bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric Properties of the Mentor Role Instrument when Used in an Academic Medicine Setting
Authors: Dilmore Terri Collin , Rubio Doris McGartland , Cohen Elan , Seltzer Deborah , Switzer Galen E. , Bryce Cindy , Primack Brian , Fine Michael J. , Kapoor Wishwa N.
Published: June 2010

The Ragins and McFarlin Mentor Role Instrument (RMMRI) was originally developed to measure perceptions of mentoring relationships in research and development organizations. The current study was designed to evaluate the RMMRI's reliability and validity when the instrument was administered to clinical and translational science trainees at an academic medical center. The 33‐item RMMRI was administered prospectively to a cohort of 141 trainees at the University of Pittsburgh in 2007–2008. Likert‐scale items focused on perceptions of five mentoring roles in the career dimension (sponsor, coach, protector, challenger, and promoter) and six mentoring roles in the psychosocial dimension (friend, social associate, parent, role model, counselor, and acceptor). Outcome items included overall perceptions of mentoring satisfaction and effectiveness. Of 141 trainees, 53% were male, 66% were white, 22% were Asian, and 59% were medical doctors. Mean age was 32 years. Analyses showed strong within‐factor inter‐item correlations (Pearson Coefficients of 0.57–0.93); strong internal consistency (Cronbach alphas of 0.82–0.97); confirmatory factorial validity, as demonstrated by confirmatory factor analysis of the two mentoring dimensions, 11 mentoring roles, and 33 RMMRI items; and concurrent validity, as demonstrated by strong correlations (Pearson Coefficients of 0.56–0.71) between mentoring dimensions, satisfaction, and effectiveness. This article concludes that the RMMRI shows reliability and validity in capturing the multidimensional nature of mentoring when administered to clinical and translational science trainees in the academic setting. Clin Trans Sci 2010; Volume 3: 104–108
The application of temperature measurement of the eyes by digital infrared thermal imaging as a prognostic factor of methylprednisolone pulse therapy for Graves’ ophthalmopathy
Authors: Shih Shyang‐Rong , Li Hung‐Yuan , Hsiao Yung‐Lien , Chang Tien‐Chun
Published: June 2010

Purpose:  Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) involves autoimmune process resulting in proptosis, congestion, oedema and diplopia. Werner’s NOSPECS classification and clinical activity score (CAS) of GO cannot objectively describe the inflammatory status. Digital infrared thermal imaging (DITI) detects local temperature and may reflect the degree of orbital inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical application of the eye temperature measured by DITI.

Methods:  Forty‐six patients with GO receiving intravenously methylprednisolone pulse therapy (MPT) were included in this study. Local temperatures of the lateral orbit, upper eyelid, inner caruncle, medial conjunctiva, lateral conjunctiva, lower eyelid and cornea were measured with DITI before and after MPT. CAS, proptosis, eye movement (EOM) and diplopia were also recorded. Improvement of CAS was defined as at least one point decrease at either side of the eye, which was 0.5 score decrease as to the average of bilateral CAS.

Results:  Local temperatures of the eyes decreased after MPT. The mean value of temperature (MT) of 12 points including the lateral orbit, upper eyelid, inner caruncle, medial conjunctiva, lateral conjunctiva and lower eyelid of both eyes before MPT was 32.65°. The mean change of MT after MPT (△T) was −0.22°. △T significantly negative‐correlated with basal MT (correlation coefficient = −0.54, p = 0.004). Higher baseline MT and CAS before MPT correlated with higher possibility of improvement of CAS after MPT (p = 0.013 and 0.012, respectively). Baseline MT and CAS together correlated with improvement of CAS after MPT better than baseline CAS alone could do (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: 82.81% and 66.63%, respectively).

Conclusions:  Basal temperature of the eyes measured by DITI was an objective indicator of inflammation of GO. Combining CAS and MT could better predict the outcome of MPT than CAS alone.
Examining Management Accounting Change as Rules and Routines: The Effect of Rule Precision
Authors: Coyte Rodney , Emsley David , Boyd David
Published: June 2010

This study examines change in management accounting practices as change in rules and routines. Informed by the institutional theory‐inspired framework of Burns and Scapens (2000), the rules and routines relating to capital expenditure controls in a capital‐intensive organisation are analysed. We explain how preciseness of rules affects not only the coupling of rules to routines, but also the emergence of multiple routines, enhancing the understanding of how management accounting practices remain stable and/or change over time. These results extend and refine recent research relating to management accounting change and offer new empirical insights into practice.
Data Envelopment Analysis: A Practical Tool to Measure Performance
Authors: Rouse Paul , Harrison Julie , Chen Li
Published: June 2010

