bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of storage time and pretreatment on seed germination of the threatened coniferous species Fokienia hodginsii
Authors: Nguyen Duc Quang , Phan Thi Phuong Hoa , Dao Van Tan
Published: September 2014

We report the effects of storage time and pretreatment on seed germination of Fokienia hodginsii. Lower mean germination was observed in seeds stored for 2 years (6.41 ± 1.23 seeds/replicate) compared with those stored for 1 year (8.52 ± 1.06 seeds/replicate). Seeds collected from a southern location had statistically higher mean germination (9.67 ± 1.28 seeds/replicate) than those collected from a northern location (7.99 ± 1.36 seeds/replicate). Higher mean T50 was observed in seeds stored for 2 years (37.02 ± 4.43 days) compared with those stored for 1 year (30.69 ± 5.06 days). Mean germination of untreated fresh seeds was 9.97 ± 1.34 seeds/replicate and that of treated fresh seeds in 60°C water was 12.95 ± 1.24 seeds/replicate. Fresh seeds treated with 50°C and 70°C water had a significantly lower mean germination compared with untreated seeds and seeds treated in 60°C water. Mean T50 was lowest in seeds treated with 60°C water.
Access and affordability of nutritious food in metropolitan Melbourne
Authors: Rossimel Adam , Han Sun S. , Larsen Kirsten , Palermo Claire
Published: September 2014

Aim

The cost of food is a key determinant of food choice. Little is known about the cost of food in metropolitan areas. The present study aimed to determine access to healthy food across Melbourne, Australia.

Methods

A random sample of 22 out of 31 local government areas was selected for inclusion in the study and one census collection district was chosen for analysis. The cost of a healthy food basket and basket of fruits and vegetables was assessed in a sample of supermarkets and green grocers. A ratio of healthy (supermarkets and grocery stores) to unhealthy (fast food and takeaway outlets) food stores was calculated.

Results

The median cost of a healthy food basket across 68 supermarkets for a family of four was not significantly different across suburbs ($456.27, 20.07). Families in inner city use less of their income on the basket (15%) compared to middle and outer suburbs (19%, P = 0.02 and P = 0.03, respectively). The median price of a sample of fruits and vegetables across 24 green grocers was significantly cheaper than supermarkets (P = 0.01). Accessibility to healthy food decreased significantly between inner (ratio = 3.4), middle (ratio = 2.5) and outer suburbs (ratio = 0.91).

Conclusions

Those living in outer suburbs may have poorer access to healthy food. Ensuring more affordable, accessible healthy food is available for those living in outer suburban areas may improve nutrition outcomes.
Anatomical Variations of the Blood Vascular System in Veterinary Medicine
Authors: Avedillo L. , Martín‐Alguacil N. , Salazar I.
Published: September 2014

Traditional veterinary anatomical models describe the branches of the caudal gluteal artery as the iliolumbar, cranial gluteal, lateral caudal, satellite of the ischiatic nerve and dorsal perineal arteries. However, some classical veterinary anatomy textbooks often indicate variations the general organization of the arterial tree, without giving any pattern of origin or illustrations of the different branching. The aim of this study was to investigate the presumptive variability of the caudal gluteal artery. Two hundred and thirty‐two pelvic halves from 116 adult dogs were examined. Twelve anatomical variations were found, nine occurring in more than 5% of the dogs, and three in <5%. A ‘long‐type’ internal iliac artery, which means short caudal gluteal and internal pudendal arteries, was identified, while a ‘perineal trunk’ was observed as an interesting arterial variation. If the caudal segment alone is taken into consideration, identical vascular patterns in both hemi‐pelvises are found in 17% of the dogs. Significant statistical correlation was found for four different types of anatomic variations and gender, two types of variations and body size, one type of variation for body side and one type of variation for head shape.
Expression of LIN28 and its regulatory microRNAs in adult adrenocortical cancer
Authors: Faria André M. , Sbiera Silviu , Ribeiro Tamaya C. , Soares Iberê C. , Mariani Beatriz M.P. , Freire Daniel S. , de Sousa Gabriela R.V. , Lerario Antônio M. , Ronchi Cristina L. , Deutschbein Timo , Wakamatsu Alda , Alves Venancio A.F. , Zerbini Maria Claudia N. , Mendonca Berenice B. , Fragoso Maria Candida B.V. , Latronico Ana Claudia , Fassnacht Martin , Almeida Madson Q.
Published: September 2014

Objective

LIN28 control cells reprogramming and pluripotency mainly through miRNA regulation and has been overexpressed in many advanced cancers. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic role of LIN28 and its regulatory miRNAs in a large cohort of adrenocortical tumours (ACTs).

Patients and methods

LIN28 protein expression was assessed in 266 adults ACTs (78 adenomas and 188 carcinomas) from Brazil and Germany. LIN28A and LIN28B gene expression was analysed in 59 ACTs (31 adenomas and 28 carcinomas) and copy number variation in 39 ACTs. In addition, we determined the expression of let‐7 family, mir‐9, mir‐30 and mir‐125 in 28 carcinomas.

