bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synchronization of Ovulation and Fixed Time Intrauterine Insemination in Ewes
Authors: Deligiannis C , Valasi I , Rekkas CA , Goulas P , Theodosiadou E , Lainas T , Amiridis GS
Published: January 2005

Contents

A novel method for oestrus–ovulation synchronization in sheep followed by fixed time insemination is presented herewith. Mature dry ewes (n = 28) of Karagouniko breed being at an unknown stage of the oestrous cycle, were used during the middle of breeding season. The treatment protocol consisted of an initial administration of a GnRH analogue followed 5 days later by a prostaglandin F2α injection. Thirty‐six hours later a second GnRH injection was administered to synchronize ovulation, and laparoscopic intrauterine insemination was performed 12–14 h later. Three days after insemination, fertile rams were introduced into the flock twice daily and oestrus‐mating detection was carried out. For progesterone (P4) determination, blood samples were collected on alternate days, starting 2 days before the first GnRH injection and continuing for 17 days after insemination. An additional sample was taken on the day of insemination. Pregnancy diagnosis was carried out by trans‐abdominal ultrasonography. Fourteen ewes (50%) conceived at insemination and maintained pregnancy; from the remainder 14 ewes 10 became pregnant at natural service, while four, although they mated at least two to three times, failed to conceive. In response to the first GnRH, P4 concentration increased at higher levels in ewes that conceived at AI compared with those that failed to conceive (47.54 and 22.44%, respectively; p < 0.05). Significant differences (p < 0.05) in mean P4 concentration between pregnant and non‐pregnant animals were detected 1 day before AI (0.17 ± 0.06 and 0.26 ± 0.14 ng/ml, respectively) on the day of AI (0.15 ± 0.04 and 0.24 ± 0.08 ng/ml, respectively) as well as 9 and 11 days thereafter (0.48 ± 0.12 and 0.38 ± 0.12 ng/ml; 0.68 ± 0.14 and 0.50 ± 0.18 ng/ml, respectively). These results indicate that using the proposed protocol, an acceptable conception rate can be achieved which could be further improved by modifying the time intervals between interventions.
Addition of Recombinant Human Growth Hormone to In Vitro Maturation Medium of Bovine Oocytes
Authors: Pozzobon SE , Lagares MA , Brum DS , Leivas FG , Rubin MIB
Published: January 2005

Contents

The aim of this study was to increase the bovine embryonic development rate, adding recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) to maturation medium of bovine oocytes. Oocytes were matured for 24 h in TCM 199 Earle's salts and five treatments were developed: T1, 0.01 IU/ml of recombinant human follicle stimulating hormone (rhFSH); T2, 0.01 IU/ml of rhFSH + 100 ng/ml of rhGH; T3, 0.01 IU/ml of rhFSH + 1000 ng/ml of rhGH; T4, 100 ng/ml of rhGH; and T5, 1000 ng/ml of rhGH at 39°C and 5% of CO2 in air and saturated humidity. In vitro fertilization from cumulus–oocyte complexes was conducted in TALP‐Fert medium (18–22 h) and spermatozoa were selected by Percoll gradient. Zygotes were incubated in SOFaaci medium in 5% of CO2 in air, 5% of O2 at 39°C and saturated humidity for 11 days. There was no statistical difference in cleavage rate and embryo production on day 7 and day 9 among treatments. However, the hatching rate increased significantly in the T4 and T5 treatments (11.0 and 12.8%, respectively), compared with the T1 treatment (4.6%) (p < 0.05). Therefore, the rhGH addition to the oocyte maturation medium showed beneficial effects on the hatching rate of in vitro‐produced bovine embryos.
The Activity of Matrix Metalloproteinase‐2 and ‐9 in Serum of Pregnant and Non‐Pregnant Bitches
Authors: Schäfer‐Somi S , Ali Aksoy O , Patzl M , Findik M , Erünal‐Maral N , Beceriklisoy HB , Polat B , Aslan S
Published: January 2005

Contents

The aim of this study was to investigate, whether the activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and ‐9 in the serum of pregnant and non‐pregnant bitches differs significantly. For this purpose, 81 blood samples were taken from pregnant bitches at days 5–13, 15–21, 24–31, 34–40 and 41–50 after mating, and 51 samples from non‐pregnant animals at corresponding times. Relative enzyme activity, calculated as the percentage of serum enzyme activity on enzyme activity in a control sample, was determined with a commercially available assay after activation of serum MMPs with p‐aminophenylmercuric acetate (APMA). In addition, serum oestradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) concentrations were measured with an enzymeimmunoassay (EIA). In the pregnant bitches, at days 5–13 and 15–21 after mating, the mean activity of both MMPs was significantly higher than in non‐pregnant animals (28.5% vs 24.5% and 27.7% vs 22.6%; p < 0.01). Moreover, in the pregnant bitches, significant correlations were detected between the serum enzyme activity and the serum concentrations of E2(−0.900; p < 0.05) and P4(+0.667; p < 0.05).
Associations between Energy Metabolism, LH Pulsatility and First Ovulation in early Lactating Cows
Authors: Jorritsma R , Langendijk P , Kruip TAM , Wensing TH , Noordhuizen JPTM
Published: January 2005

