication can have an adverse effect on the veterinarian-client relationship.
Microbial culture of blood samples and serologic testing for bartonellosis in cats with chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Berryessa Nicolas A. , Johnson Lynelle R. , Kasten Rick W. , Chomel Bruno B.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To assess the role of Bartonella spp in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) by determining detection rates for the organism by serologic testing and microbial culture of blood samples for Bartonella spp in cats with CRS and control cats (cats with other nasal diseases, cats with systemic illnesses, and healthy cats).

Design—Prospective case-control study.

Animals—19 cats with CRS, 10 cats with other nasal diseases, 15 cats with systemic illness, and 15 healthy cats.

Procedures—Serologic testing for Bartonella clarridgeiae and Bartonella henselae and microbial culture of blood samples were conducted in all cats. In cats with CRS and cats with other nasal diseases, a nasal biopsy specimen was submitted, when available, for tissue PCR assay to detect Bartonella spp.

Results—9 of 19 cats with CRS had positive results for serologic testing for 1 or both Bartonella spp; whereas, 4 of 10 cats with other nasal diseases, 2 of 15 cats with systemic diseases, and 4 of 15 healthy cats had positive results for serologic testing to detect Bartonella spp. These values did not differ significantly among groups. Microbial culture of blood samples yielded B henselae in 1 cat with a nasopharyngeal abscess. The PCR assay for Bartonella spp in nasal tissues yielded negative results for 9 of 9 cats with CRS and 5 of 5 cats with other nasal diseases.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A role for Bartonella spp in the pathogenesis of CRS in cats was not supported by results of this study.
Quantification of the association between intervertebral disk calcification and disk herniation in Dachshunds
Authors: Jensen Vibeke F. , Beck Sarah , Christensen Knud A. , Arnbjerg Jens
Published: October 2008

Objective—To quantify the association between intervertebral disk calcification and disk herniation in Dachshunds.

Design—Longitudinal study.

Animals—61 Dachshunds that had been radiographically screened for calcification of intervertebral disks at 2 years of age in other studies. Thirty-seven of the dogs had survived to the time of the present study and were ≥ 8 years of age; 24 others had not survived.

Procedures—Radiographic examination of 36 surviving dogs was performed, and information on occurrence of disk calcification at 2 years of age were obtained from records of all 61 Dachshunds. Information on occurrence of disk herniation between 2 and 8 years of age was obtained from owners via questionnaire. Associations between numbers of calcified disks and disk herniation were analyzed via maximum likelihood logistic regression.

Results—Disk calcification at 2 years of age was a significant predictor of clinical disk herniation (odds ratio per calcified disk, 1.42; 95% confidence interval, 1.19 to 1.81). Number of calcified disks in the full vertebral column was a better predictor than number of calcified disks between vertebrae T10 and L3. Numbers of calcified disks at ≥ 8 years of age and at 2 years of age were significantly correlated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Number of calcified disks at 2 years of age was a good predictor of clinical disk herniation in Dachshunds. Because of the high heritability of disk calcification, it is possible that an effective reduction in occurrence of severe disk herniation in Dachshunds could be obtained by selective breeding against high numbers of calcified disks at 2 years of age.
Results of the Confidential Enquiry into Perioperative Small Animal Fatalities regarding risk factors for anesthetic-related death in dogs
Authors: Brodbelt David C. , Pfeiffer Dirk U. , Young Lesley E. , Wood James L. N.
Published: October 2008

Objective—To identify major risk factors associated with anesthetic-related death in dogs.

Design—Case-control study.

Animals—148 dogs that died or were euthanized within 48 hours after undergoing anesthesia or sedation and for which anesthesia could not be reasonably excluded as a contributory factor (cases) and 487 control dogs that did not die within 48 hours after undergoing anesthesia or sedation (controls).

Procedures—Details of patient characteristics, preoperative evaluation and preparation, procedure, anesthetic and sedative agents used, monitoring, postoperative management, and personnel involved were recorded. Mixed-effects logistic regression modeling was used to identify factors associated with anesthetic-related death.