Results

LIN28A gene was overexpressed in aggressive ACCs when compared with adenomas and nonaggressive ACCs, but no LIN28A copy number variation was found in ACTs. Unexpectedly, weak LIN28 protein expression was significantly associated with reduced disease‐free survival in ACC patients (P = 0·01), but for overall survival only a trend was detectable (P = 0·117). In the multivariate analysis, only Ki67 index ≥10% (HR 4·6, P = 0·000) and weak LIN28 protein expression (HR 2·0, P = 0·03) were independent predictors of recurrence in ACC patients. Interestingly, mir‐9 expression, a negative LIN28A/B regulator, was significantly higher in aggressive than in nonaggressive ACCs [2076 (from 36 to 9307) vs 133·4 (from 2·4 to 5193); P = 0·011] and was highly associated with reduced overall (P = 0·01) and disease‐free survival (P = 0·01). However, mir‐9 prognostic role should be further evaluated in a larger cohort.

Conclusion

Weak LIN28 protein expression was associated with recurrence in ACCs. Additionally, overexpression of mir‐9, a negative LIN28A regulator, was associated with poor outcome.
Doppler‐guided transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialization for haemorrhoids: results from a multicentre trial
Authors: Ratto C. , Parello A. , Veronese E. , Cudazzo E. , D'Agostino E. , Pagano C. , Cavazzoni E. , Brugnano L. , Litta F.
Published: September 2014

Aim

This multicentre study, based on the largest patient population ever published, aims to evaluate the efficacy of Doppler‐guided transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD Doppler) in the treatment of symptomatic haemorrhoids and to identify the factors predicting failure for an effective mid‐term outcome.

Method

Eight hundred and three patients affected by Grade II (137, 17.1%), III (548, 68.2%) and IV (118, 14.7%) symptomatic haemorrhoidal disease underwent THD Doppler, with a rectal mucopexy in patients with haemorrhoidal prolapse. The disease was assessed through a specifically designed symptom questionnaire and scoring system. A uni‐ and multivariate analyses of the potential predictive factors for failure were performed.

Results

The morbidity rate was 18.0%, represented mainly by pain or tenesmus (106 patients, 13.0%). Acute bleeding requiring surgical haemostasis occurred in seven patients (0.9%). No serious or life‐threatening complications occurred. After a mean follow‐up period of 11.1 ± 9.2 months, the overall success rate was 90.7% (728 patients), with a recurrence of haemorrhoidal prolapse, bleeding, and both symptoms in 51 (6.3%), 19 (2.4%) and 5 (0.6%) patients, respectively. Sixteen out of 47 patients undergoing re‐operation had a conventional haemorrhoidectomy. All the symptoms were significantly improved in each domain of the score (P < 0.0001). At multivariate analysis the absence of morbidity and performance of a distal Doppler‐guided dearterialization were associated with a better outcome.

Conclusion

THD Doppler is a safe and effective therapy for haemorrhoidal disease. If this technique is to be employed, an accurate distal Doppler‐guided dearterialization and a tailored mucopexy are mandatory to contain and reduce the symptoms.
Brain vein disorders in newborn infants
Authors: Raets Marlou , Dudink Jeroen , Raybaud Charles , Ramenghi Luca , Lequin Maarten , Govaert Paul
Published: September 2014

The brain veins of infants are in a complex phase of remodelling in the perinatal period. Magnetic resonance venography and susceptibility‐weighted imaging, together with high‐resolution Doppler ultrasound, have provided new tools to aid study of venous developmental anatomy and disease. This review aims to provide a comprehensive background of vein development and perinatal venous lesions in preterm and term‐born infants, and to encourage further research in both the fetus and the newborn infant, with the aim of preventing or mitigating parenchymal injury related to diseases involving veins.
Ten‐Eleven‐Translocation 2 (TET2) is downregulated in myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Scopim‐Ribeiro Renata , Machado‐Neto João Agostinho , Campos Paula de Melo , Silva Cleide Aparecida Moreira , Favaro Patricia , Lorand‐Metze Irene , Costa Fernando Ferreira , Saad Sara Teresinha Olalla , Traina Fabiola
Published: September 2014

TET2, a member of the ten‐eleven‐translocation (TET) family genes that modify DNA by converting 5‐methylcytosine (5‐mC) to 5‐hydroxymethylcytosine (5‐hmC), is located in chromosome 4q24 and is frequently mutated in myeloid malignancies. The impact of TET2 mutation on survival outcomes is still controversial; however, functional studies have proved that it is a loss‐of‐function mutation that impairs myeloid cell differentiation and contributes to the phenotype of myeloid neoplasia. We, herein, aimed to investigate TET2 expression in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). A significantly decreased TET2 expression was observed in bone marrow cells from AML (n = 53) and patients with MDS (n = 64), compared to normal donors (n = 22). In MDS, TET2 expression was significantly reduced in RAEB‐1/RAEB‐2 compared to other WHO 2008 classifications, and a lower TET2 expression was observed at the time of MDS disease progression in four of five patients. In multivariate analysis, low TET2 expression (P = 0.03), male gender (P = 0.02), and WHO 2008 classification (P < 0.0001) were independent predictors of poorer overall survival. These results suggest that defective TET2 expression plays a role in the MDS pathophysiology and predicts survival outcomes in this disease.
Cataract surgery is associated with a reduced risk of dementia: a nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Yu W.‐K. , Chen Y.‐T. , Wang S.‐J. , Kuo S.‐C. , Shia B.‐C. , Liu C. J.‐L.
Published: September 2014

Background and purpose

Our purpose was to determine the association of cataract surgery with subsequent development of dementia in older adults with newly diagnosed cataract.