This paper describes a productivity method, data envelopment analysis (DEA), and how it can be used to measure performance using multiple performance measures. DEA compares organisations or parts of organisations that share common goals and use similar resources to produce similar products, and calculates the technical efficiency with which firms convert bundles of inputs into bundles of outputs. DEA has been used in both public and private settings, and the paper describes some of its applications within Australasia. A case study of New Zealand dairy farms is used to demonstrate the benchmarking capability of DEA. While built upon solid theoretical foundations, DEA is essentially a practical tool that can be used by academics for research as well as by managers and practitioners for improved performance measurement and accountability.
Design, Economic Development, and National Policy: Lessons from Korea
Authors: Cho Dong‐Sung
Published: June 2010

In recent years, design has been a conscious and important element in Korea's growth strategy. Dong‐Sung Cho reviews the impressive outcomes linked to this decision and confirms that the “design revolution” continues. Indeed, it is evolving to provide significant future opportunities not only for global competition, but also as a force for improving the quality of life within Korea itself.
Ireland: Celtic Tiger Burning Bright
Authors: Dunne Jim
Published: June 2010

In an article written nearly 10 years ago, Jim Dunne analyzed Ireland's dilemmas as it attempted to build a robust and strong identity for its products and services. Here, he gives a progress report on the Brand Ireland initiative, a program renewed in 2002 to establish a sustainable international reputation for Ireland as an innovative, value‐added center for design talent.
Responsible Design and the Management of Ethics
Authors: Madsen Peter
Published: June 2010

In a reprise that reflects the significance and the timelessness of Peter Madsen's message, this article is reprinted from the Fall 1991 Design Management Journal. Madsen thoughtfully defines responsible design with respect to the activities of designers and design managers and their professional responsibilities. In addition, to get beyond the conceptual stage, he proposes 10 specific steps executives should take to translate responsible design into a corporate reality.
Foolproof Design Management Education
Authors: Kefallonitis Efstathios G.
Published: June 2010

From the standpoint of a brand expert, Efstathios Kefallonitis gives a broadbrush sketch of approaches to teaching around the globe. Then, building on this evaluation, he goes on to identify education challenges and suggests a model involving advice and support, instruction, and knowledge as pathways for reconciling the differences between design management theory and practice.
Antibiotic resistance and prudent use of antibiotics in veterinary medicine
Authors: Choraine P.
Published: June 2010

Antibiotic resistance is a very important topic that needs to be considered and appreciated by everyone who prescribes these drugs, for whichever species. Equine clinicians need to be aware of the background to the problem, which is laid out in this article contributed by Pierre Choraine of the FVE.
Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) intoxication as a suspected cause of transient hyperammonaemia and enteral encephalopathy in a pony
Authors: Vanschandevijl K. , Van Loon G. , Lefère L. , Deprez P.
Published: June 2010

Two ponies presented with mild abdominal pain and mild diarrhoea one hour after ingestion of roots of a black locust tree. On admission, symptoms had progressed to depression, weakness and the passing of dark, firm faeces. Treatment was symptomatic and supportive, aiming at the evacuation of the toxin from the gastrointestinal tract. One pony developed severe, reversible neurological signs associated with transient hyperammonaemia in the absence of liver disease. After 24 h the ammonia level returned to normal and central nervous signs disappeared. Both ponies recovered completely. This report describes the ingestion of black locust closely followed by the development of central nervous signs and hyperammonaemia. Increased ammonia absorption due to the intestinal wall inflammation caused by the toxins of the black locust tree, as well as increased ammonia production by enteric bacteria is therefore considered a plausible pathophysiological mechanism of the neurological signs displayed in black locust intoxication.
Effect of endometrial pathology on the success of non‐surgical embryo transfer
Authors: PASCOE D. R. , LIU I. K. M. , SPENSLEY M. S. , HUGHES J. P.
Published: June 2010

