bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utility of Family History Reports of Major Birth Defects as a Public Health Strategy
Authors: Romitti Paul A.
Published: September 2007

A major birth defect is an abnormality that can affect the structure or function of an organ. In the United States, major birth defects are the leading cause of infant mortality and contribute substantially to childhood disability and morbidity. Globally, these conditions lead to the death of millions of infants and children annually. Patients with 1 or more affected family members may be at increased risk for having a child with a major birth defect; thus, accurate knowledge of these conditions among family members of their patients gives the clinician the ability to provide improved risk assessment and reproductive planning. Such knowledge can also serve as motivation for patients to adhere to healthy behaviors such as folic acid use or smoking cessation. To evaluate the utility of collecting family history reports of major birth defects as a public health strategy, 6 key criteria were examined by reviewing the relevant published literature. Overall, the review showed that major birth defects satisfied several of the criteria. Additional research is needed, however, regarding the awareness of parent reports of the occurrence of these conditions among relatives and how knowledge of birth defect diagnoses and related risk factors are transmitted among relatives. Such research needs to encompass not only immediate family members but also other first-degree and second-degree relatives. In summary, routine collection of family history reports of birth defects in pediatric practice holds promise as a public health strategy to reduce the burden of morbidity, mortality, and disability associated with major birth defects.
Is Family History a Useful Tool for Detecting Children at Risk for Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases? A Public Health Perspective
Authors: Valdez Rodolfo , Greenlund Kurt J. , Khoury Muin J. , Yoon Paula W.
Published: September 2007

Several studies indicate that the risk for type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease is detectable in childhood, although these disorders may not emerge until adulthood. In addition, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease seem to share risk factors, including obesity and dyslipidemia, and might even share etiology, which has important implications for screening and prevention strategies for both diseases. Primary prevention, in particular, has gained importance because the results of major randomized, controlled trials strongly suggest that, at least in high-risk adult groups, type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed. Furthermore, some intervention studies indicate that the risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease can be reduced in children. A simple way to detect risk for either diabetes or cardiovascular disease is to examine the family history. Numerous studies have shown that adults who have 1 or more first- or second-degree relatives affected with diabetes or cardiovascular disease are at high risk of having or developing these diseases. Currently, there are no overall screening strategies recommended for either diabetes or cardiovascular disease among children and adolescents. The evidence is strong, however, that youth with a positive family history already show signs of increased risk for these conditions. Family history can be part of the approach to screening for children at risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease and should be part of prevention campaigns aimed at reducing the burden of these diseases and their risk factors in children.
Summary of Workgroup Meeting on Use of Family History Information in Pediatric Primary Care and Public Health
Authors: Green Ridgely Fisk
Published: September 2007

A workgroup meeting on the use of family history information in pediatric primary care and public health sponsored by the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was held February 24 to 25, 2006. The workgroup participants met to discuss how to improve the use of family history information in pediatric settings. Topics addressed at the meeting included current practices, needs, and barriers for use of family history information in pediatric primary care and public health. Other considerations included how available family history tools might be applicable to pediatric settings and which areas require additional research. Specific model conditions were presented that illustrated issues involved in the use of family history information in pediatric settings, including cystic fibrosis, fragile X syndrome, polycystic kidney disease, hyperlipidemia and coronary artery disease, and birth defects. Ethical, economic, and technologic concerns involved in integration of family history information into pediatric settings were discussed also.
Carbon Turnover and Ammonia Emissions during Composting of Biowaste at Different Temperatures
Authors: Eklind Ylva , Sundberg Cecilia , Smårs Sven , Steger Kristin , Sundh Ingvar , Kirchmann Holger , Jönsson Håkan
Published: September 2007

The effects of different process temperatures (40, 55, and 67°C) during composting of source‐separated household waste were studied in a 200 L compost reactor at an oxygen concentration of 16%. The overall decomposition measured as carbon mineralization, decomposition of different carbon constituents, and the dynamics of nitrogen mineralization and the microbial community, are reported. Ammonia emissions at 67°C were more than double those at lower temperatures, and they were lowest at 40°C. The decomposition rate, measured as CO2emission, was highest at 55°C. Decomposition of crude fat was slower at 40°C than at 55 and 67°C. The peak in microbial biomass was largest in the run at 40°C, where substantial differences were seen in the microbial community structure and succession compared to thermophilic temperatures. Biowaste composting can be optimized to obtain both a high decomposition rate and low ammonia emissions by controlling the process at about 55°C in the initial, high‐rate stage. To reduce ammonia emissions it seems worthwhile to reduce the temperature after an initial high‐temperature stage.
Dendrochemical Record of Historical Lead Contamination Sources, Wells G&H Superfund Site, Woburn, Massachusetts
Authors: Burnett Aaron , Kurtz Andrew C. , Brabander Daniel , Shailer Mark
Published: September 2007