Methods

By using data from Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD), a population‐based cohort study including 491 226 subjects aged 70 or older with first‐time diagnosis of cataract coded from 2000 to 2009 was conducted. After matching cataract patients receiving cataract surgery with cataract patients without receiving cataract surgery for age, sex, index date, Charlson Comorbidity Index score, interval between first coding of cataract diagnosis and index date, hypertension and diabetes mellitus, 113 123 patients in each cohort were enrolled. The main outcome measure was newly diagnosed dementia coded by neurologists or psychiatrists more than 365 days after cataract surgery. Incidence rate and hazard ratio of dementia were compared between the cataract surgery and cataract diagnosis cohorts.

Results

The incidence rate of dementia was 22.40 per 1000 person‐years in the cataract surgery cohort and 28.87 per 1000 person‐years in the cataract diagnosis cohort. The rate of dementia was significantly lower in the cataract surgery group (hazard ratio 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.75−0.79, P < 0.001). Female gender (P < 0.001) and a shorter interval between the date of first coding of a cataract diagnosis and the date of cataract surgery (P = 0.009) were significantly associated with a lower incidence rate of dementia.

Conclusion

In an NHIRD cohort of Taiwanese aged 70 years and older with a diagnosis of cataract, patients undergoing cataract surgery were associated with a reduced risk of subsequent dementia compared with those without cataract surgery.
Multi‐Centre Field Trial to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Clodronic Acid for Navicular Syndrome
Authors: Frevel M. , King B. , Kolb D. , Boswell R. , Shoemaker R.S. , Janicek J. , Cole R. , Poole M. , Longhofer S.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Clodronic acid (CA) is a bisphosphonate which inhibits bone resorption through inhibition of formation/dissolution of hydroxyapatite crystals and by direct cellular effects on osteoclasts. The study was conducted to assess the short‐ and long‐term effectiveness of CA for the control of lameness associated with navicular syndrome.

Objectives

To demonstrate the effectiveness of CA in navicular syndrome.

Study design

Randomised, multi‐centre, double‐masked, placebo controlled field trial in client‐owned horses.

Methods

Horses with unilateral or bilateral forelimb lameness (AAEP lameness scale grade ≥2); positive anaesthesia of the distal palmar digital nerve(s); radiographic evidence of navicular syndrome and the absence of other causes of lameness were eligible for enrolment. Horses were randomised to treatment groups in a 3:1 ratio of CA to saline control. Treatment was administered once via intramuscular injection at 1.2 mg/kg bwt (maximum 765 mg CA or 15 ml saline). Efficacy was assessed by comparing lameness grades before and after treatment.

Results

146 horses of various breeds were enrolled at 6 sites in Germany and US. At 8 weeks, horses in the CA group had a significantly higher success rate than horses in the control group (least squares mean 74.72% vs. 3.30%; P = 0.0028). Efficacy was sustained through 180 days in 66% of horses. Adverse events were few and considered to be mild and transient.

Conclusions

Clodronic acid was safe and effective in navicular syndrome.

Ethical animal research: Owners gave informed consent for their horses’ inclusion in the study. Sources of funding: Dechra Ltd. Competing interests: The late Dr Frevel was a consultant to Omnimedic GbR, which has applied for a patent for the use of clodronic acid for navicular syndrome. Dr Poole is employed by Dechra.
Thyroid Gland Tumours in the Horse: Clinical Diagnostic, Treatment and Histological Characterisation
Authors: Troillet A. , Brehm W. , Scharner D.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Tumours of the thyroid gland are rare in the equine species. In literature varying clinical signs and diagnostic findings are described in single reports and case series. Reported clinical signs are related to upper airway compression or thyroidal metabolic activity. A considerable risk of laryngeal hemiplegia is described when horses were treated with hemithyroidectomy [1].

Objectives

To review 11 horses referred with a unilateral thyroid neoplasia in order to describe clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, treatment and outcome. Histopathology was performed on all resected thyroid lobes.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Records from horses with histologically confirmed thyroid tumours treated with unilateral thyroid lobe resection were reviewed (2003–2013). Short‐term outcome was defined for 2 weeks after surgery. Owners’ questionnaire was performed for evaluation of long‐term outcome defined as a minimum of 6 months.

Results

Affected horses were aged between 6 and 21 years. In contrast to literature the majority of tumours were adenocarcinomas (9/11), mainly found in mares (8/9). Histology revealed follicular and parafollicular (C‐cell) mixed growth pattern of the carcinomas. Tumour size, growth rate and sonographic appearance did not correlate to histological characteristics. Ventral displacement of the thyroid lobe and close preparation along the thyroid capsule during surgical resection are inevitable to avoid damage to laryngeal nerves. Seroma formation was the only observed short‐term complication. No long‐term complications occurred.

Conclusions

Hemithyroidectomy is regarded the treatment of choice in horses with a unilateral thyroid lobe neoplasia with excellent long‐term prognosis. High incidence of malignant tumours particularly in mares has to be considered. Tumour characteristics can only be derived from histopathology and immunhistochemistry.