Contents

This study was designed to elucidate associations between energy metabolism and LH pulsatility characteristics in early lactation, and days to first ovulation, in order to explain the relationship between energy balance and fertility observed in epidemiological studies. To this end, 10 multiparous HF cows were monitored during lactation, after the application of two different feeding strategies during the dry period. Days to first ovulation was assessed using blood progesterone measurements and LH pulsatility was measured in 8‐h windows in the third week postpartum. The association between depth of negative energy balance and days to ovulation was confirmed. However, this study does not support the idea that LH pulsatility characteristics in early lactation are predictive for the interval between parturition and first ovulation.
First Established Pregnancies in Mediterranean Italian Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) Following Deposition of Sexed Spermatozoa near the Utero Tubal Junction
Authors: Presicce GA , Verberckmoes S , Senatore EM , Klinc P , Rath D
Published: January 2005

Contents

At the time of AI following Ovsynch protocol, a total of 51 buffaloes were randomly divided in a first group (n = 30) subjected to conventional AI into the uterine body with 20 million non‐sex sorted frozen–thawed spermatozoa, while a second group (n = 21) was inseminated near the utero‐tubal junction (UTJ) ipsilateral to the ovary carrying the preovulatory follicle with 2.5 million live (4 million total) sex‐sorted frozen–thawed spermatozoa. The semen used for flowcytometric sorting was collected and processed on a farm in Italy, and then shipped to a laboratory in Germany. Eleven buffaloes were inseminated with X‐chromosome bearing spermatozoa and 10 with Y‐chromosome bearing spermatozoa. Conception rates after conventional and UTJ inseminations were 43.3% (n = 13) and 42.8% (n = 9) respectively (p = 0.97). Eight of the nine foetuses obtained after insemination with sexed spermatozoa corresponded to the sex as predicted by the cell sorting procedure (five male and four female foetuses by ultrasound vs six male and three female foetuses by cell sorting). In conclusion, for the first time buffalo semen has been successfully subjected to procedures for flowcytometric sperm sorting and freezing. Low doses of sexed spermatozoa have been deposited near the UTJ giving conception rates similar to those of conventional AI with full dose.
Foreign Investment Strategies and Sub‐national Institutions in Emerging Markets: Evidence from Vietnam*
Authors: Meyer Klaus E. , Nguyen Hung Vo
Published: January 2005

ABSTRACT Foreign investors entering emerging markets have to take strategic decisions on where and how to set up operations. These decisions have to accommodate institutional conditions that vary not only between countries, but also within the host economy. We offer a theoretical framework to analyse how institutions in an emerging economy influence entry strategy decisions. On this basis, we analyse the determinants of two key aspects of entry strategy: location and entry mode in Vietnam. We find that sub‐national institutional variables have a significant influence on both dimensions. The availability of scarce resources affects the location of FDI and the likelihood of Greenfield entry. Institutional pressures arising from incumbent state‐owned firms and the domestic market orientation of the investor lead to a preference for joint venture entry.
Country Resource Environments, Firm Capabilities, and Corporate Diversification Strategies*
Authors: Wan William P.
Published: January 2005

ABSTRACTEnvironmental differences among countries are often assumed away in strategy research. In particular, the unique contexts of the emerging economies have not been considered adequately in extant research. I bring country environmental contexts to the foreground and conceptualize various types of economies (developed economies, emerging economies, institution‐driven high growth emerging economies, and factor‐driven high growth emerging economies) as dissimilar types of country resource environments that provide firms with country resources: factors and institutions. To compete successfully, firms will find it more optimal to emphasize appropriate firm capabilities (market capabilities and non‐market capabilities) and corporate diversification strategy (product and international diversification). By integrating insights from institutional economics and resource‐based view, this paper offers a conceptual framework to examine the multifaceted relationships linking firm capabilities and corporate diversification across dissimilar country resource environments.
The Relevance of the Institutional Underpinnings of Porter's Five Forces Framework to Emerging Economies: An Epistemological Analysis
Authors: Narayanan V. K. , Fahey Liam
Published: January 2005

ABSTRACT Using the Toulmin method, we present an epistemological analysis of Porter's Five Forces Framework (FFF) in light of the increasing evidence pertaining to the institutional context in emerging economies. The analysis reveals three key qualifiers in the theoretical structure of FFF – transaction costs, capital flows and laws governing rivalry. Evidence from emerging economies indicates that FFF's assumptions about the qualifiers are not met in these economies. Indeed, firms in these economies adopt strategies not derivable from FFF to tackle their unique institutional contexts. Our Toulmin analysis helps pinpoint the directions for further research in emerging economies. Specifically, the three qualifiers provide a meaningful way of building typologies and taxonomies to accommodate the diversity of institutional contexts and to link them to firm‐level strategies. Our discussion also highlights the need to turn the spotlight on laws governing rivalry, a relatively under‐explored topic in emerging economies, and the effectiveness of different network strategies.
AGOA and Apparel: Who Captures the Tariff Rent in the Presence of Preferential Market Access?
Authors: Olarreaga Marcelo , Özden Çaglar
Published: January 2005

The United States grants preferential (tariff‐ and quota‐free) market access to a list of products from eligible countries in sub‐Saharan Africa through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). We analyse the increase in prices received by apparel exporters who benefited from AGOA preferences. In the presence of competitive markets, export prices should increase as much as the tariff which was previously collected by the US government. We refer to this price increase as the ‘tariff preference rent’ since exporters receive this income as the rent for their preferential status. The results show that exporters receive only one‐third of this rent and smaller exporters receive less than larger and established ones. We then provide evidence that suggests this may be due to the degree of market power enjoyed by US importers when facing African exporters.
Free Trade Areas in East Asia: Discriminatory or Non‐discriminatory?
Authors: Lee Jong‐Wha , Park Innwon
Published: January 2005