Laser‐ablation inductively coupled‐plasma mass‐spectrometry analysis of red oak (Quercus rubra) from a well documented heavy metal contaminated United States Environmental Protection Agency superfund site in Woburn, Massachusetts reveals decade‐long trends in Pb contaminant sources. Lead isotope ratios (207Pb/206Pb and208Pb/206Pb) in tree rings plot along a linear trend bracketed by several local and regional contamination sources. Statistically significant interannual variations in207Pb/206Pb suggest that atmospheric Pb is rapidly incorporated into wood, with minimal mobility subsequent to deposition in annual growth rings. We interpret the decadal trends in our record as a changing mixture of local pollution sources and gasoline‐derived Pb. Between 1940 and 1970, Pb was predominantly derived from remobilization of local industrial Pb sources. An abrupt shift in207Pb/206Pb may indicate that local Pb sources were overwhelmed by gasoline‐derived Pb during the peak of leaded gasoline emissions in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Comparison of Plant Families in a Greenhouse Phytoremediation Study on an Aged Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon–Contaminated Soil
Authors: Olson Paul E. , Castro Ana , Joern Mark , DuTeau Nancy M. , Pilon‐Smits Elizabeth A. H. , Reardon Kenneth F.
Published: September 2007

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous, recalcitrant, and potentially carcinogenic pollutants. Plants and their associated rhizosphere microbes can promote PAH dissipation, offering an economic and ecologically attractive remediation technique. This study focused on the effects of different types of vegetation on PAH removal and on the interaction between the plants and their associated microorganisms. Aged PAH‐polluted soil with a total PAH level of 753 mg kg−1 soil dry weight was planted with 18 plant species representing eight families. The levels of 17 soil PAHs were monitored over 14 mo. The size of soil microbial populations of PAH degraders was also monitored. Planting significantly enhanced the dissipation rates of all PAHs within the first 7 mo, but this effect was not significant after 14 mo. Although the extent of removal of lower‐molecular‐weight PAHs was similar for planted and unplanted control soils after 14 mo, the total mass of five‐ and six‐ring PAHs removed was significantly greater in planted soils at the 7‐ and 14‐mo sampling points. Poaceae (grasses) were the most effective of the families tested, and perennial ryegrass was the most effective species; after 14 mo, soils planted with perennial ryegrass contained 30% of the initial total PAH concentration (compared with 51% of the initial concentrations in unplanted control soil). Although the presence of some plant species led to higher populations of PAH degraders, there was no correlation across plant species between PAH dissipation and the size of the PAH‐degrading population. Research is needed to understand differences among plant families for stimulating PAH dissipation.
Residual Effects of Compost and Plowing on Phosphorus and Sediment in Runoff
Authors: Wortmann Charles S. , Walters Daniel T.
Published: September 2007

Manure application can lead to excessive soil test P levels in surface soil, which can contribute to increased P concentration in runoff. However, manure application often results in reduced runoff and sediment loss. Research was conducted to determine the residual effects of previously applied compost, plowing of soil with excessive soil test P, and application of additional compost after plowing on volume of runoff and loss of sediment and P in runoff. The research was conducted in 2004 and 2005 under natural rainfall events with plots of 11‐m length where low‐P and high‐P compost had been applied during April 1998 to January 2001. During this initial application period, Bray‐P1 in the surface 5‐cm of depth was increased from 14 to 553 mg kg−1for the high‐P compost. Inversion plowing in the spring of 2004 greatly decreased P levels in the surface soil and over the following year reduced runoff by 35% and total P losses by 51% compared with the unplowed compost treatments. Sediment loss was increased with plowing compared with the unplowed compost applied treatments but less than with the no‐compost treatment. The application of additional compost after plowing increased surface soil P and dissolved reactive P (DRP) in runoff but did not increase particulate P in runoff. Unplowed compost‐amended soil continued to reduce sediment loss but exhibited increased DRP loss even 5 yr after the last application. Plowing to invert excessively high‐P surface soil was effective in reducing runoff and DRP loss.
Prediction of Microbial Accessibility of Carbon‐14‐Phenanthrene in Soil in the Presence of Pyrene or Benzo[a]pyrene using an Aqueous Cyclodextrin Extraction Technique
Authors: Papadopoulos Apostolos , Reid Brian J. , Semple Kirk T.
Published: September 2007

Traditionally, solvent extractions are routinely used in the assessment of contaminated land. However, vigorous solvent extractions only give total concentrations rather than that relating to the bioaccessible fraction. Recently, less harsh, aqueous‐based extraction methods have been shown to be a better estimate of the microbial degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The aqueous‐based hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (HPCD) extraction technique was tested using 14C‐PAHs in soils and compared against indigenous microbial mineralization (a measure of bioaccessibility) of 14C‐phenanthrene in the presence of pyrene or benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) over a range of concentrations (0, 5, 10, or 50 mg kg−1) and aged for 0, 25, 50, and 100 d in four soils. At each time point, the total loss, extractability, and mineralization of 14C‐phenanthrene was measured in each of the soils. The presence of the other PAHs had little effect on the behavior of 14C‐phenanthrene in any of the soils. Comparisons between the amounts of 14C‐phenanthrene extracted using HPCD and mineralized were made and showed that there was a correlation (1:1). This study demonstrates that HPCD extraction is able to predict the microbial accessibility fraction of 14C‐phenanthrene in the presence of other PAHs in a range of soils, further supporting the applicability of this technique.
Rye Cover Crop and Gamagrass Strip Effects on NO3Concentration and Load in Tile Drainage
Authors: Kaspar T.C. , Jaynes D.B. , Parkin T.B. , Moorman T.B.
Published: September 2007