Ethical animal research: Ethical committee oversight not currently required by this congress: retrospective study of clinical records. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Sources of funding: None. Competing interests: None.
Repeatability of an In‐Feed Sugar Test in Ponies
Authors: de Laat M.A. , Pollitt C.C. , Sillence M.N.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Insulin resistance (IR) can be difficult to diagnose from basal insulin and glucose concentrations, so a field‐based oral sugar test (OST) is preferred. However, the repeatability of this test has not been reported.

Objectives

To determine the repeatability of an in‐feed OST in ponies.

Study design

A repeated measures, longitudinal study.

Methods

Eight mixed‐breed ponies received an in‐feed OST at 08.00 h, after an overnight fast, once weekly for 3 weeks. D‐glucose powder (0.75 g/kg bwt), wheat bran (200 g) and water (500 ml) were combined, and mixed with lucerne chaff (0.3% bwt). Blood samples were taken before, and 90 and 180 min after, feeding. All meals were consumed. Blood glucose concentration was determined immediately and serum was obtained for insulin determination by equine‐specific ELISA. Fasting glucose, insulin and glucose:insulin ratios were used to classify ponies as IR, compensated IR or normal on each occasion and the results were compared to the OST.

Results

Diagnosis of IR from basal values was consistent in only 3/8 ponies, with a large mean coefficient of variation (CV) of 51% for baseline insulin, across tests. The OST results were repeatable in 7/8 ponies, with mean CV at 25% for the 90 min insulin sample (CV for 7 ponies: 19%). The OST was repeatable on 2/3 occasions in the eighth pony, however, resting hyperinsulinaemia meant that IR was diagnosed on 3/3 occasions using basal values in this pony. There was significant (P<0.05) variability in insulin concentration at 180 min, but not 90 min, across tests.

Conclusions

An OST is more repeatable when assessing IR in ponies than basal values/ratios. Both resting hyperinsulinaemia and insulin responses to oral sugar can be assessed with the OST, which increases the likelihood of accurately diagnosing IR. Blood sampling at 90 min post feeding is recommended for more consistent results.

Ethical animal research: The experimental protocol was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of the University of Queensland (SVS/QUT/109/13/QUT). Sources of funding: This study was funded by Queensland University of Technology. Competing interests: None.
The Prevalence of Ocular Diseases in Arabian Horses in Poland
Authors: Paschalis‐Trela K. , Cywińska A. , Witkowski L. , Czopowicz M. , Trela J. , Kita J.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Ocular diseases in horses often require long‐lasting and costly therapies. Without proper treatment they may lead to partial or full blindness, excluding horses from intended use, and thus pose a serious veterinary and economic problem.

Objectives

No epidemiological data on equine ocular pathologies in Poland was available. The aim of this study was to evaluate their type and prevalence in pure‐bred Arabian horses.

Study design

The study involved 615 horses (15% of Arabian population) bred and owned by 3 Arabian state stud farms in Poland. All horses underwent standard clinical and ophthalmic examination and medical history from the previous 5 years was analysed.

Methods

The medical history was based on the data from farms’ veterinary archives in the stables and epidemiological interview given by the resident veterinarian. Every horse underwent general clinical and ophthalmic examination.

Results

The prevalence of ocular diseases was 9.8% (95% CI: 7.7–12.4%). The following pathologies were diagnosed: equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) – prevalence of 5.5% (95% CI: 4.0–7.6%), non‐ERU related cataract – 3.3% (95% CI: 1.9–4.7%), post traumatic lesions – 0.8% (95% CI: 0.4–1.9%), glaucoma – one case. Seven horses had one nonvisual eye, one was bilaterally blind.

Conclusions

Equine recurrent uveitis was the most common ocular disease in this Polish population of Arabian horses. Its prevalence is lower than usually reported in Europe (8–10%) and in the United States (8–25%). However, severe ocular pathologies were observed confirming that they remain an important clinical problem.

Ethical animal research: The study was approved by the Local Ethics Committee. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Sources of funding: The research was supported by a grant from National Science Centre on the basis of the decision No DEC‐2011/03/B/NZ6/04682. Competing interests: None.
Vaccination with Virus‐Like Particles Induces Long Lasting Protection from Experimentally Induced Sarcoid‐Like Tumours in Horses
Authors: Hainisch E.K. , Harnacker J. , Shafti‐Keramat S. , Kirnbauer R. , Brandt S.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

We have already demonstrated that vaccination with empty BPV1 capsids termed virus‐like particles (VLP) protects horses from experimental infection with BPV1 virion. Long‐term monitoring of antibody titres in experimental horses and data from other species suggest that this protection is long lasting.

Objectives

To test protection against experimental infection with BPV‐1 virion in horses that were vaccinated with BPV‐1 L1 VLP approximately 5 years earlier.

Study design

Controlled experiment.

Methods

Seven horses, vaccinated 3 times (boosters after 4 weeks and 6 months) in 2007/2008 with doses of BPV1 L1 VLP ranging from 50 μg to 150 μg/dose and 3 unvaccinated control horses were challenged by intra‐dermal inoculation with cow wart derived BPV1 virion (5 × 107 BPV‐1 virions per wheal, 10 wheals per horse). Inoculation sites were monitored for 10 weeks. Blood for serum antibody titre determination by pseudovirion neutralisation assay was taken on the day of challenge and after 6 months.