Endometrial pathology and prolonged infertility caused a marked reduction in embryo recovery from barren mares. Young maiden mares produced more embryos later, rather than earlier, in the breeding season. Recipient mares with a normal endometrium had a higher pregnancy rate (P<0.05) than recipient mares in which moderate endometrial pathology was observed. Minimal pregnancy loss occurred between the time of embryo transfer and Day 50 of gestation in recipient mares with normal endometria that had been closely synchronised with their respective donor mares.
Comparative studies of the maternal recognition of pregnancy
Authors: HEAP R. B. , WHYTE A. , SALAMONSEN L. , WANG M.‐W.
Published: June 2010

Of primary importance for the establishment of pregnancy is the maintenance or prolongation of corpus luteal function. In large domestic animals this is achieved by a blastocyst‐derived signal which disarms the uterine luteolytic mechanism some time before there is any structural association between embryonic and maternal tissues. This is not the case in all mammals because, in certain instances, maternal recognition of pregnancy, as defined by luteal response in terms of maintained or prolonged function, may correspond with the onset of nidation and even post date the time of attachment and implantation. Evidence for the importance of blastocyst‐derived signals and their intensity has been examined but the hypothesis requires further testing to elucidate the relationship between stimulus (signal) and response (luteal function). Studies of the mechanisms by which progesterone action can be blocked in early pregnancy currently focus on target cell epithelia in the uterus and the nature of surface antigens associated with the onset of the implantation process. To date, proof is lacking for a uterus‐specific growth factor with unique functions which forms an essential component of histotrophe; but there is substantial evidence that polypeptide growth factors are detectable at significant concentrations in the uterus. The development of specific peptide antagonists should help to reveal the functions of polypeptide mitogens in uterine physiology and their role in the complex cellular signalling and recognition that occurs between embryo and mother in the early stages of gestation (Brigstocket al1989).
Use of serial progesterone measurements to assess cycle length, time of ovulation and timing of uterine flushes in order to recover equine morulae
Authors: BOYLE M. S. , SANDERSON M. W. , SKIDMORE JULIAN , ALLEN W. R.
Published: June 2010

In 1987, as part of an embryo transfer programme to produce monozygotic twin foals, mares were flushed during the morning (09:30 to 13:30 h) of Day 6. Of 100 flushes, 48 embryos were recovered half of which were morulae. In 1988, in an attempt to increase the proportion of morulae, various flushing times between 17.00 h on Day 5 and the afternoon of Day 6 were used. For flushes carried out during the morning of Day 6, recovery rates were similar to those of the previous year. However, although the proportion of flushes resulting in the recovery of morulae was not significantly different for times between 23:00 h on Day 5 and 13:00 h on Day 6, the overall recovery rates for flushes on Day 6 were higher than those on Day 5. In addition, a number of mares that did not produce an embryo when flushed before 09:00 h on Day 6, were subsequently found to be pregnant when scanned at Day 18 suggesting that flushing had been carried out before arrival of the embryo in the uterus. To determine whether valid predictions could be made as to when to flush a mare to maximise recovery of morulae, a review of embryo recovery rates and plasma progesterone profiles of a large herd of mares over two breeding seasons was carried out. Mean plasma progesterone levels on the first three days after ovulation were higher for mares that produced embryos when flushed on Day 5 than for all other groups. Comparison of the results of previous flushes with the corresponding plasma progesterone profiles suggested that the characteristics of the post ovulation progesterone rise may have some value in deciding when a mare should be flushed. A review of the effects of uterine flushing, PGF2α and hCG on cycle length and ovulation time was also carried out in order to devise more efficient methods of herd management and ensure a supply of suitably synchronised recipient and donor mares at convenient times for embryo transfer experiments.
Are pony and larger mares similar as recipients for non‐surgical transfer of Day 7 embryos?
Authors: LAGNEAUX D. , PALMER E.
Published: June 2010

Non‐surgical transfer of equine embryos to nine recipient pony mares failed to result in any pregnancies whereas transfer of nine embryos to larger Selle‐Français recipient mares resulted in four pregnancies. Plasma progesterone profiles in the recipient and sham transfer control mares showed the occurrence of early luteolysis (before Day 12 after ovulation) in three of the nine recipient pony mares whereas luteolysis occurred at the normal time (Day 14 to 15) in the control mares and the non‐pregnant Selle‐Français and pony recipient mares. Daily plasma PGFM measurements showed the occurrence of PGF release on the day before luteolysis in all groups, except the recipient pony mares which underwent early luteolysis. In these animals, luteolysis occurred four days after the initial PGF release. PGFM profiles in closely timed serial blood samples taken on the day of transfer showed that cervical transfer induced PGF release from 1 min to 6 h after transfer in both breeds. This release was not directly responsible for non‐pregnancy in the pony recipient mares; in all three pony recipient mares which underwent early luteolysis, this immediate post‐transfer PGF release was followed by an additional release on the day after transfer. This suggests that the uteri of pony mares respond differently to those of larger mares with regard to mechanical stimulation of the cervix and/or bacterial or other types of endometritis. Clearly, pony and Selle‐Français mares are not similar as recipients for non‐surgical transfer of Day 7 equine embryos.
Pregnancy rates of cooled, transported equine embryos
Authors: COOK V. M. , SQUIRES E. L. , McKINNON A. O. , BAILEY J. , LONG P. L.
Published: June 2010