A significant portion of the NO3from agricultural fields that contaminates surface waters in the Midwest Corn Belt is transported to streams or rivers by subsurface drainage systems or “tiles.” Previous research has shown that N fertilizer management alone is not sufficient for reducing NO3concentrations in subsurface drainage to acceptable levels; therefore, additional approaches need to be devised. We compared two cropping system modifications for NO3concentration and load in subsurface drainage water for a no‐till corn (Zea maysL.)‐soybean (Glycine max[L.] Merr.) management system. In one treatment, eastern gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloidesL.) was grown in permanent 3.05‐m‐wide strips above the tiles. For the second treatment, a rye (Secale cerealeL.) winter cover crop was seeded over the entire plot area each year near harvest and chemically killed before planting the following spring. Twelve 30.5 × 42.7‐m subsurface‐drained field plots were established in 1999 with an automated system for measuring tile flow and collecting flow‐weighted samples. Both treatments and a control were initiated in 2000 and replicated four times. Full establishment of both treatments did not occur until fall 2001 because of dry conditions. Treatment comparisons were conducted from 2002 through 2005. The rye cover crop treatment significantly reduced subsurface drainage water flow‐weighted NO3concentrations and NO3loads in all 4 yr. The rye cover crop treatment did not significantly reduce cumulative annual drainage. Averaged over 4 yr, the rye cover crop reduced flow‐weighted NO3concentrations by 59% and loads by 61%. The gamagrass strips did not significantly reduce cumulative drainage, the average annual flow‐weighted NO3concentrations, or cumulative NO3loads averaged over the 4 yr. Rye winter cover crops grown after corn and soybean have the potential to reduce the NO3concentrations and loads delivered to surface waters by subsurface drainage systems.
Effects of Initial Solute Distribution on Contaminant Availability, Desorption Modeling, and Subsurface Remediation
Authors: Haws Nathan W. , Ball William P. , Bouwer Edward J.
Published: September 2007

Low permeability regions in which solute movement is governed by diffusion reduce the availability of pollutants for remediation and can function as long‐term sources of groundwater contamination. The inherent difficulty in understanding mass transfer from these regions of sequestered contamination is further complicated by unknown solute distributions within the low‐permeability regions (sequestering regions). When models are calibrated to reproduce temporal histories of solute release from a sequestering region (desorption), the fitted parameter values are used to infer the physical or chemical characteristics of the media; however, the calibrated parameters also reflect the case‐specific initial conditions (i.e., the solute distribution within the sequestering region domain at the onset of desorption). This phenomenon is demonstrated using model simulations of solute diffusion from hypothetical solids with characteristics similar to those of the well studied Borden, Ontario aquifer system. Solute release from the solids is simulated using a batch diffusion model under different initial solute distributions within the solids. The results of these model simulations are used to calibrate parameters of a multiple first‐order rate desorption model (MRM) to illustrate how the fitted MRM parameters increase or decrease depending on the initial “aging” of the solids. Further numerical simulations are conducted for a one‐dimensional flow system under steady‐state and variable‐rate hydraulic flushing. These simulations show that although aging reduces desorptive mass flux during early stages of flushing, aged sites have greater desorptive mass flux (greater solute availability) than “freshly” contaminated media during the later stages of remediation. Overall, the results demonstrate why the physicochemical meaning of observed desorption rates cannot be accurately deduced without first understanding the initial solute distribution within the media.
Differential Responses of Eubacterial, Mycobacterium, and Sphingomonas Communities in Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH)‐Contaminated Soil to Artificially Induced Changes in PAH Profile
Authors: Uyttebroek Maarten , Spoden Astrid , Ortega‐Calvo Jose‐Julio , Wouters Katinka , Wattiau Pierre , Bastiaens Leen , Springael Dirk
Published: September 2007

Recent reports suggest that Mycobacterium is better adapted to soils containing poorly bioavailable polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) compared to Sphingomonas To study this hypothesis, artificial conditions regarding PAH profile and PAH bioavailability were induced in two PAH‐contaminated soils and the response of the eubacterial, Mycobacterium, and Sphingomonas communities to these changed conditions was monitored during laboratory incubation. Soil K3663 with a relatively high proportion of high molecular weight PAHs was amended with phenanthrene or pyrene to artificially change the soil into a soil with a relatively increased bioavailable PAH contamination. Soil AndE with a relatively high proportion of bioavailable low molecular weight PAHs was treated by a single‐step Tenax extraction to remove the largest part of the easily bioavailable PAH contamination. In soil K3663, the added phenanthrene or pyrene compounds were rapidly degraded, concomitant with a significant increase in the number of phenanthrene and pyrene degraders, and minor and no changes in the Mycobacterium community and Sphingomonas community, respectively. However, a transient change in the eubacterial community related to the proliferation of several γ‐proteobacteria was noted in the phenanthrene‐amended soil. In the extracted AndE soil, the Sphingomonas community initially developed into a more diverse community but finally decreased in size below the detection limit. Mycobacterium in that soil never increased to a detectable size, while the eubacterial community became dominated by a γ‐proteobacterial population. The results suggest that the relative bioavailability of PAH contamination in soil affects bacterial community structure but that the behavior of Mycobacterium and Sphingomonas in soil is more complex than prospected from studies on their ecology and physiology.
The Release of Phosphorus to Porewater and Surface Water from River Riparian Sediments
Authors: Surridge Ben W. J. , Heathwaite A. L. , Baird Andrew J.
Published: September 2007