Results

Six of 7 vaccinated horses had measurable serum antibody titres (1:50 to 1:400). These titres were boosted by inoculation (about one step of dilution). Two of 3 unvaccinated controls remained sero‐negative. One control horse showed sero‐conversion. All control horses developed tumours at all 10 inoculation sites. Tumours appeared approximately 2 weeks after inoculation and reached maximum sizes of up to 8 mm. Regression was complete by 8 weeks after their first appearance in all horses. All vaccinated horses remained completely free from tumours. No influence of dose rate or antibody titre on the level of protection could be determined.

Conclusions

BPV‐1 L1 VLP vaccination proves to be fully effective in protecting horses from experimental infection and tumour formation 5 years post immunisation. The protection was complete even in horses with low or unmeasurable antibody titres. This is another step towards establishing a vaccination against equine sarcoids.

Ethical animal research: This experiment was approved by the institutional ethics committee and the national authority under license No: GZ: 68.205/0144‐II/3b/2012. Sources of funding: Veterinary University Vienna, Austrian Research Fund (FWF). Competing interests: None.
Is Luteal Blood Flow a Useful Indicator of Mare Suitability as a Recipient in an Embryo Transfer Programme?
Authors: Brogan P.T. , van Nieuwenhuisen J. , Necchi D. , Stout T.A.E. , de Ruijter‐Villani M.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing the study

Embryo transfer (ET) is an increasingly common component of commercial sport‐horse breeding. While many variables affect the success of ET, optimal selection of recipient mares is essential. Ideally, adequate corpus luteum (CL) function would be evaluated by measuring plasma progesterone (P4) concentrations (≥2.0 ng/ml). In practice however, P4 is rarely measured because it would increase costs, and there is a delay to obtaining a result. Colour‐flow Doppler sonography (CF) has been described as a rapid means of assessing CL function because luteal blood flow correlates with circulating P4 concentrations.

Objectives

To use CF to assess luteal blood flow at the time of ET in recipient mares, and assess its relationship to P4 concentrations and pregnancy outcome.

Study design

Cohort study.

Methods

Fifty‐eight Day 8 horse embryos were transferred as part of a commercial programme. B‐mode and CF sonographic examinations were performed immediately prior to ET (ET+0), and blood was collected to measure plasma P4. Measurements were repeated at 4, 11, 18 and 25 days after ET in pregnant mares. Mares scanned not pregnant at Day 4 were re‐checked 2 days later. The CF image of each CL was frozen at peak total area of flow, and repeated 3 times. The cross‐sectional area (corrected for presence of lacunae) and the total area of colour pixels within the CL were analysed using ImageJ software.

Results

Plasma P4 correlated positively (P<0.05) with area of colour pixels (range r = 0.40–0.55) and total CL area (range r = 0.41–0.51) at all time‐points. None of plasma P4, CL area, or CF pixel area were predictive of pregnancy outcome.

Conclusions

CL blood flow is not predictive of pregnancy outcome but should help identify mares with an inadequate CL and not therefore suitable for receiving an embryo.

Ethical animal research: Data collected during procedures performed as part of routine management. Explicit owner informed consent not stated. Sources of funding: Institutional resident research funding. Competing interests: None.
Association Between ‘Wind‐Test’ Findings and Resting Endoscopic Assessment of Laryngeal Function at Thoroughbred Public Auction in the UK
Authors: Palmer L. , Ramzan P.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Despite ongoing advances in diagnostic imaging, ‘wind‐testing’ remains the most common screening test for upper respiratory tract obstructions and is an important condition of sale at Thoroughbred public auctions in UK/Europe. Correlations between abnormal respiratory noise and resting laryngeal function have been incompletely investigated to date.

Objectives

To determine whether associations exist between respiratory noise at lunge and subsequent diagnosis of recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN).

Study design

Retrospective analysis of records for all post sale wind‐testing undertaken by a single veterinary practice at Tattersalls Newmarket yearling, breeze‐up and horse‐in‐training sales between 2009 and 2013.

Methods

Descriptions of abnormal respiratory noise were categorised as ‘inspiratory whistle’, ‘inspiratory harsh’ or ‘pan‐respiratory harsh’, and included lunge direction during which noise was evident. Concurrent examination by 2 veterinary surgeons was a criterion for inclusion of cases. All horses making abnormal respiratory noises underwent resting endoscopy with a consensus score (Lane scale) given for laryngeal function.

Results

2972 horses underwent post sale wind‐testing and 418 horses (14.1%) underwent resting endoscopic examination due to abnormal respiratory noise. Likelihood of making an abnormal respiratory noise differed significantly between groups (yearlings 10.8%, ‘breeze‐up’ 2‐year‐olds 20.6%, horses‐in‐training 30.1%). Yearlings were significantly more likely (P<0.0001, Chi‐squared/Bonferroni test) to make a ‘harsh’ respiratory noise than horses‐in‐training. Type of noise (whistle) was significantly associated with resting endoscopic evidence of RLN in yearlings (P = 0.009); specificity of ‘whistle’ for RLN in this group was 38.6%. There was no association between lunge direction noise (left, right or both) and RLN.