The debates on regional trade arrangements in East Asia focus on whether the RTAs can be net trade creating or diverting, and whether they impede multilateral trade liberalisation or not. This paper attempts to answer these questions by quantitatively estimating the economic impact of possible East Asian free trade areas based on a bilateral gravity model, and evaluating the main characteristics of the proposed FTAs. We find that the trade creation effect expected from the proposed East Asian FTAs such as a China‐Japan‐Korea or an ASEAN plus three (China, Japan, Korea) FTA will be significant enough to overwhelm the trade diversion effect. We also judge that East Asian FTAs will likely be a building block for a global free trade.
The EU Anti‐dumping Policy Towards Russia and China: Product Quality and the Choice of an Analogue Country
Authors: Nielsen Jørgen Ulff‐Møller , Rutkowski Aleksander
Published: January 2005

This paper uses the theory of international trade in vertically differentiated products in order to assess whether the EU has calculated disproportionately high dumping margins in its anti‐dumping policy towards the two non‐market economies (NMEs) Russia and China since 1992. Specifically, the investigation concerns cases in which the level of economic development in and the quality of the products from the chosen analogue country are higher than in the two NMEs. The conclusion drawn here is that, even when the EU chooses analogue countries at a higher level of economic development than Russia and China, the differences in product quality and in the levels of economic development between the dumpers and the analogue countries provide no systematic explanation of the size of dumping margins.
Ripening of Camembert‐type cheese made from caprine milk using calf rennet or kid rennet as coagulant
Authors: O'SULLIVAN NIAMH A , SOUSA MARIA J , O'GRADY‐WALSH DEIRDRE , UNIACKE THÉRESE , KELLY ALAN L , McSWEENEY PAUL L H
Published: January 2005

Camembert‐type cheese was made from caprine milk using either calf rennet or kid ‘Grandine’ rennet as coagulant. The pH of all cheeses increased throughout ripening and levels of pH 4.6‐soluble nitrogen increased from 8.1 to 18.2% of total nitrogen (TN) and from 6.9 to 20% TN for the cheeses made using calf rennet and kid rennet, respectively. Degradation of β‐casein, measured by urea–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and total and free amino acids were greater in the cheese made using kid rennet. Production of peptides, analysed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), was slightly more extensive in the Camembert‐type cheese made using calf rennet as coagulant. In general, a higher degree of proteolysis was found in Camembert‐type cheese made from caprine milk using kid rennet than in cheese made using calf rennet as coagulant.
Turkish kefir and kefir grains: microbial enumeration and electron microscobic observation†
Authors: GUZEL‐SEYDIM ZEYNEP , WYFFELS JENNIFER T , SEYDIM ATIF C , GREENE ANNEL K
Published: January 2005

Microbial populations in kefir and kefir grains were enumerated by plating. Total lactic acid bacteria, lactoccocci, lactobacilli and yeast populations increased during fermentation and increased slightly during cold storage. Kefir grains had a lactic acid bacteria : yeast ratio of 10

9

 : 10

6

. In further studies, kefir grains were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods, which indicated yeast colonization on the surface and middle part of the kefir grain. Three types of lactobacilli (short, long and curved) were noted throughout the grain. Lactococci were not observed under SEM; preparation of kefir grains for SEM may have caused removal of lactococci from the grains.
Production of hard cheese from caprine milk by the use of two types of probiotic cultures as adjuncts
Authors: KALAVROUZIOTI I , HATZIKAMARI M , LITOPOULOU‐TZANETAKI E , TZANETAKIS N
Published: January 2005

Hard cheeses (Kefalotyri‐like) were manufactured from caprine milk with yoghurt as a starter (A), and with its partial replacement with the probiotic adjuncts Lactobacillus rhamnosus LC 705 (B) and/or Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei DC 412 (C). Both adjuncts retarded the growth of enterococci, and the environment in cheese B did not favour the recovery of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on Rogosa agar. However, better recovery of the LAB population on M17 agar from cheeses B and C made with adjuncts was recorded early in ripening, and this was accompanied by a greater decrease in pH. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) of whole‐cell protein demonstrated that cheese C, made with Lb. paracasei ssp. paracasei as adjunct, is a better vehicle for delivery of live probiotic cells (107 cfu/g) to the gastrointestinal tract than cheese B, made with Lb. rhamnosus; the latter did not belong to the predominant microflora of one out of the two B cheeses. Urea‐PAGE electrophoresis results indicated that adjunct lactobacilli enhanced the degradation of both αS‐casein (αS‐CN) and β‐casein (β‐CN). In the fresh cheese, hydrolysis of αS‐CN was more rapid than β‐CN, and the free amino acid content of B and C was higher than in A. Lipolysis products were also higher in B and C than in A as ripening progressed, and the organoleptic characteristics of these cheeses resulted in higher scores, in the order C > B > A. Thus, making Kefalotyri‐like cheese from caprine milk with probiotic lactobacilli, particularly Lb. paracasei ssp. paracasei, as adjunct can be considered an effective way of producing a cheese with a large number of probiotic cells.
The nutrition and health benefits of yoghurt
Authors: MCKINLEY MICHELLE C
Published: January 2005