The ability to collect embryos and transfer them to another location has many advantages. The results of a field trial on the fertility of embryos cooled and stored in an Equitainer and transported by commercial airline to Colorado State University are presented. Time from embryo collection to transfer was generally less than 12 h, but ranged from 5 to 24 h. Cooling, storage at 5°C and/or transportation of embryos had no effect on embryo size and quality. Pregnancy rates at 15 and 50 days were similar (P>0.05) for fresh control embryos (20 of 26 and 17 of 26) compared to cooled embryos (20 of 24 and 18 of 24).
Cryopreservation of equine embryos in 1, 2 propanediol
Authors: SEIDEL G. E. , SQUIRES E. L. , MCKINNON A. O. , LONG P. L.
Published: June 2010

Embryos of good to excellent morphology were recovered 6.5 to 7 days after ovulation, washed in Dulbecco's phosphate‐buffered saline plus 10 per cent heat‐treated foetal calf serum (PBS), and placed in PBS plus 5 per cent 1, 2 propanediol for 5 mins followed by PBS plus 10 per cent 1, 2 propanediol for 10 to 20 mins. The embryos were then placed into 0.5 ml French straws, cooled initially to −6°C at 4°C/min, seeded and cooled further from −6°C to −33°C at a rate of either 0.3°C/min or 0.8°C/min. When straws reached −33°C they were plunged into liquid nitrogen. Within each cooling treatment, straws were thawed either in a 37°C water bath for 20 sees, or at ambient temperature in air. 1, 2 propanediol was removed in four steps, each step of 6 mins duration at room temperature. The thawed embryos were then cultured in Ham's F10 plus 10 per cent FCS in a 5 per cent CO2incubator at 38°C. After 48 h, the morphological appearance of the embryos was evaluated on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 = excellent, 5 = severely degenerate). Four embryos measuring 130 to 175 μm in diameter, 23 embryos measuring 200 to 945 μm and three embryos larger than 1000 μm were included in the experiment. All four of the small embryos showed good morphology at the end of the culture period (scores of 1.5 to 3.5) whereas none of the embryos larger than 1000 μm in diameter survived cryopreservation (all scores 5.0). Post‐treatment scores for the 23 embryos in the middle‐sized group (220 to 945 μm) ranged from 1.5 to 5.0. Rapid thawing was superior to slow thawing (p<0.07) for embryo quality after 48 h of culture, although the rapidly thawed embryos appeared to be more damaged immediately after thawing as determined by cracked capsules or zonae pellucidae, or embryos breaking into pieces. The rate of cooling had no significant effect on any response.
The equine fundus II: normal anatomical variants and colobomata
Authors: MATTHEWS A. G. , CRISPIN SHEILA M. , PARKER J.
Published: June 2010

A wide range of fundic variants are encountered during routine ophthalmoscopic examination of visually normal horses, often causing the examiner difficulty in assessing their clinical significance. Many of these are anatomical variants having no significant effect on visual function, and lie within the limits of normality in the horse. This paper illustrates this range of variants and discusses their anatomical basis and physiological consequences. Colobomata are non‐progressive discontinuities in the structure of the anatomic fundus, occasionally noted as incidental findings during ophthalmoscopy. This paper illustrates typical and atypical colobomata of the equine fundus, the latter occurring outside the embryonic optic fissure. The anatomical basis of these colobomata and their possible consequence on vision is discussed.
A comparative study of interval and conventional training in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: HARKINS J. D. , KAMERLING S. G. , BAGWELL C. A. , KARNS P. A.
Published: June 2010