Sediments can be both a source and a sink of dissolved phosphorus (P) in surface water and shallow groundwater. Using laboratory mesocosms, we studied the influence of flooding with deionized water and simulated river water on P release to solution using sediment columns taken from a riparian wetland. The mesocosm incubation results showed that rather than retaining nutrients, sediments in the riparian zone may be a significant source of P. Concentrations of dissolved P in porewater reached more than 3 mg L−1 and in surface water over 0.8 mg L−1 within a month of sediment inundation. The reductive dissolution of P‐bearing iron (Fe) oxides was the likely mechanism responsible for P release. Dissolved P to Fe molar ratios in anaerobic samples were approximately 0.45 when columns were flooded with water that simulated the chemistry of the adjacent river. This suggests there was insufficient Fe in the anaerobic samples to precipitate all P if the solutions were oxygenated or transported to an aerobic environment. If the anaerobic wetland solutions were delivered to oxygenated rivers and streams adjacent to the riparian zone, the equilibrium concentration of P in these systems could rise. The timing of P release was inversely related to the nitrate (NO3−) concentration in floodwater. This indicates that in riparian zones receiving low nitrate loads, or where NO3− loads are being progressively reduced, the risk of dissolved P release may increase. These findings present particular challenges for restoration and management in riparian areas.
Inactivation of Ascaris suum in a Biodrying Compost System
Authors: Collick Amy S. , Inglis Scott , Wright Peter , Steenhuis Tammo S. , Bowman Dwight D.
Published: September 2007

Pathogen contamination of waterways is a serious concern in dairy farming areas where livestock waste is applied to agricultural fields. As an alternative, a biodrying composting system dries collected livestock waste, reduces the strong odors, and has been proposed as a means of reducing, and even eliminating pathogens present in the waste. Therefore, the survival of pathogens in a biodrying composting system was investigated. Dairy farm livestock waste was piled in a biodrying storage shed where forced aeration and natural decomposition processes heated a major portion of the waste pile to temperatures exceeding 55°C. Ascaris suum eggs were used as the surrogate species and inoculated into special chambers and placed at three different elevations at different intervals along the length of the pile. Control chambers were stored in water at 4°C in the laboratory. Both compost and control chambers were removed at Day 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20. The eggs were extracted from the chamber medium and analyzed for viability. No viable eggs were recovered from any of the chambers removed from the compost pile, while ≥90% viability was observed in the control chambers. High temperatures and continued drying were the major contributing factors to the inactivation of the helminth eggs. The complete inactivation of A. suum eggs by the biodrying process encourages the storage and treatment of manure to high temperatures and reduced moisture conditions before field spreading to reduce the risk of harmful pathogens contaminating waterways and potential drinking water supplies.
Nitrogen Mineralization and Microbial Activity in Oil Sands Reclaimed Boreal Forest Soils
Authors: McMillan R. , Quideau S. A. , MacKenzie M. D. , Biryukova O.
Published: September 2007

Organic materials including a peat‐mineral mix (PM), a forest floor‐mineral mix (L/S), and a combination of the two (L/PM) were used to cap mineral soil materials at surface mine reclamation sites in the Athabasca oil sands region of northeastern Alberta, Canada. The objective of this study was to test whether LFH provided an advantage over peat by stimulating microbial activity and providing more available nitrogen for plant growth. Net nitrification, ammonification, and N mineralization rates were estimated from field incubations using buried bags. In situ gross nitrification and ammonification rates were determined using the 15N isotope pool dilution technique, and microbial biomass C (MBC) and N (MBN) were measured by the chloroform fumigation‐extraction method. All reclaimed sites had lower MBC and MBN, and lower net ammonification and net mineralization rates than a natural forest site (NLFH) used as a control, but the reclamation treatment using LFH material by itself had higher gross and net nitrification rates. A positive correlation between in situ moisture content, dissolved organic N, MBC, and MBN was observed, which led us to conduct a moisture manipulation experiment in the laboratory. With the exception of the MBN for the L/S treatment, none of the reclamation treatments ever reached the levels of the natural site during this experiment. However, materials from reclamation treatments that incorporated LFH showed higher respiration rates, MBC, and MBN than the PM treatment, indicating that the addition of LFH as an organic amendment may stimulate microbial activity as compared to the use of peat alone.
Evaluation of a turbidimetric immunoassay for measurement of plasma IgG concentration in foals
Authors: McCue Patrick M.
Published: September 2007

Objective—To validate a turbidimetric immunoassay (TIA) for measurement of plasma IgG concentrations in foals.

Animals—36 foals.

Procedures—Blood samples were collected from foals before suckling and at 12 and 24 to 36 hours after birth. Plasma IgG concentrations were determined via a commercial single radial immunodiffusion (RID) assay. By use of goat anti-equine IgG antiserum and a spectrophotometer, a TIA was developed to measure plasma and serum IgG concentrations; the percentage light transmission was calibrated against RID assay–determined IgG concentrations. Assay repeatability and effects of serial dilution, sample type, and ambient temperature on assay results were evaluated.