Yoghurt is one of the most popular fermented milk products worldwide and has gained widespread consumer acceptance as a healthy food. It provides an array of nutrients in significant amounts, in relation to its energy and fat content, making it a nutrient‐dense food. In particular, yoghurt can provide the body with significant amounts of calcium in a bioavailable form. Furthermore, yoghurt has many health benefits beyond the basic nutrition it provides, such as improved lactose tolerance, a possible role in body weight and fat loss, and a variety of health attributes associated with probiotic bacteria.
Texture and microflora of vallagret cheese during maturation
Authors: ARYANA KAYANUSH J , HAQUE ZAHUR Z
Published: January 2005

Vallagret is a unique Jarlsberg‐like cheese that combines characteristics of Cheddar and Swiss cheeses. The objectives of this study were to elucidate the stress and strain behaviour of young (1 week) and mature (20 weeks) vallagret cheese and to enumerate the microflora of young and matured cheeses. The large deformation properties of vallagret cheese were determined using an Instron universal testing machine. Lactococci were enumerated using M17 agar. Lactobacilli and Leuconostoc mesenteroides ssp. cremoris were enumerated on Lactobacillus selective (LBS) agar while the aerobic microorganisms were enumerated using plate count agar. Fracture stress decreased significantly from 0.52 MPa in young cheese to 0.11 MPa in the matured samples and fracture strain decreased significantly from 87% in young cheese to 41% in matured cheese. Aerobic microorganisms and lactococci decreased on maturation while the numbers of lactobacilli and Leuconostoc mesenteroides ssp. cremoris increased over the 20‐week maturation period. Maturation affected the microbial counts of vallagret cheese. On maturation, vallagret cheese became softer and had lowered resistance to fracture.
Determinants and consequences of discrepancies in menstrual and ultrasonographic gestational age estimates
Authors: Morin Isabelle , Morin Lucie , Zhang Xun , Platt Robert W. , Blondel Béatrice , Bréart Gérard , Usher Robert , Kramer Michael S.
Published: January 2005

Objectives  To assess the association between maternal and fetal characteristics and discrepancy between last normal menstrual period and early (<20 weeks) ultrasound‐based gestational age and the association between discrepancies and pregnancy outcomes.

Design  Hospital‐based cohort study.

Setting  Montreal, Canada.

Sample  A total of 46,514 women with both menstrual‐ and early ultrasound‐based gestational age estimates.

Main outcome measures  Positive (last normal menstrual period > early ultrasound, i.e. menstrual‐based gestational age is higher than early ultrasound‐based gestational age, so that the expected date of delivery is earlier with the menstrual‐based gestational age) discrepancies ≥+7 days, mean birthweight, low birthweight, stillbirth and in‐hospital neonatal death.

Results  Multiparous mothers and those with diabetes, small stature or high pre‐pregnancy body mass index were more likely to have positive discrepancies. The proportion of women with discrepancies ≥+7 days was significantly higher among chromosomally malformed and female fetuses. The mean birthweight declined with increasingly positive differences. The risk of low birthweight was significantly higher for positive differences. Associations with fetal growth measures were more plausible with early ultrasound estimates.

Conclusions  Although most discrepancies between last normal menstrual period‐ and early ultrasound‐based gestational age are attributable to errors in menstrual dating, our results suggest that some positive differences reflect early growth restriction.
Proteomic biomarker analysis of amniotic fluid for identification of intra‐amniotic inflammation
Authors: Buhimschi Irina A. , Christner Rob , Buhimschi Catalin S.
Published: January 2005

Background  Intra‐amniotic inflammation is associated with poor neonatal outcome independent of prematurity. We applied proteomic technology (SELDI: surface‐enhanced laser desorption ionisation) to identify the proteomic profile of intra‐amniotic inflammation.

Design  One hundred and four samples of amniotic fluid were analysed. In stage 1, samples from patients with symptoms of preterm labour and known outcomes were tested to identify the characteristic profile for inflammation. We extracted the profile using a novel, stepwise logical approach comparing SELDI tracings from patients who delivered preterm and had intra‐amniotic inflammation in response to infection to the tracings of patients who had symptoms of preterm labour but delivered at term. In stage 2, we applied the algorithm to samples from pregnancies whose outcomes were unknown to the investigators.

Setting  North‐American university in collaboration with Ciphergen field demonstration laboratory.

Sample  One hundred and four samples of human amniotic fluid from transabdominal amniocentesis.

Methods  SELDI (surface‐enhanced laser desorption ionisation) and Mass Restricted analysis, a novel algorithm for extraction of clinical and biological relevant biomarkers from proteomic SELDI tracings.

Main outcome measure  Presence of intra‐amniotic inflammation and/or infection leading to preterm birth.

Results  Patients with intra‐amniotic inflammation that deliver preterm have a distinctive amniotic fluid proteomic profile of three or four of the following proteins: neutrophil defensins‐1 and ‐2, and calgranulins A and C. Based on the presence or absence of these biomarkers, we devised the mass restricted (MR) score ranging from 0 (all biomarker peaks absent) to 4 (all biomarker peaks present). In stage 1, MR score > 2 had 92.9% sensitivity (95% CI 76.5–98.9) and 91.8% specificity (95% CI 80.4–97.7) for detection of intra‐amniotic inflammation. In blind testing (stage 2), MR score > 2 provided 100% specificity and sensitivity (95% CI 100–100). A MR score > 2 was associated with imminent preterm delivery.

Conclusion  Proteomic analysis of amniotic fluid reveals the presence of biomarkers characteristic of intrauterine inflammation. This methodology may identify the subgroup of patients that might benefit most from interventions to prevent fetal damage in utero.
Vaginal hysterectomy for benign disorders in obese women: a prospective study
Authors: Rafii Arash , Samain Emmanuel , Levardon Michel , Darai Emile , Deval Bruno
Published: January 2005

Objective  To compare the morbidity of vaginal hysterectomy in obese and non‐obese women in a single institution.