Eight horses with previous racing experience were used in a comparative study of training methods for Thoroughbred racehorses. They were randomly assigned to two groups of four horses each. One group was trained using an interval training method (IT) and the other using conventional training (CT) methods. Peak heart rates, heart rate recovery curves, peak plasma lactate levels, plasma lactate clearance rates and run times were used to evaluate differences in the training methods. Peak heart rates, heart rate recovery curves, and run times were not significantly different between the groups. However, higher lactate production and increased plasma lactate clearance by the IT group demonstrated an increased anaerobic capacity.
The relationship between peak expiratory sound intensity and peak expiratory flow rate in the Thoroughbred horse during exercise
Authors: ATTENBURROW D. P. , FLACK F. C. , PORTERGILL M. J.
Published: June 2010

Peak expiratory sound intensity (dB SPL), obtained by means of a radiostethoscope, and peak expiratory flow rate, obtained using a mask incorporating a thermistor flow sensor, were measured in six Thoroughbreds over a range of stride rates from 100 to 140 strides per min. The results show linear relationships between peak dB SPL and stride rate, peak expiratory flow rate and stride rate and also between peak expiratory flow rate and peak dB SPL. Peak expiratory dB SPL can therefore indicate peak expiratory flow rate.
Quantification of skin displacement in the proximal parts of the limbs of the walking horse
Authors: VAN WEEREN P. R. , VAN DEN BOGERT A. J. , BARNEVELD A.
Published: June 2010

Displacement of skin over the underlying skeletal structures in the proximal parts of the limbs was investigated in four walking Dutch Warmblood horses. Movement of the skin was visualised with self adhesive spot labels whereas that of the skeletal parts was visualised indirectly by means of a plastic strip connected to a transcutaneous Steinmann pin, driven into the bone of interest. Consistent results for all four horses were found. Individual and mean total displacements ranged from 1 to 4 cm (distal scapula) to 13 to 17 cm (caudal part of the greater trochanter of the femur). Displacements of this magnitude are of considerable importance to the interpretation of results of modern gait analysis techniques.
Structural and developmental relationship between capsular glycoproteins of the horse (Equus caballus) and the donkey (Equus asinus)
Authors: ORIOL J. G. , BETTERIDGE K. J. , HARDY J. , SHAROM F. J.
Published: June 2010

In the present study, we have investigated the molecular structure and biosynthesis during development of the donkey capsule, which replaces the zona pellucida and envelops the conceptus during the 2nd and 3rd weeks of gestation, before uterine attachment, and compared it with that of the horse. Amino acid analysis of capsules from accurately aged donkey conceptuses indicated that the polypeptide backbone of the constituent glycoproteins was very similar in both species. Carbohydrate analysis and lectin histochemical staining showed that, as in the horse, the major sugars present were sialic acid, N‐acetylgalactosamine and galactose. However, the donkey capsule contained substantially lower amounts of sialic acid. Removal of the covalently‐bound O‐linked carbohydrate by β‐elimination indicated that the donkey capsule resembles that of the horse in being O‐glycosylated mainly on threonine residues. The dry masses of donkey capsules remained low between Days 8.5 and 11.5, and increased rapidly with blastocyst expansion up to Day 17.5, as in the horse. However, the maximum capsular weight attained in the donkey (2.5 mg) was only half that of the horse and the decline in capsule weight up to Day 22.5, shortly before its disappearance, was steeper and occurred earlier. A monoclonal antibody (OC‐1), which reacts with a developmentally regulated epitope in the horse capsule, cross‐reacted strongly with both the capsule and trophoblast in frozen sections of donkey conceptuses. The differences in OC‐1‐reactive antigen expression in the donkey trophoblast mirrored those observed for the increase in capsular dry mass. The biochemical and developmental similarities observed between the capsule of the donkey and the horse suggest that this structure has been highly conserved in equids.
Influence of embryonic secretory chemicals on selective oviductal transport in mares
Authors: WEBER J. A. , WOODS G. L.
Published: June 2010