Results—Serial dilution of plasma samples from foals 12 and 24 to 36 hours of age with presuckle plasma yielded percentage light transmission results that were highly inversely correlated (r = −0.95) with IgG concentrations determined via RID assay. Measurements of IgG in plasma and serum samples via TIA did not differ. When samples were assayed multiple times, the coefficient of variation was < 5.0%. Ambient temperature did not affect TIA results. At IgG concentrations of 400 and 800 mg/dL, TIA sensitivity was > 90%; specificity was 99.1% and 70.5%, respectively; and positive and negative predictive values were 98.1% and 71.5%, respectively, and 96.4% and 91.1%, respectively.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Plasma IgG concentrations in foals determined via the TIA and RID assay were highly correlated. The TIA rapidly yielded quantitative results and would be useful in clinical situations where intervention decisions are time dependent.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ϵ-aminocaproic acid in horses
Authors: Ross Julie , Dallap Barbara L. , Dolente Brett A. , Sweeney Raymond W.
Published: September 2007

Objective—To determine the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ϵ-aminocaproic acid (EACA), including the effects of EACA on coagulation and fibrinolysis in healthy horses.

Animals—6 adult horses.

Procedures—Each horse received 3.5 mg of EACA/kg/min for 20 minutes, IV. Plasma EACA concentration was measured before (time 0), during, and after infusion. Coagulation variables and plasma α2-antiplasmin activity were evaluated at time 0 and 4 hours after infusion; viscoelastic properties of clot formation were assessed at time 0 and 0.5, 1, and 4 hours after infusion. Plasma concentration versus time data were evaluated by use of a pharmacokinetic analysis computer program.

Results—Drug disposition was best described by a 2-compartment model with a rapid distribution phase, an elimination half-life of 2.3 hours, and mean residence time of 2.5 ± 0.5 hours. Peak plasma EACA concentration was 462.9 ± 70.1 μg/mL; after the end of the infusion, EACA concentration remained greater than the proposed therapeutic concentration (130 μg/mL) for 1 hour. Compared with findings at 0 minutes, EACA administration resulted in no significant change in plasma α2-antiplasmin activity at 1 or 4 hours after infusion. Thirty minutes after infusion, platelet function was significantly different from that at time 0 and 1 and 4 hours after infusion. The continuous rate infusion that would maintain proposed therapeutic plasma concentrations of EACA was predicted (ie, 3.5 mg/kg/min for 15 minutes, then 0.25 mg/kg/min).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that EACA has potential clinical use in horses for which improved clot maintenance is desired.
Endoscopic evaluation of bronchial morphology in rabbits
Authors: Johnson Lynelle R. , Drazenovich Tracy L. , Hawkins Michelle G.
Published: September 2007

Objective—To evaluate bronchial morphology endoscopically in rabbits and develop a valid nomenclature for the endobronchial branching pattern.

Animals—10 mature New Zealand White rabbits.

Procedures—Flexible bronchoscopy was performed in rabbits anesthetized with isoflurane via nasal mask. Airways were systematically evaluated from the larynx to the terminal branches accessible with a 2.5-mm–outer diameter flexible endoscope. Airway branching patterns were identified and assessed for variation among subjects.

Results—Airways of all rabbits were readily examined with the 2.5-mm flexible endoscope. Laryngeal structure and function were normal in each rabbit, and airway branching patterns in all rabbits evaluated were identical. At the carina, branching into left and right principal bronchi was evident. The left principal bronchus divided immediately into the left cranial and left caudal lobar bronchi. The left cranial lobe bronchus further divided into dorsal and ventral segmental bronchi. The left caudal lobe bronchus gave rise to branches originating dorsally, ventrally, and medially before continuing caudally. The right principal bronchus divided into the right cranial, right middle, and accessory lobar bronchi and continued distally as the right caudal lobar bronchus. The right cranial lobe bronchus also divided into dorsal and ventral segmental bronchi, and the right caudal lobe bronchus had branches that originated dorsally, ventrally, and medially.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Definition of a standard nomenclature for airway branching in rabbits will allow precise localization of disease in clinical cases and accurate collection of airway samples in clinical and scientific evaluations.
Computed tomographic analysis of the effects of two inspired oxygen concentrations on pulmonary aeration in anesthetized and mechanically ventilated dogs
Authors: Staffieri Francesco , Franchini Delia , Carella Giuseppina L. , Montanaro Manuela G. , Valentini Valerio , Driessen Bernd , Grasso Salvatore , Crovace Antonio
Published: September 2007

Objective—To compare the effect of 2 concentrations of oxygen in inspired gas (fraction of inspired oxygen [FIO2] 1.0 or 0.4) on pulmonary aeration and gas exchange in dogs during inhalation anesthesia.

Animals—20 healthy dogs.

Procedures—Following administration of acepromazine and morphine, anesthesia was induced in each dog with thiopental and maintained with isoflurane in 100% oxygen (100% group; n = 10) or a mixture of 40% oxygen and air (40% group; 10). Dogs were placed in dorsal recumbency and were mechanically ventilated. After surgery, spiral computed tomography (CT) of the thorax was performed and PaO2, PaCO2, and the alveolar-arterial oxygen tension difference (P[A–a]O2) were assessed. The lung CT images were analyzed, and the extent of hyperinflated (−1,000 to −901 Hounsfield units [HUs]), normally aerated (−900 to −501 HUs), poorly aerated (−500 to −101 HUs), or nonaerated (−100 to +100 HUs) areas was determined.