Conclusions

These results support the widespread belief that harsh respiratory noise when lunged of presumed ‘palatal/pharyngeal’ origin is more likely in yearlings than horses‐in‐training, possibly due to upper respiratory inflammation or immaturity. Inspiratory whistle in both lunge directions is no stronger an indicator of RLN than unidirectional whistle.

Ethical animal research: Ethical committee oversight not currently required by this congress: retrospective study of clinical records. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Sources of funding: None. Competing interests: None.
How do Students Approach Lameness? A Case Study
Authors: Starke S.D. , Pfau T. , May S.A.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

It is unknown how students develop lameness assessment skills.

Objectives

To quantify student performance, visual approaches and attitudes to lameness evaluation.

Study design

Comparison of student cohorts.

Methods

Twenty 3rd year (inexperienced cohort) and thirteen 4th to 5th year (experienced cohort) students evaluated 30 video clips showing horses on the straight line or circle, followed by a general questionnaire. Eyetracking records (Tobii X102) were collected in parallel. The percentage of correctly evaluated horses was calculated based on verified expert opinion. From the eyetracking records on the straight line, the percentage time spent on different regions on the horse was calculated and compared between cohorts.

Results

For both cohorts, while the correct detection of lameness per se was high (median ≥92%), detection of the correct limb was lower (median 40–80% depending on quarters and cohort) and detection of sound horses was at chance level (median = 50%). The correct limb was indicated significantly more often by the experienced cohort (P ≤ 0.032) except for forelimb lameness on the circle (P = 0.053). The inexperienced cohort dedicated more time to looking at limb movement, while the experienced cohort focused on head and pelvis movement. Students judged their expected task performance realistically, on average underestimating themselves slightly by around 8%. The task difficulty was rated as a mean (s.d.) of 4.10 (0.48) out of 5 by the inexperienced and 3.35 (0.47) by the experienced cohort.

Conclusions

Lameness detection skills evolve and improve over the course of the curriculum, with a shift from limb assessment to upper body assessment. Students must learn to reliably determine soundness, and hindlimb lameness proved more difficult than forelimb lameness. Students find lameness detection comparatively difficult, but have a realistic understanding of their skill level, suggesting that they can determine their needs for further practice.

Ethical animal research: No animals were used in the study. Video recordings were selected from the archive of R.K. Smith collected during clinical investigations. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Sources of funding: S.D. Starke's PhD was funded by the Mellon Trust via the Royal Veterinary College. Competing interests: None.
The Relationship Between Working Equids and Women in Developing Countries
Authors: Upjohn M. , Valette D.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

There are approximately 100 million working equids in developing countries worldwide. These animals’ role in impoverished communities is generally unrecognised by national and international policy makers and their needs are overlooked in national animal health systems. Additionally, despite increased international development attention on women and livestock, the specific contributions of equids to poor womens’ lives are also unquantified and overlooked.

Objectives

This study aimed to document the relationship between working equids and women in equine owning communities in Ethiopia, India, Kenya and Pakistan.

Study design

Qualitative semi‐structured focus group discussions elicited opinions from small groups of women (up to 12/group) in selected rural and peri‐urban areas in each country.

Methods

An experienced local language‐speaking community facilitator guided each discussion using a standardised questionnaire based on UK Department for International Development sustainable livelihoods framework asset categories. Women's experiences of working equids’ roles in their lives were audio‐recorded, transcribed in local language and key themes summarised in English.

Results

Twenty‐two discussions (7 in India, 5 each in Ethiopia, Kenya and Pakistan) comprising 259 women took place between February and October 2013. When asked to rank their livestock, all 12 groups in India and Kenya and 17 out of 22 groups overall ranked equids most important, due to their income generation and contribution to household chores, including transporting feedstuffs and water for other livestock species. Whilst specific responsibilities varied between communities, women reported undertaking many equine husbandry activities but lacked access to equine‐specific knowledge and skills training.

Conclusions

The study findings can inform development of targeted training interventions for female working equid owners and users. Further work is required to quantify the contribution to livelihoods of working equids in developing countries to underpin engagement with government stakeholders on the benefit of providing for their needs in animal health and welfare systems.

Ethical animal research: Not applicable, no animals were involved in this study. Sources of funding: The Brooke UK. Competing interests: None.
A Potential Novel Anthelmintic? The Cysteine Proteases Show Potent Anthelmintic Activity Against Cyathostomins In Vitro
Authors: Peachey L. , Matthews J. , Pinchbeck G. , Behnke J. , Burden F. , Hodgkinson J.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Anthelmintic resistance is a global problem and constitutes a major threat to the welfare of equids worldwide. The cyathostomins are the most numerous and pathogenic gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) of equids in the developed world. Cyathostomins show widespread resistance to 2 out of 3 of the major classes of anthelmintic and recently there are reports of reduced efficacy to the potent macrocyclic lactones (MLs). None of the 3 novel classes of anthelmintic that have emerged in the last decade are licensed for use in equids. The cysteine proteases (CPs) are plant proteins that have shown potent activity against GINs in vivo in sheep and pigs.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the anthelmintic effect of the CP papain on cyathostomins in vitro using the egg hatch assay (EHA) and larval migration inhibition test (LMIT).