Equine embryos are selectively transported from oviducts to uteri from 5 days 10 h to 5 days 22 h after ovulation. Selective transport appears to be initiated by a characteristic of equine oviductal embryos that is not present in unfertilised ova. To test the hypothesis that selective oviductal transport is initiated by stage‐specific secretion of embryonic chemicals, experiments were completed to identify chemicals whose secretion by embryos was temporally associated with oviductal transport, and which initiated oviductal changes that were consistent with oviductal transport. Day‐6 embryos incubated in vitro secreted minimal amounts of proteins, steroids and prostaglandin F2α, and relatively high amounts of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Embryonic PGE2 secretion was not detected on Day 3 or Day 4, was first detected on Day 5 and in larger amounts on Day 6. PGE2 bound specifically to equine oviducts on Days 2 and 5. Uterine entry of oviductal embryos was hastened in 6 of 11 mares by intraoviductal PGE2 treatment, but was not hastened by saline vehicle treatment or no treatment. These results support the hypothesis that embryonic PGE2 initiates oviductal transport in mares.
In‐vitro maturation of equine oocytes in co‐culture with granulosa and theca interna cells
Authors: OKÓLSKI A. , SLONINA DOROTA , BANASINSKA KATARZYNA
Published: June 2010

The ovaries of 173 mares were collected at slaughter from September 1991 to September 1992 and follicles (5–20 mm in diameter) were isolated and dissected to obtain oocytes for culture. Cumulus‐oocyte complexes (669) were cultured for 24, 30, 36, 42 or 48 h in medium alone (n = 319) medium plus 3 times 106 granulosa cells/ml (n = 133) medium plus 0.3 times 106theca interna cells/ml (n = 138) or medium plus 3 times 106granulosa cells/ml plus 0.3 times 106 theca interna cells/ml (n = 79). After culture cumulus cell expansion and stage of nuclear maturation were determined. The percentage of oocytes with full dispersion of cumulus cells was significantly higher from 24 to 42 h in culture with follicular cells, especially theca interna cells, than in culture with oocytes alone. The majority of oocytes reached full nuclear maturation after 30 h.
Physiological responses to the endurance test of a 3‐day‐event during hot and cool weather
Authors: KOHN CATHERINE W. , HINCHCLIFF K. W.
Published: June 2010

Physiological data were collected during two 3‐day‐event competitions: one (H) held in hot and the other (CL) in cool conditions. During H, ambient temperature and relative humidity were 2.5°C‐35°C and 74‐36% respectively, while during CL, ambient temperature and relative humidity were 7.8°C‐8.3°C and 46%‐41%, respectively. Rectal temperature, heart and respiratory rates were recorded on arrival at the event, at the end ofPhase Cand 6 min later, at the end ofPhase Dand for 30 min at 10 min intervals after each horse finishedPhase D(Recovery Period). Because of the heat, the rest‐pause during the Endurance Test was extended from 10 to 15 min for horses competing in H, and horses at H were aggressively cooled by repetitive bathing with ice water during the rest‐pause and the 30 min Recovery Period. Heart rate was significantly higher (P<0.05) at the end ofPhase Cin horses participating at H, as compared to those participating at CL. Heart rates were significantly decreased in both groups after 6 min in the rest‐pause and by 10 min after the finish ofPhase D.Rectal temperatures were significantly higher in horses competing at H than in those competing at CL at the end ofPhase Cand 6 min later, and at 10 and 20 min after the finish ofPhase D.In both groups, rectal temperatures decreased significantly during the first 6 min in the rest‐pause and at 10 and 20 min after the finish ofPhase D.Fifty‐five of 79 (69.6%) horses startingPhaseA at H completedPhase D, as compared to 23 of 28 (82.1%) of starters at CL (P>0.05). Of 10 horses eliminated during the rest‐pause at H, 3 were lame, 1 had exertional rhabdomyolysis, 4 were exhausted and 2 were lame and exhausted. Two horses were eliminated during the rest‐pause at CL: 1 was lame and the other had exertional rhabdomyolysis. There was marked individual variation in horses' responses to heat at H. Heat may have limited the effectiveness of evaporative cooling in horses at H, and resultant thermal stress probably contributed to exhaustion in horses unable to complete the Endurance Test. Aggressive cooling during the rest‐pause and the Recovery Period was important to facilitate heat dissipation in horses at H. These measures were not necessary at CL.
Kinematic analysis of the locomotion symmetry of sound horses at a slow trot
Authors: POURCELOT P. , DEGUEURCE C. , AUDIGIÉ F. , DENOIX J. M. , GEIGER D.
Published: June 2010

This study of the locomotion symmetry was undertaken to provide standard symmetry indices of a group of sound horses at the trot Using a 3D data collection system, the kinematics of the limb joints of 13 clinically nonlame horses were recorded while trotting in the standard conditions of the clinical lameness examination. A kinematic symmetry indice based on an inter‐correlation method was defined and applied to the vertical displacement‐time and joint angle‐time diagrams of the left and right joints of the horses. For each horse, the mean symmetry indice of each joint was calculated using values from 5 trials. For each joint, these means were then averaged. To evaluate the repeatability of the locomotion symmetry, the intra‐ and inter‐individual variabilities of the symmetry indices were studied.