Design  Obese and non‐obese women with benign uterine disorders matched for age, parity and race underwent vaginal hysterectomy without laparoscopic assistance. Peri‐operative outcome complications were compared. Thirty‐eight women had a BMI over 30 kg/m2 (study group) and 178 women had a BMI below 30 kg/m2 (control group).

Setting  Gynaecologic department of a university hospital.

Population  Women who were referred to our department with an indication of vaginal hysterectomy for benign disorders.

Methods  Case control study.

Main outcome measures  Peri‐operative complications, the fall in the haemoglobin concentration, the duration of the procedure, the length of the hospital stay and uterine weight were analysed.

Results  Mean BMI was 33.2 and 23.7 kg/m2 in the study and control groups, respectively. None of the obese women had severe co‐morbidity contraindicating surgery. There were no significant differences in surgical or anaesthetic risk factors, including parity, hormonal status, pre‐existing disease and estimated mean uterine weight. The overall complication rates were 14% and 16% in the obese and non‐obese groups, respectively (P= 0.7). Obesity did not increase the duration of the procedure (48 [7] minutes vs 50 [10] minutes, P= 0.1) or the length of hospitalisation (5.8 [1.4] days vs 5.5 [1.2] days, P= 0.2).

Conclusion  Vaginal hysterectomy can be successfully performed, with acceptable morbidity, in obese women.
Delivery of Growth Factors Using Gene Therapy to Enhance Bone Healing
Authors: Southwood Louise L. , Frisbie David D. , Kawcak Chris E. , Mcilwraith C. Wayne
Published: January 2005

Objective— To review the delivery of growth factors using gene therapy for enhancing long‐bone fracture healing.

Study Design— Literature review.

Methods— MEDLINE and CAB Abstracts literature search (1980–2004).

Results— Non‐union and infected non‐union are relatively common complications of long‐bone fractures in human and veterinary patients. Growth factors are cytokines that regulate many cell functions important in fracture healing. Exogenous growth factors can be delivered to the fracture site as recombinant proteins or using gene therapy. Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 and ‐7 (rhBMP‐2 and ‐7), in particular, enhance fracture healing in numerous experimental and clinical studies. Some limitations with use of recombinant proteins may be overcome by use of gene therapy. Gene therapy involves delivery of the growth factor gene to cells at the fracture site using a viral or non‐viral vector. The gene is then expressed (protein synthesis) by cells at the fracture site. Delivery of the BMP gene to the fracture site using gene therapy has been evaluated in laboratory animal models of non‐union, with favorable results and without complications.

Conclusion— Delivery of growth factors, particularly members of BMP family, to the fracture site using gene therapy may be a method to enhance fracture healing. Use of this technology may improve the prognosis for patients with long‐bone fractures.

Clinical Relevance— Clinical application of gene therapy could improve the prognosis for human and veterinary patients with long‐bone fractures, but has not been evaluated clinically.
Cutaneous Wound Healing in the Cat: A Macroscopic Description and Comparison with Cutaneous Wound Healing in the Dog
Authors: Bohling Mark W. , Henderson Ralph A. , Swaim Steven F. , Kincaid Steven A. , Wright James C.
Published: January 2005

Objective—To describe the macroscopic features of first and second intention cutaneous wound healing in the cat and compare with the dog.

Study Design—Experimental study.

Animals—Domestic shorthaired cats (6) and beagle dogs (6).

Methods—Square, open cutaneous wounds created on the dorsal aspect of the thorax were evaluated for 21 days for temporal and spatial development of granulation tissue, wound contraction, epithelialization, and total healing. To evaluate first intention healing, breaking strength of sutured linear cutaneous wounds was measured at 7 days post‐wounding. Laser‐Doppler perfusion imaging was used to measure cutaneous perfusion.

Results—First intention healing: sutured wounds in cats were only half as strong as those in dogs at day 7 (0.406 versus 0.818 kg breaking strength). Second intention healing: cats produced significantly less granulation tissue than dogs, with a peripheral, rather than central distribution. Wound epithelialization and total wound healing (total reduction in open wound area from contraction and epithelialization) were greater for dogs than for cats over 21 days. Wound contraction on day 7 was greater for dogs, but not on day 14 or 21. Cutaneous perfusion was initially greater for dogs than for cats, but no differences were detected after day 7.

Conclusions—Significant, previously unreported differences in cutaneous wound healing exist between cats and dogs. In general, cutaneous wounds in cats are slower to heal. Cats and dogs also appear to use different mechanisms of second intention healing. In cats wounds close mainly by contraction of the wound edges, whereas in dogs wounds close more from central pull, and epithelialization.

Clinical Relevance—Surgeons should view the cat as a unique species, which presents its own special challenges in wound healing, and should take this into account when planning treatment of feline wounds, either by primary closure, or by second intention healing.
Evaluation of the Characteristics of Venous Occlusion After Placement of an Ameroid Constrictor in Dogs
Authors: Faulkner Besancon M. , Kyles Andrew E. , Griffey Stephen M. , Gregory Clare R.
Published: January 2005

Objectives— To evaluate the mechanism of vascular occlusion after placement of an ameroid constrictor (AC) on a large intra‐abdominal vein and document changes in blood flow.

Study Design— Experimental study.

Animals— Six adult dogs.