Results—An increase in physical status grade, urgency of the procedure, age, or intended duration of the procedure; a decrease in body weight; anesthesia for a major versus a minor procedure; and use of injectable agents for anesthetic induction and halothane for maintenance or use of inhalant anesthetics alone (compared with use of injectable agents for induction and isoflurane for maintenance) were associated with increased odds of anesthetic-related death.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The results suggested that specific factors could be associated with increased odds of anesthetic-related death in dogs. Knowledge of these factors should aid the preoperative assessment and perioperative management of dogs undergoing anesthesia and sedation.
Diagnosis and treatment of blastomycosis affecting the nose and nasopharynx of a dog
Authors: Wehner Astrid , Crochik Sonia , Howerth Elizabeth W. , Koenig Amie
Published: October 2008

Case Description—A 2-year-old 38.9-kg (85.58-lb) sexually intact male German Shepherd Dog was examined because of a 4-month history of severe nasal swelling and nasal mucosa congestion. The signs were slowly progressive.

Clinical Findings—Physical examination revealed that the dorsal aspect of the dog's nose was swollen and hard. Mucous membranes in both nostrils were hyperemic and edematous. Diagnostic investigation revealed severe nasal osteolysis and pyogranulomatous rhinitis and nasopharyngitis attributable to blastomycosis.

Treatment and Outcome—Oral administration of itraconazole was initiated (5 mg/kg [2.27 mg/lb], q 12 h for 5 days and then q 24 h). After a treatment period of 3 months, the nose had regained its normal appearance. After 5 months of treatment, the Blastomyces infection was eliminated as confirmed by results of rhinoscopy and biopsy specimen examination. No relapse was evident within 1 year after discontinuation of treatment.

Clinical Relevance—In dogs, nasal and nasopharyngeal blastomycosis can result in severe osteolysis of the nasal bone. Resolution of disease can be achieved with oral administration of itraconazole for a period of at least 5 months.
The Secret Life of Fat: What are Fat Cells Doing for the Regulation of Metabolism
Authors: Tzontcheva Anna
Published: October 2008

The Secret Life of Fat: What are Fat Cells Doing for the Regulation of Metabolism

Adipose tissue has long been regarded as an organ the sole purpose of which was to store excess energy as triglycerides, and release energy as free fatty acids, which itself is an essential self-defense system for survival during starvation. This point of view has now changed, fat tissue has emerged as an endocrine and secretory organ affecting more than one metabolic pathway. Its major endocrine function is secreting several hormones, notably leptin and adiponectin. Also, adipose tissue releases adipo-kines involved in inflammation and hemostasis: growth factors (TNFα, transforming growth factor-beta, nerve growth factor, VEGF), cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10), chemokines (IL-8), acute-phase proteins (haptoglobin, serum amyloid A) and prothrombotic factor (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1). This review aims to present some of the recent topics of selected adipokine research that may be of particular importance.
Association Between Sharp's Radiographic Index and Acute Phase Reactants in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kafeđiska Irena , Spasovski Dejan , Gruev Todor , Marina Nada , Grličkov Mane , Čalovski Jordan , Sotirova Tatjana , Karanfilski Oliver , Bogdanovska Stefka
Published: October 2008

Association Between Sharp's Radiographic Index and Acute Phase Reactants in Rheumatoid Arthritis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by hand radiography (Sharp's radiographic index), and assessment of acute phase reactants - erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP) and rheumatoid factor (RF), and to determine their value as prognostic markers for disease outcome in patients with early RA treated with disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)-Methotrexate (MTH); to register and quantify clinical, radiographic and laboratorial differences in certain time intervals in a group of patients treated with immunomodulation therapy with MTH; to determine which of the acute phase reactants would be the most useful marker for evaluation of disease activity in long-term follow-up in RA patients; to select high-risk groups with aggressive course of disease, in order to emphasize the necessity of early and aggressive treatment. Thirty patients with early RA (disease evolution up to 1 year) were evaluated in several time intervals. The score of the Sharp's index showed greater radiographic progression of the joint damage of hands in time intervals between 0-time and 12 months (p=0.0167) and between 0-time and 18 months (p=0.0089). Statistical analysis showed differences in values of CRP in four time intervals (p=0.00002). Considering CRP, there were statistically significant differences among mean values in four time intervals (p=0.0428) (standard deviations showed greater variations). There were no statistically significant differences among mean values of RF in four time intervals (p=0.573). At 0-time in 3 (10%) patients progression of the Sharp's index was found, after 6 months in 13 (39%) patients, while after 12 and 18 months progression of the Sharp's index was found in an identical number of patients, 15 (50%). In most patients high values of CRP and RF were found. Progression of the radiographic damage is especially expressed in patients with high values of ESR, CRP, RF and existence of previous erosions of hands, which are predictors for aggressive course of disease. CRP is the most useful marker for the evaluation of RA activity in the long-term followup of RA patients.
Apoprotein(A) Isoforms and Plasma LP(A) Concentration in Members of Four Families
Authors: Labudovik Danica , Tosheska Katerina , Alabakovska Sonja , Bogdanska Jasna , Todorova Bojana
Published: October 2008