Methods

Samples of cyathostomin eggs and third stage larvae were collected and cultured from a population of equids that have recently shown reduced ML efficacy in vivo. The EHA and LMIT were performed on repeated samples with increasing concentrations of papain. Dose–response curves were plotted and PROBIT analysis performed on the data to give EC‐50 values (concentration that gives 50% of the maximal response).

Results

Papain caused a dose dependent inhibition of both egg hatch and larval migration. The EC‐50 values were 2 μmol/l and 100 μmol/l in the EHA and LMIT respectively, indicating a more potent effect on egg hatch.

Conclusions

The CP papain shows potent anthelmintic activity against cyathostomins in vitro. Good evidence of anthelmintic effect against GINs in other host species is supportive of its potential use in equids. Further work is indicated to evaluate safety and in vivo efficacy.

Ethical animal research: The study was approved by the University of Liverpool and Donkey Sanctuary Ethics Committee. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Sources of funding: The Donkey Sanctuary, University of Liverpool – Institute of Infection and Global Health. Competing interests: None.
Can Real‐Time Tissue Elastography Be Used to Assess The Healing Process of Injured Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon in Horses?
Authors: Tamura N. , Asano H. , Kasashima Y.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Real‐time tissue elastography (RTE) can provide objective information associated with mechanical properties of tendon tissue and add value to the structural information obtained by greyscale ultrasound. Serial RTE assessment would be useful for monitoring and optimising safe rehabilitation for horses with tendon injury.

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that RTE could measure change in tissue stiffness in the healing process of injured superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) of horses.

Study design

Prospective field study.

Methods

Six Thoroughbred horses with SDFT injury and standardised rehabilitation were used. Both greyscale and RTE images were recorded approximately every 4 weeks up to 40 weeks from occurrence. Greyscale ratio (GR: dividing the grey‐value of injured area by it of surrounding noninjured area) and strain ratio (SR: dividing the strain value of stand‐off gel pad, which can be a standard, by it of injured area) was calculated at each examination. Tissue strain is displayed by colour which suggests hard (blue), intermediate (yellow), soft (red) on RTE image. Strain of injured area was evaluated by colour‐scale grade (CSG) of 1 to 3 (1; blue to green, 2; yellow and 3; red) by 3 veterinarians who didn't know the case history.

Results

GR was returned to nearly 1 quickly within 8 weeks and it was unchanged thereafter. This continuous change of GR was best‐fitted to logarithmic trendline (r2 = 0.66). SR increased gradually up to the last examination and was best‐fitted to linear trendline (r2 = 0.89). CSG was decreased gradually and it was best‐fitted to linear trendline (r2 = 0.84). Both change of SR and CSG suggested that an injured tissue would gradually increase in stiffness.

Conclusions

RTE could provide useful information regarding monitoring and optimising restoration of the tissue stiffness of tendon, even if GR was unchanged by progress of scar formation, for safer and more effective rehabilitation.

Ethical animal research: All animal procedures were approved by the Ethics Committee for Laboratory Animals of the Japan Racing Association Equine Research Institute. Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not stated. Sources of funding: Japan Racing Association Equine Research Institute. Competing interests: None.
Use of Standing MRI and a New MRI Grading System of the Subchondral Bone of the Distal Third Metacarpal Bone to Identify Bone Changes in the Thoroughbred Racehorse When Comparing 21 Cases of Catastrophic Biaxial Proximal Sesamoid Bone Fracture with 53 Controls
Authors: Peloso J.G. , Vogler J.B. , Cohen N.D. , Marquis P. , Hilt L.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Biaxial fracture of the proximal sesamoid bones (PSB) is the leading cause of fetlock failure resulting in euthanasia in Thoroughbred racehorses in California, Kentucky and Hong Kong. Identifying alterable risk factors to reduce biaxial PSB fractures could have a significant impact on reducing the occurrence of catastrophic failure of the fetlock (CFF).

Objectives

We hypothesised that standing MRI (sMRI) would identify a greater degree of bone change in Thoroughbred racehorses with CFF from biaxial PSB fracture when compared to controls.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Bone changes from Florida Thoroughbred racehorses with CFF due to biaxial fracture of the PSB (n = 21) were compared to controls (n = 53) using the sMRI. Data for control limbs were Florida racehorses that were subjected to euthanasia for reasons other than CFF (enteritis, pneumonitis, etc.). All forelimb fetlocks underwent sMRI imaging within 72 h of euthanasia. Bone scores were assigned to the subchondral bone (SCB) on the distal palmar aspect of the lateral and medial condyle of the third metacarpal bone (McIII) and the lateral and medial PSB. All information for analysis from sMRI images for cases and controls for all Thoroughbred racehorses was reviewed and collected by the lead author. The association between the dichotomous outcomes of PSB fracture with independent variables was assessed using bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis with significance set at P<0.05.

Results

The proportion of cases with >75% sclerosis of the ipsilateral lateral PSB (43%, 9/21) was significantly greater than that among controls (6%, 3/53). The proportion of cases with SCB lesion grade >3 of the contralateral palmar lateral condyle (29%, 6/21) was significantly greater than that among controls (0%, 0/53).