Methods— Six 6.5 mm ACs were digitally scanned to measure area and circumference of the ameroid and inner lumen before surgery. ACs were surgically positioned around the left common iliac vein (CIV) in each dog. Peri‐vascular ultrasonic flow probes were positioned on the left CIV cranial to the AC, and on the right CIV as an internal control. Blood flow measurements were recorded daily until there was no, or prolonged minimal, blood flow, at which time the dogs were euthanatized. Left and right CIVs were removed for histologic evaluation, and the ACs re‐scanned to evaluate degree and direction of expansion of the ameroid.

Results— Reduction in blood flow occurred within 10 days in all dogs. Three dogs had complete occlusion by day 10 from thrombus formation. One dog damaged the flow probes at 13 days when blood flow was approximately 50% of intra‐operative values; the dog was euthanatized at 37 days; there was partial occlusion from thrombosis. Two dogs had persistent low blood flow and occlusion from thrombus formation when euthanatized at 59 and 98 days. There was a significant increase in total AC area and outer circumference, and decrease in luminal area and inner circumference when presurgical and postocclusion measurements were compared.

Conclusions— Vascular occlusion after placement of an AC on a large intra‐abdominal vein occurred from thrombus formation.

Clinical Relevance— A similar pattern of venous occlusion may occur after placement of an AC on a portosystemic shunt, which may lead to both short‐ and long‐term complications associated with portal hypertension.
Preservation of Cadavers for Surgical Technique Training
Authors: Da Silva Rosane Maria Guimarães , Matera Julia Maria , Ribeiro Antonio Augusto Coppi Maciel
Published: January 2005

Objective— To evaluate a technique for preservation of organoleptic tissue characteristics (color, odor, texture, and flexibility) in cadavers used for surgical instruction.

Study Design— Experimental study.

Animals— Forty‐three canine cadavers.

Methods— Cadavers were preserved with a modified Larssen solution of the Hospital Cochim, Paris and cryopreservation. Tissue handling qualities were evaluated in surgical laboratory sessions.

Results— All cadavers kept texture and tissues consistency, especially skin and muscle, similar to those of live animals. Some skin desquamation and pallor of the mucous membranes occurred with repetitive freeze–thaw cycles.

Conclusions— This preservation technique provides acceptable cadaver quality and tissue handling for use in surgical instruction.

Clinical Relevance— Preparation of patient cadavers by intravascular injection of modified Larssen solution yielded suitable instructional models for surgical training.
A Prospective Comparison Between Stabilized Glutaraldehyde and Chlorhexidine Gluconate for Preoperative Skin Antisepsis in Dogs
Authors: Lambrechts Nicolaas E. , Hurter Karin , Picard Jackie A. , Goldin Jeremy P. , Thompson Peter N.
Published: January 2005

Objective—To compare the efficacy of 0.3% stabilized glutaraldehyde and alcohol (SG+A), 0.3% SG and water (SG+W), and 4% chlorhexidine gluconate tincture (CG+A), as skin disinfectants in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

Study Design—Prospective, blinded clinical study.

Animals—One hundred and twenty‐one dogs.

Methods—Cutaneous bacterial colony forming units (CFU) from the perioperative site after skin preparation, after antisepsis, and after surgery (incisional and paramedian), were quantified. The influence of high initial bacterial counts (≥150 CFU) and surgical time on antibacterial efficacy was examined and the proportion of dogs from whichStaphylococcus intermediuswas cultured, determined. Perioperative skin reactions and wound infections were documented.

Results—All 3 antiseptic solutions significantly and equally reduced CFU to all post‐antisepsis sampling levels irrespective of surgical duration (mean surgical times 151.6, 136.2, and 149.6 minutes for CG+A, SG+A and SG+W, respectively). Median percentage reductions in CFU ranged between 99.3% and 100%. In dogs with initial high counts and disinfected with CG+A and SG+W, the incisional samples had significantly higher counts than the post‐antisepsis samples. In the CG+A and SG+W groups, the proportion of post‐surgery samples yieldingS. intermediuswas significantly higher at the incisional than the paramedian sites. Eight mild cutaneous reactions were recorded in equal proportions for the 3 solutions. There were no recorded infections.

Conclusions—All 3 preparations had an equal ability to reduce and maintain low CFU counts, with minimal cutaneous reactions.

Clinical Relevance—SG solutions are safe and effective preoperative skin antiseptics for elective clean‐contaminated surgical procedures.
Variables Associated with Outcome in Dogs Undergoing Extrahepatic Biliary Surgery: 60 Cases (1988–2002)
Authors: Mehler Stephen J. , Mayhew Philipp D. , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Holt David E.
Published: January 2005

Objective— To report clinical findings and define clinical variables associated with outcome in dogs undergoing extrahepatic biliary surgery.

Study Design— Retrospective study.

Animals— Sixty dogs that had extrahepatic biliary tract surgery.

Results— Primary diagnoses included necrotizing cholecystitis (36 dogs, 60%), pancreatitis (12 dogs, 20%), neoplasia (5 dogs, 8%), trauma (4 dogs, 7%), and gallbladder rupture from cholelithiasis without necrotizing cholecystitis (3 dogs, 5%). Bile peritonitis occurred in 19 (53%) dogs with necrotizing cholecystitis, 4 dogs with trauma, and 3 dogs with cholelithiasis without evidence of necrotizing cholecystitis. Cholecystectomy (37 dogs, 62%) and cholecystoduodenostomy (14 dogs, 23%) were the 2 most commonly performed procedures. Median hospitalization for survivors was 5 days (range, 1–15 days). There were 43 surviving dogs (72%) and 17 nonsurvivors (28%, 4 died, 13 euthanatized). Presence of septic bile peritonitis (P=.038), elevation in serum creatinine concentration (P=.003), prolonged partial thromboplastin times (PTTs; P=.003), and lower postoperative mean arterial pressures (P=.0001) were significantly associated with mortality.