Results—Compared with the 100% oxygen group, the normally aerated lung area was significantly greater and the poorly aerated and nonaerated areas were significantly smaller in the 40% oxygen group. The time to CT (duration of surgery) was similar in both groups. Although PaCO2 was similar in both groups, PaO2 and P(A–a)O2 were significantly higher in the 100% oxygen group. In both groups, pulmonary atelectasis developed preferentially in caudal lung fields.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—In isoflurane-anesthetized dogs, mechanical ventilation with 40% oxygen appeared to maintain significantly better lung aeration and gas exchange than ventilation with 100% oxygen.
Effects of remifentanil infusion regimens on cardiovascular function and responses to noxious stimulation in propofol-anesthetized cats
Authors: Correa Mariana do A. , Aguiar Antonio J. de A. , Neto Francisco J. Teixeira , Mendes Guilherme da M. , Steagall Paulo V. M. , Lima Alfredo F. da M.
Published: September 2007

Objective—To evaluate the effects of 2 remifentanil infusion regimens on cardiovascular function and responses to nociceptive stimulation in propofol-anesthetized cats.

Animals—8 adult cats.

Procedures—On 2 occasions, cats received acepromazine followed by propofol (6 mg/kg then 0.3 mg/kg/min, IV) and a constant rate infusion (CRI) of remifentanil (0.2 or 0.3 μg/kg/ min, IV) for 90 minutes and underwent mechanical ventilation (phase I). After recording physiologic variables, an electrical stimulus (50 V; 50 Hz; 10 milliseconds) was applied to a forelimb to assess motor responses to nociceptive stimulation. After an interval (≥ 10 days), the same cats were anesthetized via administration of acepromazine and a similar infusion regimen of propofol; the remifentanil infusion rate adjustments that were required to inhibit cardiovascular responses to ovariohysterectomy were recorded (phase II).

Results—In phase I, heart rate and arterial pressure did not differ between remifentanil- treated groups. From 30 to 90 minutes, cats receiving 0.3 μg of remifentanil/kg/min had no response to noxious stimulation. Purposeful movement was detected more frequently in cats receiving 0.2 μg of remifentanil/kg/min. In phase II, the highest dosage (mean ± SEM) of remifentanil that prevented cardiovascular responses was 0.23 ± 0.01 μg/kg/min. For all experiments, mean time from infusion cessation until standing ranged from 115 to 140 minutes.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although the lower infusion rate of remifentanil allowed ovariohysterectomy to be performed, a CRI of 0.3 μg/kg/min was necessary to prevent motor response to electrical stimulation in propofol-anesthetized cats. Recovery from anesthesia was prolonged with this technique.
Cytokine mRNA expression in synovial fluid of affected and contralateral stifle joints and the left shoulder joint in dogs with unilateral disease of the stifle joint
Authors: de Bruin Tanya , de Rooster Hilde , van Bree Henri , Duchateau Luc , Cox Eric
Published: September 2007

Objective—To examine mRNA expression of cytokines in synovial fluid (SF) cells from dogs with cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) rupture and medial patellar luxation (MPL) and determine mRNA expression for 3 joints (affected stifle, unaffected contralateral stifle, and left shoulder joints) in dogs with unilateral CrCL rupture.

Sample Population—29 stifle joints with CrCL rupture (29 dogs), 8 stifle joints with MPL (7 dogs), and 24 normal stifle joints (16 clinically normal dogs).

Procedures—Immediately before reconstructive surgery, SF was aspirated from the cruciate-deficient stifle joint or stifle joint with MPL. Fourteen of 29 dogs had unilateral CrCL rupture; SF was also aspirated from the unaffected contralateral stifle joint and left shoulder joint. Those 14 dogs were examined 6 and 12 months after reconstructive surgery. Total RNA was extracted from SF cells and reverse transcription–PCR assay was performed to obtain cDNA. Canine-specific cytokine mRNA expression was determined by use of a real-time PCR assay.

Results—Interleukin (IL)-8 and -10 and interferon-G expression differed significantly between dogs with arthropathies and dogs with normal stifle joints. For the 14 dogs with unilateral CrCL rupture, a significant difference was found for IL-8 expression. Before reconstructive surgery, IL-8 expression differed significantly between the affected stifle joint and left shoulder joint or contralateral stifle joint. Six months after surgery, IL-8 expression was significantly increased in the unaffected contralateral stifle joint, compared with the shoulder joint.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—No conclusions can be made regarding the role of the examined cytokines in initiation of CrCL disease.
Dynamic computed tomographic quantitation of hepatic perfusion in dogs with and without portal vascular anomalies
Authors: Zwingenberger Allison L. , Shofer Frances S.
Published: September 2007

Objective—To compare hepatic, pancreatic, and gastric perfusion on dynamic computed tomography (CT) scans of clinically normal dogs with those of dogs with portal vascular anomalies.

Sample Population—Dynamic computed tomography (CT) scans of 10 clinically normal dogs and 21 dogs with portal vascular anomalies.

Procedures—Retrospective analysis of dynamic CT scans. Hepatic arterial perfusion, hepatic portal perfusion, total hepatic perfusion, hepatic perfusion index, gastric perfusion, and pancreatic perfusion were calculated from time attenuation curves.