Conclusions

The sMRI identified a significantly greater degree of bone change in racehorses with PSB fracture compared to control horses. These identified changes may be useful as a screening tool to identify horses at increased risk of fetlock fracture during racing.

Ethical animal research: Explicit owner informed consent for participation in this study was not given but permission for post mortem examination was given by the Racing Authority. Sources of funding: None. Competing interests: No competing interests have been declared.
Use of Squeeze‐Induced Somnolence for Routine Plasma Administration in Healthy Neonatal Foals
Authors: Pickles K.J. , Madigan J.E. , Torske S. , Aleman M.R.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

A nonchemical method of restraint to facilitate neonatal foal handling and minimally invasive procedures would be highly useful.

Objectives

To investigate squeeze‐induced somnolence for providing adequate restraint of healthy neonatal foals for the purpose of plasma administration.

Study design

Prospective clinical study.

Methods

Squeeze‐induced somnolence of neonatal foals was performed by use of a soft rope restraint as previously described [1] to allow intravenous catheterisation and plasma administration. Physiological and clinical parameters were monitored pre‐, during and post squeeze‐induced somnolence.

Results

Squeeze‐induced somnolence and plasma administration was performed on 14 foals within the first day of life without any adverse effects. Mean time to recumbency during squeeze restraint was 53 s, mean time to stand and mean time to nurse from dam following release of restraint were 46 s and 163 s, respectively. Over 50% of foals gave some reaction to subcutaneous injection of local anaesthetic but only one foal reacted strongly. The restraint technique was performed without any difficulty in 8/14 foals, 5/14 foals became less somnolent latterly in the procedure (around 17–18 min) and one foal never became fully somnolent.

Conclusions

Squeeze‐induced somnolence provides adequate restraint for plasma administration, without the need for sedation, in the majority of neonatal foals. Squeeze‐induced somnolence can be used to allow nonchemical restraint of neonatal foals for routine procedures. Further refinement of the technique is required to maximise its potential usefulness.

Ethical animal research: The study was approved by the University of California Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. Foals were included in the study with informed owner consent. Sources of funding: Private anonymous donation. Competing interests: None.
Priorities in the communication needs of adolescents with psychosocial problems and their parents
Authors: Jager Margot , De Winter Andrea F. , Metselaar Janneke , Knorth Erik J. , Reijneveld Sijmen A.
Published: September 2014

Background

In patient‐centred care, professionals should recognize their patient's needs and adapt their communication accordingly. Studies into patients’ communication needs suggest priorities vary depending on sociodemographic characteristics, and type and severity of the complaints. However, evidence lacks on priorities in the communication needs of adolescents in psychosocial care and their parents.

Objective

To assess adolescents’ and parents’ importance ratings concerning affective communication, information provision, shared decision‐making, interprofessional communication and the degree to which client and care characteristics determine these.

Methods

Adolescents aged 12–18 (n = 403) and one of their parents (n = 403) rated the importance of communication before the psychosocial care process started. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was applied to determine which characteristics were associated with the 25% lowest importance ratings for communication aspects.

Results

Adolescents and parents considered affective communication to be the most important, with shared decision‐making the least important. For adolescents, lower importance ratings were associated with dissatisfaction with prior care (OR 1.8), negative expectations (ORs 1.9–2.4), emotional problems (ORs 0.2–0.5) and low prosocial behaviour skills (ORs 2.0). For parents, low education (ORs 1.7–1.8), negative expectations (OR 0.4), adolescent's hyperactivity/inattention (ORs 0.4–0.5) and low prosocial behaviour skills (ORs 1.8–2.6) determined lower importance ratings.

Conclusions

Affective communication has highest priority for adolescents and their parents. Client and care characteristics are associated with client priorities in communication. Being attentive to clients’ educational level, previous care experiences, current expectations and specific problem types might help professionals to adapt better to their clients’ communication needs.
A fall prevention guideline for older adults living in long‐term care facilities
Authors: Jung D. , Shin S. , Kim H.
Published: September 2014

Background

Falls are among the most frequent critical health problems for older adults over 65 years of age and often result in consequential injuries.

Aim

This study developed a guideline covering risk factors and interventions for falls in order to prevent them from occurring in long‐term care facilities.

Methods

This study was grounded in the methodological approach of the Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network for establishing evidence‐based guidelines: (1) establishment of the target population and scope of the guideline, (2) systematic literature review and critical analysis, (3) determination of the recommendation grade, (4) development of a draft nursing intervention guideline and algorithm, (5) expert evaluation of the draft nursing intervention guideline, and (6) confirmation of the final intervention guideline and completion of the algorithm.

Results

The resulting evidence‐based fall prevention guideline consists of a three‐step factor assessment and a three‐step intervention approach.

Limitations

The resulting guideline was based on the literature and clinical experts. Further research is required to test the guideline's feasibility in across long term care facilities.

Conclusion

This guideline can be used by nurses to screen patients who are at a high risk of falling to provide patient interventions to help prevent falls.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Considering the high rate of falls at long‐term care facilities and the absence of evidence‐based guidelines to prevent them, additional studies on falls at long‐term care facilities are necessary. Meanwhile, given prior research that indicates the importance of human resources in the application of such guidelines, continuous investigations are needed as to whether the research outcomes are actually conveyed to nurses.