Conclusions— Extrahepatic biliary surgery is associated with high mortality and a relatively long hospitalization time for survivors. Cholecystectomy and cholecystoduodenostomy were the most common surgical procedures to treat the 4 major biliary problems (necrotizing cholecystitis, pancreatitis, neoplasia, and trauma) observed in this cohort of dogs. The relatively high mortality rate likely reflects the underlying diseases and their effects on the animal (septic bile peritonitis, higher serum creatinine, prolonged PTT, and lower postoperative mean arterial pressure) rather than complications of surgery.

Clinical Relevance— Septic bile peritonitis, preoperative elevated creatinine concentration, and immediate postoperative hypotension in dogs undergoing extrahepatic biliary tract surgery are associated with a poor clinical outcome. Adequate supportive care and monitoring in the perioperative period is critical to improve survival of dogs with extrahepatic biliary disease.
Re‐Evaluation of a Portocaval Venograft Without an Ameroid Constrictor as a Method for Controlling Portal Hypertension After Occlusion of Intrahepatic Portocaval Shunts in Dogs
Authors: Kyles Andrew E. , Gregory Clare R. , Adin Christopher A.
Published: January 2005

Objective—To evaluate the use of a portocaval venograft without an ameroid constrictor in the surgical management of intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (PSS).

Study Design—Prospective clinical study.

Animals—Seven dogs with intrahepatic PSS.

Methods—Portal pressure was measured after temporary suture occlusion of the intrahepatic PSS. In dogs with an increase in portal pressure ≥8 mm Hg or signs of portal hypertension, a single extrahepatic portocaval shunt was created using a jugular vein. Clinical outcome and complications were recorded.

Results—The mean (±SD) portal pressure increased from 5.9±1.6 to 17.9±4.1 mm Hg with PSS occlusion. There were no intraoperative complications and, after creation of the portocaval shunt, the intrahepatic PSS could be completely ligated in all dogs. The final portal pressure was 9.6±1.9 mm Hg. Complications developed during postoperative hospitalization in 5 dogs and included incisional discharge (4 dogs), ascites (3), ventricular premature contractions (2), and melena, bloody diarrhea, neurologic signs, coagulopathy, and aspiration pneumonia (each in 1 dog). Six dogs died or were euthanatized with clinical signs related to depression, inappetance, abdominal pain, vomiting, melena, and abdominal distention, with a median survival of 82 days (range, 20–990 days). One dog was clinically normal at 33 months after surgery.

Conclusions—Clinical signs observed in 6 dogs after surgery were consistent with portal hypertension. Use of a portocaval venograft without an ameroid constrictor may reduce the likelihood of hepatic vascular development, thereby increasing the risk of life‐threatening portal hypertension should the venograft suddenly occlude.

Clinical Relevance—Use of a portocaval venograft without an ameroid constrictor to control portal hypertension after ligation of an intrahepatic PSS cannot be recommended.
Two Techniques for Supplementing Interlocking Nail Repair of Fractures of the Humerus, Femur, and Tibia: Results in 12 Dogs and Cats
Authors: Randy Basinger R. , Suber Jonathan T.
Published: January 2005

Objective—To describe 2 devices for improving stabilization of inadequately stabilized interlocking nail (ILN) repairs of the humerus, tibia, and femur in dogs and cats.

Study Design—Prospective study.

Animals—Twelve client‐owned dogs and cats.

Methods—Two devices to further stabilize ILN repair of inadequately stabilized diaphyseal fractures were developed. Device 1 was an axial extension for the ILN that was connected to a conventional type I external skeletal fixator (ESF) with a short connecting bar. Device 2 had hybrid ILN bolt/ESF pins that were used to lock the ILN and serve as the pins for a type I ESF. Devices were used at the initial surgery when the stability of ILN repair was considered inadequate based on palpable fracture segment movement, insufficient medullary canal filling of the ILN at the fracture site, or when the ILN was used in a buttress mode. Outcome was obtained by recheck examinations, radiography, and telephone interview.

Results—Device 1 was applicable to fractures of the humerus and femur, but was not used for fractures of the tibia because the ILN extension would have interfered with the stifle. No gross loosening of the ILN/ESF extension connection to the ILN occurred. Device 2 was easily placed and used in the humerus, femur, and tibia. Device 2 allowed removal of the ILN interlock to one or both main fracture segments non‐invasively. Clinically, both devices added stability compared with ILN repair alone. Both devices facilitated controlled destabilization of the fracture repair as healing progressed. Complications of pin tract infection, and premature hybrid bolt/ESF pin loosening resulting in premature ESF removal each occurred in 1 patient. Four of 28 hybrid ILN/ESF pins were grossly loose at 4‐ or 6‐week postoperative recheck examinations. Outcomes were excellent (9), good (1), fair (1), and poor (1).

Conclusions—Inadequately stabilized ILN repair of fractures can be stabilized by use of either device, both of which also permit controlled destabilization of the repair during healing. Device 2 can be used when non‐invasive removal of the ILN interlock is desired during healing.