The levels of symmetry of the markers of the trunk were generally lower than those of the limbs. Moreover, during the 5 trials these levels of symmetry were strongly variable but their mean values were very similar from one horse to another. In our experimental conditions the trunk presented a higher degree of freedom than the limbs. This high infra‐individual variability indicated also that several trials are necessary to quantify the locomotion symmetry of a trotting horse.

In the same way, a lower level of symmetry of the hindlimbs, compared to the forelimbs, was proved by their lower values of symmetry indices. As opposed to the supporting role of the forelimbs, the propulsive role of the hindlimbs may explain this feature.
Gait analysis in laying hens and broilers with and without leg disorders
Authors: REITER K. , BESSEI W.
Published: June 2010

Selection of broiler strains for high body weight has changed the anatomical characteristics and in connection to that, the pattern of locomotion. In addition, rapid growing broilers show a high incidence of leg disorders which compromise the walking ability of the birds. Differences in the patterns of locomotion between laying hens and broilers and between broilers with and without leg disorders can be demonstrated and quantified by gait analysis. The gait pattern was recorded by videotracking. Three points of the body ‐ the cloacal region and both feet joints ‐ were marked by small patches of reflecting foils. The vertical and horizontal movements of the marked points were recorded by a camera in posterior position, while the bird was walking on a treadmill. The camera was connected with a PC‐operated videotracking system1. The vertical and horizontal movements of the 3 marked points were recorded simultaneously and plotted against the time axis. Kinetograms show clearly the differences in the walking pattern between broilers and layers. Layers place the legs directly under the centre of gravity and, therefore, the body moves in a straight line. Broilers, in contrast, move the centre of gravity step by step laterally towards the position of the supporting leg. This pattern may be caused by the anatomical characteristics of broilers. Limping in broilers with leg problems can be measured by differences in the lateral and vertical movements of the right and left leg.
Cumulus expansion, chromatin configuration and meiotic competence in horse oocytes: A new hypothesis
Authors: HINRICHS KATRIN
Published: June 2010

When recovered from the follicle, horse oocytes may be categorised as having either a compact or an expanded cumulus. Cumulus expansion is strongly associated with follicle atresia. Oocytes with expanded and compact cumuli have similar proportions in the germinal vesicle stage when recovered from the follicle. However, duringin vitroculture, a higher proportion of oocytes with expanded cumuli mature, and they do so more quickly, than do oocytes with compact cumuli. Using Hoechst 33258 to label chromatin, in the germinal‐vesicle stage horse oocytes can be divided into those in which the nucleus fluoresces diffusely (FN), and those in which the chromatin is condensed as a mass within the germinal vesicle (condensed chromatin; CC). The CC configuration is more common in oocytes with expanded rather than compact cumuli. The occurrence of the condensed chromatin configuration in oocytes with compact cumuli rises with increasing follicle size to the point that, in follicles >20 mm diameter, almost 80% of oocytes with compact cumuli have condensed chromatin. This suggests that the chromatin of fully grown oocytes condenses prior to the gonadotropin stimulation that induces ovulation. The number of oocytes maturingin vitrocorrelates strongly with the presence of the condensed chromatin configuration at the beginning of culture for both cumulus types. This suggests that the condensed chromatin configuration represents the meiotically competent oocyte. In contrast, FN oocytes appear to be meiotically incompetent, although 61% of oocytes from small, apparently viable follicles, have the FN configuration. This leads to the hypothesis that the FN configuration represents viable germinal vesicle stage oocytes that have yet to acquire meiotic competence. As oocytes achieve meiotic competence, the chromatin appears to condense to the CC configuration. This change occurs during growth of the preovulatory follicle but it can also occur during follicular atresia. Information about the inherent meiotic competence of different populations of oocytes will assist in the selection of oocytes for experiments involvingin vitromaturation and fertilisation in equids.
Distribution of putative primordial germ cells in equine embryos
Authors: CURRAN S. , URVEN L. , GINTHER O. J.
Published: June 2010

Eighteen equine embryos, 3 each on Days 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 post ovulation, were collected transcervically by uterine lavage, fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde and embedded in paraffin wax. Ten micron serial sections were stained to determine alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity in the cells. Positive cells were counted and their approximate location determined. The cells were approximately 8 μm in diameter and the entire cell, except the nucleus, stained strongly with many small round areas of intense staining in the cytoplasm. The cells varied from round to elongated in shape and pseudopodia were often present. Thus, they were similar in shape and staining pattern to primordial germ cells described in other species.