Results—Mean ± hepatic arterial perfusion was significantly higher in affected dogs (0.57 ± 0.27 mL/min•mL−1) than in clinically normal dogs (0.23 ± 0.11 mL/min•mL−1), and hepatic portal perfusion was significantly lower in affected dogs (0.52 ± 0.47 mL/min•mL−1) than in clinically normal dogs (1.08 ± 0.45 mL/min•mL−1). This was reflected in the hepatic perfusion index, which was significantly higher in affected dogs (0.59 ± 0.34), compared with clinically normal dogs (0.19 ± 0.07). Gastric perfusion was significantly higher in dogs with portal vascular anomalies (0.72 ± 0.44 mL/min•mL−1) than in clinically normal dogs (0.41 ± 0.21 mL/min•mL−1), but total hepatic perfusion and pancreatic perfusion were not significantly different. Among subgroups, dogs with congenital intrahepatic portosystemic shunts and dogs with arterioportal fistulae had higher hepatic arterial perfusion than did clinically normal dogs. Dogs with congenital intrahepatic portosystemic shunts also had an increase in gastric perfusion and hepatic perfusion index.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Hepatic perfusion variables measured on CT scans revealed differences in hemodynamics between clinically normal dogs and those with portal vascular anomalies.
Pharmacologic characterization of novel adenosine A2A receptor agonists in equine neutrophils
Authors: Sun Wan-chun , Moore James N. , Hurley David J. , Vandenplas Michel L. , Linden Joel M. , Murray Thomas F.
Published: September 2007

Objective—To evaluate anti-inflammatory effects of several novel adenosine receptor agonists and to determine their specificity for various adenosine receptor subtypes on neutrophils, cells heterologously expressing equine adenosine receptors, or equine brain membranes.

Sample Population—Neutrophils isolated from 8 healthy horses.

Procedures—Radioligand binding experiments were performed to compare binding affinities of adenosine receptor agonists to equine adenosine A1, A2A, and A3 receptor subtypes. Effects of these agonists on endotoxin-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by equine neutrophils and roles of specific adenosine receptor subtypes and cAMP production in mediating these effects were determined.

Results—Radioligand binding experiments yielded a ranked order of affinity for the brain equine A2A receptor on the basis of 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of the agonists as follows: ATL307 (IC50 = 1.9nM) and ATL313 > ATL309 and ATL310 > ATL202 > 2-([p-2- carboxyethyl] phenylethylamino)-5′-N-ethylcarboxyamidoadenosine > 5′-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine. Furthermore, ATL313 had approximately 100-fold greater selectivity for A2A over A1 and A3 receptors. In functional assays with equine neutrophils, the compounds inhibited endotoxin-induced ROS production and stimulated production of cAMP with the same ranked order of potency. Results of experiments performed with selective adenosine receptor antagonists indicated that functional effects of ATL313 were via stimulation of A2A receptors.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that activation of A2A receptors exerted anti-inflammatory effects on equine neutrophils and that stable, highly selective adenosine A2A receptor agonists may be developed for use in management of horses and other domestic animals with septic and nonseptic inflammatory diseases.
Long-term palliation of tetralogy of Fallot in dogs by use of a modified Blalock-Taussig shunt
Authors: Brockman Daniel J. , Holt David E. , Gaynor J. William , Theman Terrill E.
Published: September 2007

Objective—To describe a modified Blalock-Taussig shunt (mBT) procedure and assess its use in dogs with clinical signs associated with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF).

Design—Descriptive report.

Animals—6 dogs with severe TOF-associated clinical signs.

Procedures—Each dog had TOF (confirmed echocardiographically or angiographically) and underwent an mBT shunt procedure for surgical palliation of signs. The surgery was performed through a left fourth rib resection or a left fifth intercostal thoracotomy. The left subclavian artery was dissected free from surrounding mediastinal tissue. The main pulmonary artery trunk was exposed through an incision in the overlying pericardium. A shunt comprised of a 6-mm-diameter tube of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (5 dogs) or a segment of carotid artery (1 dog) was sutured end to side between the left subclavian artery and pulmonary artery trunk.

Results—5 of the 6 dogs survived the immediate postoperative period. The dog that died shortly after surgery was the smallest of the dogs (weight, 2.9 kg [6.38 lb]) and had received the carotid artery autograft. Three dogs survived long term and 2 dogs died of unknown causes 6 years after undergoing the mBT shunt procedure. In all dogs that survived the mBT procedure, shunt patency was confirmed and quality of life appeared improved.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These findings have suggested that the mBT shunt procedure safely provides long-term palliation of TOF-associated clinical signs in dogs. In addition, it may offer an effective low-risk and lower-cost alternative to open heart repair of TOF.
Heterotopic implantation of a porcine bioprosthetic heart valve in a dog with aortic valve endocarditis
Authors: Arai Shiori , Wright Bonnie D. , Miyake Yukari , Boon June A. , Orton E. Christopher
Published: September 2007

Case Description—A 5-year-old male German Shepherd Dog was evaluated because of a 5-month history of progressive lethargy, weight loss, and heart failure.