Clinical Relevance—These 2 devices should be considered as alternative methods for stabilization of inadequately stabilized ILN repairs in dogs and cats, or when controlled destabilization of an ILN fracture repair is desired.
Site Specificity of Transverse Crista Terminalis Conduction in Patients with Atrial Flutter
Authors: YANG YANFEI , WAHBA GEORGE M. , LIU TAYLOR , MANGAT IQWAL , KEUNG EDMUND C. , URSELL PHILIP C. , SCHEINMAN MELVIN M.
Published: January 2005

Introduction: The causes of transcristal conduction (TC) in patients with atrial flutter (AFL) are unknown.

Methods and Results: In two groups of patients referred for AFL ablation, 36 had cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) dependent flutter (Group I) and 24 had lower (n = 21) or upper loop reentry (n = 5) (Group II). After ablation, isthmus block was evaluated by pacing from the coronary sinus (CS) and low lateral right atrium and by alternative techniques, including mapping with electrodes spanning the CTI or electroanatomic mapping. After bidirectional CTI block was verified, 21/36 (58%) in Group I showed TC with CS pacing, including low TC in 16 (including 11 showing “pseudo” CTI conduction), higher TC in 6 and multiple breaks in 3. However, 8 with low TC during CS pacing showed unidirectional block by pacing outside of the CS os. Twelve (50%) in Group II had TC during CS pacing after bidirectional CTI block, with low TC in 5 (2 mimicking residual CTI conduction) and higher breaks in 9. There was no significant difference in the incidence of TC during CS pacing after CTI block between groups. In seven autopsied hearts, the muscle orientation between the proximal CS musculature and Eustachian ridge were examined. Muscular connections between the CS and Eustachian ridge coursing toward the orifice of inferior vena cava were found in one of the hearts.

Conclusions: It is concluded that in patients with bidirectional CTI block, pacing from the CS may be associated with TC mimicking a conduction leak through the isthmus. Pacing just outside the CS os helps distinguish pseudo from true isthmus block.
Effects of cyclic nucleotides on the function of prestin
Authors: Deák Levente , Zheng Jing , Orem Alex , Du Guo‐Guang , Aguiñaga Salvador , Matsuda Keiji , Dallos Peter
Published: January 2005

Outer hair cells (OHCs) in the mammalian organ of Corti display electromotility, which is thought to provide the local active mechanical amplification of the cochlear response. Prestin is the key molecule responsible for OHC electromotility. Several compounds, including cGMP, have been shown to influence OHC electromotility. There are two potential cAMP/cGMP‐dependent protein kinase phosphorylation sites on prestin. Whether these sites are involved in cGMP‐dependent reactions is as yet unknown. In this study, prestin cDNA was transiently transfected into TSA 201 cells. Cells that expressed prestin were selected to measure non‐linear capacitance (NLC), a signature of outer hair cell motility. We applied cGMP and cAMP analogues and a protein kinase G (PKG) antagonist to the cells. Furthermore, nine mutations at putative phosphorylation sites of prestin were produced. The neutral amino acid alanine replaced serine/threonine at phosphorylation sites to change the conserved phosphorylation motif in order to mimic the dephosphorylated state of prestin, whereas replacement with the negatively charged aspartic acid mimicked the phosphorylated state. The properties of such modified prestin‐expressing cells were examined, through measurement of NLC and with confocal microscopy. Our data demonstrate that cGMP is significantly more influential than cAMP in modifying the non‐linear, voltage‐dependent charge displacement in prestin‐transfected cells. The electrical properties of the single and double mutations further indicate a possible interaction between the two PKG target sites. One of these sites may influence the membrane targeting process of prestin. Finally, a new topology map of prestin is proposed.
Vagal afferent nerves with nociceptive properties in guinea‐pig oesophagus
Authors: Yu Shaoyong , Undem Bradley J. , Kollarik Marian
Published: January 2005

Some vagal afferent nerves are thought to mediate autonomic responses evoked by noxious oesophageal stimuli and participate in the perception of pain originating in the oesophagus. However, the vagal nociceptive nerve phenotypes implicated in this function have yet to be identified. In this study, nociceptive fibres were defined by the capacity to discriminate noxious mechanical stimuli (wide range of oesophageal distension with pressure up to 100 mmHg) and detect noxious chemical stimuli (the activators of capsaicin receptor TRPV1). Using immunohistochemical techniques with retrogradely labelled oesophagus‐specific neurones and performing extracellular recordings from the isolated vagally innervated oesophagus, we show that in the guinea‐pig, the vagus nerves supply the oesophagus with a large population of nociceptive‐like afferent nerve fibres. Vagal nociceptive‐like fibres in the guinea‐pig oesophagus are derived from two embryonically distinct sources: neurones situated in the nodose vagal ganglia and neurones situated in the jugular vagal ganglia. Nodose (placode‐derived) nociceptive‐like fibres are exclusively C‐fibres sensitive to a P2X receptors agonist and rarely express the neuropeptide substance P. In contrast, jugular (neural crest‐derived) nociceptive‐like fibres include both A‐fibres and C‐fibres, are insensitive to P2X receptors agonist and mostly express substance P. The non‐nociceptive vagal tension mechanoreceptors are distinguished from nociceptors by their saturable response to oesophageal distension and by the lack of TRPV1. These tension mechanoreceptors are exclusively A‐fibres arising from the nodose ganglion. We conclude that the vagus nerves supply the guinea‐pig oesophagus with nociceptors in addition to tension mechanoreceptors. The vagal nociceptive‐like fibres in the oesophagus comprise two distinct subtypes dictated by the ganglionic location of their cell bodies.