Apoprotein(A) Isoforms and Plasma LP(A) Concentration in Members of Four Families

Apoprotein(a) is a multikringle protein which shows a genetically inherited size polymorphism. The APO(a) gene is located at the telomeric region of chromosome 6q2.6-q 2.7. Apo(a) size polymorphism is a major determinant of Lp(a) levels. The aim of this study is to describe the influence of apo(a) size polymorphism on the plasma Lp(a) levels in the members of four families. K3EDTA plasma was obtained from every subject after over-night fast. Apo(a) isoforms were determined by 3-15% SDS-PAGE followed by Western immunoblot technique. Plasma Lp(a) level was de - termined with immunonephelometric method. Every child inherited one isoform from its mother and the other from its father. The children from the first family had Lp(a) levels similar to those measured in their parents. The daughters from the second and fourth family inherited the dominant S3 apo(a) isoform from their mothers and also mother's high Lp(a) levels (0.365 g/L - daughter from the second, and 0.465 g/L and 0.446 g/L - daughter from the fourth family respectively). The elder daughter from the third family, carrier of double banded S4S1 apo(a) isoform, had the highest Lp(a) level among the children from all four families. We found out a generation decrease of the Lp(a) level in two families. On the basis of our findings we concluded that the inheritance of the apo(a) isoforms in the members of all four families is in accordance with the simple Mendelian's model and that the apo(a) size polymorphism influences the Lp(a) level in the blood of the examined subjects.
Continuous monitoring of cerebrovascular pressure reactivity in patients with head injury
Authors: Zweifel Christian , Lavinio Andrea , Steiner Luzius A. , Radolovich Danila , Smielewski Peter , Timofeev Ivan , Hiler Magdalena , Balestreri Marcella , Kirkpatrick Peter J. , Pickard John D. , Hutchinson Peter , Czosnyka Marek
Published: October 2008

Object

Cerebrovascular pressure reactivity is the ability of cerebral vessels to respond to changes in transmural pressure. A cerebrovascular pressure reactivity index (PRx) can be determined as the moving correlation coefficient between mean intracranial pressure (ICP) and mean arterial blood pressure.

Methods

The authors analyzed a database consisting of 398 patients with head injuries who underwent continuous monitoring of cerebrovascular pressure reactivity. In 298 patients, the PRx was compared with a transcranial Doppler ultrasonography assessment of cerebrovascular autoregulation (the mean index [Mx]), in 17 patients with the PET–assessed static rate of autoregulation, and in 22 patients with the cerebral metabolic rate for O2. Patient outcome was assessed 6 months after injury.