Clinical Findings—On physical examination, bounding femoral pulses and systolic and diastolic murmurs were detected. Echocardiography revealed severe aortic valve insufficiency (AVI) and a large vegetative lesion on the aortic valve consistent with aortic valve endocarditis. The AVI velocity profile half-time was 130 milliseconds; the calculated peak systolic pressure gradient across the aortic valve was 64 mm Hg. Left ventricular diameter during diastole was 63.6 mm (predicted range, 40.2 to 42 mm) and during systole was 42.9 mm (predicted range, 25.4 to 27 mm). Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressures were 120, 43, and 65 mm Hg, respectively.

Treatment and Outcome—To palliate severe AVI, the descending aorta was occluded (duration, 16.75 minutes) and heterotopic implantation of a porcine bioprosthetic heart valve in that vessel was performed. After surgery, systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressures were 115, 30, and 61 mm Hg, respectively, in the forelimb and 110, 62, and 77 mm Hg, respectively, in the hind limb. Within 6 months, the AVI velocity profile half-time had increased to 210 milliseconds, indicating diminished severity of AVI. After 24 months, the dog was able to engage in vigorous exercise; no pulmonary edema had developed since surgery.

Clinical Relevance—Heterotopic bioprosthetic heart valve implantation into the descending aorta during brief aortic occlusion appears feasible in dogs and may provide substantial palliation for dogs with severe AVI.
Acute pulmonary hemorrhage during isoflurane anesthesia in two cats exposed to toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum)
Authors: Mader Douglas R. , Yike Iwona , Distler Anne M. , Dearborn Dorr G.
Published: September 2007

Case Description—Acute pulmonary hemorrhage developed during isoflurane anesthesia in 2 Himalayan cats undergoing routine dental cleaning and prophylaxis.

Clinical Findings—The cats were siblings and lived together. In both cats, results of pre-operative physical examinations and laboratory testing were unremarkable. Blood pressure and oxygen saturation were within reference ranges throughout the dental procedure. Approximately 15 to 20 minutes after administration of isoflurane was begun, frothy blood was noticed within the endotracheal tube. Blood was suctioned from the endotracheal tube, and the cats were allowed to recover from anesthesia.

Treatment and Outcome—1 cat initially responded to supportive care but developed a second episode of spontaneous pulmonary hemorrhage approximately 30 hours later and died. The other cat responded to supportive care and was discharged after 4 days, but its condition deteriorated, and the cat died 10 days later. Subsequently, it was discovered that the home was severely contaminated with mold as a result of storm damage that had occurred approximately 7 months previously. Retrospective analysis of banked serum from the cats revealed satratoxin G, a biomarker for Stachybotrys chartarum, commonly referred to as “toxic black mold.”

Clinical Relevance—Findings highlight the potential risk of acute pulmonary hemorrhage in animals living in an environment contaminated with mold following flood damage.
Evaluation of strontium Sr 90 for the treatment of superficial squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal planum in cats: 49 cases (1990–2006)
Authors: Hammond Genevieve M. , Gordon Ira K. , Theon Alain P. , Kent Michael S.
Published: September 2007

Objective—To determine progression-free and overall survival times of cats with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the nasal planum following treatment with a single fraction of strontium Sr 90 (90Sr).

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—49 cats with SCC of the nasal planum.

Procedures—Information including FIV infection status, diagnosis of SCC vs SCC in situ (ie, evidence that the tumor did or did not penetrate the epidermal basement membrane, respectively), 90Sr dose and number of probe applications, treatment-related response and complications, and recurrence of SCC and new lesion development was obtained from medical records. The relationships of these variables with calculated progression-free and overall survival times were assessed.

Results—Of 49 cats that underwent 90Sr plesiotherapy (median dose, 128 Gy), 48 (98%) had a response to treatment and 43 (88%) had a complete response. Median progression-free and overall survival times were 1,710 and 3,076 days, respectively. Treatment complications were infrequent (4 [8%] cats) and mild. Following treatment, the SCC recurrence rate was 20% (10/49 cats); 16 (33%) cats developed new lesions in other locations. Overall survival time was significantly longer for cats with a complete response to treatment than for those with a partial response. None of the other variables evaluated had a significant effect on progression-free or overall survival time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Treatment of cats with SCC of the nasal planum with a single fraction of 90Sr appeared to be effective and well tolerated. Initial response to treatment was predictive of overall survival time.
Gabapentin for the treatment of neuropathic pain in a pregnant horse
Authors: Davis Jennifer L. , Posner Lysa P. , Elce Yvonne
Published: September 2007

Case Description—A 24-year-old 732-kg (1,610-lb) pregnant Belgian draft horse mare developed neuropathy and signs of intractable pain following colic surgery.

Clinical Findings—Following recovery from colic surgery to treat compression of the small and large intestines because of a large fetus, the mare was noticed to have signs of femoral neuropathy involving the left hind limb. Within 36 hours after recovery, the mare developed signs of severe pain that were unresponsive to conventional treatment. No gastrointestinal tract or muscular abnormalities were found, and the discomfort was attributed to neuropathic pain.

Treatment and Outcome—The mare was treated with gabapentin (2.5 mg/kg [1.1 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h). Shortly after this treatment was initiated, the mare appeared comfortable and no longer had signs of pain. Treatment was continued for 6 days, during which the dosage was progressively decreased, and the mare was discharged. The mare subsequently delivered a healthy foal.

Clinical Relevance—Gabapentin appeared to be a safe, effective, and economical treatment for neuropathic pain in this horse.