Results

There was a positive and significant association between the PRx and Mx (R2 = 0.36, p < 0.001) and with the static rate of autoregulation (R2 = 0.31, p = 0.02). A PRx > 0.35 was associated with a high mortality rate (> 50%). The PRx showed significant deterioration in refractory intracranial hypertension, was correlated with outcome, and was able to differentiate patients with good outcome, moderate disability, severe disability, and death. The graph of PRx compared with cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) indicated a U–shaped curve, suggesting that too low and too high CPP was associated with a disturbance in pressure reactivity. Such an optimal CPP was confirmed in individual cases and a greater difference between current and optimal CPP was associated with worse outcome (for patients who, on average, were treated below optimal CPP [R2 = 0.53, p < 0.001] and for patients whose mean CPP was above optimal CPP [R2 = −0.40, p < 0.05]). Following decompressive craniectomy, pressure reactivity initially worsened (median −0.03 [interquartile range −0.13 to 0.06] to 0.14 [interquartile range 0.12–0.22]; p < 0.01) and improved in the later postoperative course. After therapeutic hypothermia, in 17 (70.8%) of 24 patients in whom rewarming exceeded the brain temperature threshold of 37°C, ICP remained stable, but the average PRx increased to 0.32 (p < 0.0001), indicating significant derangement in cerebrovascular reactivity.

Conclusions

The PRx is a secondary index derived from changes in ICP and arterial blood pressure and can be used as a surrogate marker of cerebrovascular impairment. In view of an autoregulation–guided CPP therapy, a continuous determination of a PRx is feasible, but its value has to be evaluated in a prospective controlled trial.
Levetiracetam versus phenytoin for seizure prophylaxis in severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Jones Kristen E. , Puccio Ava M. , Harshman Kathy J. , Falcione Bonnie , Benedict Neal , Jankowitz Brian T. , Stippler Martina , Fischer Michael , Sauber-Schatz Erin K. , Fabio Anthony , Darby Joseph M. , Okonkwo David O.
Published: October 2008

Object

Current standard of care for patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is prophylactic treatment with phenytoin for 7 days to decrease the risk of early posttraumatic seizures. Phenytoin alters drug metabolism, induces fever, and requires therapeutic-level monitoring. Alternatively, levetiracetam (Keppra) does not require serum monitoring or have significant pharmacokinetic interactions. In the current study, the authors compare the EEG findings in patients receiving phenytoin with those receiving levetiracetam monotherapy for seizure prophylaxis following severe TBI.

Methods

Data were prospectively collected in 32 cases in which patients received levetiracetam for the first 7 days after severe TBI and compared with data from a historical cohort of 41 cases in which patients received phenytoin monotherapy. Patients underwent 1-hour electroencephalographic (EEG) monitoring if they displayed persistent coma, decreased mental status, or clinical signs of seizures. The EEG results were grouped into normal and abnormal findings, with abnormal EEG findings further categorized as seizure activity or seizure tendency.

Results

Fifteen of 32 patients in the levetiracetam group warranted EEG monitoring. In 7 of these 15 cases the results were normal and in 8 abnormal; 1 patient had seizure activity, whereas 7 had seizure tendency. Twelve of 41 patients in the phenytoin group received EEG monitoring, with all results being normal. Patients treated with levetiracetam and phenytoin had equivalent incidence of seizure activity (p = 0.556). Patients receiving levetiracetam had a higher incidence of abnormal EEG findings (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Levetiracetam is as effective as phenytoin in preventing early posttraumatic seizures but is associated with an increased seizure tendency on EEG analysis.
Acute clinical grading in pediatric severe traumatic brain injury and its association with subsequent intracranial pressure, cerebral perfusion pressure, and brain oxygenation
Authors: Figaji Anthony A. , Zwane Eugene , Fieggen A. Graham , Peter Jonathan C. , Leroux Peter D.
Published: October 2008

Object

The goal of this paper was to examine the relationship between methods of acute clinical assessment and measures of secondary cerebral insults in severe traumatic brain injury in children.

Methods

Patients who underwent intracranial pressure (ICP), cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), and brain oxygenation (PbtO2) monitoring and who had an initial Glasgow Coma Scale score, Pediatric Trauma Score, Pediatric Index of Mortality 2 score, and CT classification were evaluated. The relationship between these acute clinical scores and secondary cerebral insult measures, including ICP, CPP, PbtO2, and systemic hypoxia were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

The authors found significant associations between individual acute clinical scores and select physiological markers of secondary injury. However, there was a large amount of variability in these results, and none of the scores evaluated predicted each and every insult. Furthermore, a number of physiological measures were not predicted by any of the scores.

Conclusions

Although they may guide initial treatment, grading systems used to classify initial injury severity appear to have a limited value in predicting who is at risk for secondary cerebral insults.