A total of 2 AP‐positive cells were found in the 3 Day 20 embryos and the mean number of AP‐positive cells changed (P < 0.05) over the succeeding days as follows; Day 20 = 1; Day 22 = 251; Day 24 = 1484; Day 26 = 2385; Day 28 = 3267; Day 30 = 2424. AP‐positive cells present in the liver were not included in the calculations. In the Day 22 embryos, 10% of the putative primordial germ cells were found within the vascular system, including the heart chambers, and only 4% were found along the genital ridge. The percentage of cells found in the vascular system decreased from 10% on Day 22 to 1% on Day 30, although not significantly. The percentage of cells found along the genital ridge changed (P < 0.05) over gestational age as follows; Day 22 = 4%; Day 24 = 10%; Day 26 = 28%; Day 28 = 28%; Day 30 = 16%. Once the putative primordial germ cells reached the developing gonads they were no longer AP‐positive and nor was the gonadal stroma. The rest of the cells were distributed along the dorsal mesentery (range, 14–24%), near the dorsal aorta (16–29%), in the mesonephros (1–3%) and in other areas of the embryo (27–44%). Large numbers were in the cranial portion of the embryo.

Although it is likely that the population of AP‐positive cells counted included the primordial germ cells, other cells, such as haematopoietic precursor cells, could not be ruled out. The AP reactivity, the appearance of the cells and their migratory pattern through the dorsal mesentery to the gonadal ridge were consistent with descriptions of primordial germ cells in other species. Their distribution throughout the embryo, especially its cranial aspect and their location within, or in close proximity to, blood vessels suggested that the equine embryo is unusual among mammals in that some of its primordial germ cells migrate through the blood.
Fetal development of the white line (Zona alba) of the equine hoof
Authors: BRAGULLA H. , BUDRAS K.‐D. , REILLY J. D.
Published: June 2010

The fetal development of the white line (Zona alba) in the equine hoof is described. Its specific structure of lamellar and interlamellar horn, which in turn is composed of cap and terminal horn, is formed in the second half of the hoof's fetal development. In equine fetuses with a crown‐rump length of less than 550 mm, the hoof capsule lacks a 'characteristic' white line since no borders between stratum medium, stratum internum and sole horn are discernible.

In the hoof of an equine fetus with a crown‐rump length of 550 mm, a narrow white line has taken shape. Its shallow lamellae are arranged like arcades. Between the horn lamellae lie the polyhedral cells of the interlamellar horn. Up until birth, the height of the horn lamellae and, therefore, the width of the white line increases significantly. In the white line of the hoof of newborn foals, the terminal horn contains horn tubules with a characteristic architecture.
Effect of a supplementary dietary evening primrose oil mixture on hoof growth, hoof growth rate and hoof lipid fractions in horses: a controlled and blinded trial
Authors: REILLY J. D. , HOPEGOOD L. , GOULD L. , DEVISMES L.
Published: June 2010

The lipid chemistry of the normal equine hoof, together with the effect of oral supplementation with an evening primrose oil mixture (EPOM) on its growth, growth rate and lipid content was assessed in a controlled and blinded feeding trial at the Defence Animal Centre. Twelve horses were paired as closely as possible according to sex, age, weight, height and colour and then one from each pair was randomly allocated to treatment or control groups. The treatment group received 30 ml of oral EPOM/day, otherwise the nutrition and management regimes were the same for all horses. No significant differences (P>0.05) were seen between treatment and control groups for hoof horn growth or growth rate. However, there was a significant difference (P<0.05) in hoof horn growth within the treatment group only between weeks 4 and 8 after the start of supplementation. Thestratum mediumcontained significantly higher amounts of cholesterol ester (P<0.05), triglycerides (P<0.001) and free fatty acids (P<0.05) than the periople. The periople contained significantly higher levels of free cholesterol and phospholipid (P<0.001) than thestratum mediumof the hoof wall. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) between treatment and control groups for any of the lipid fractions measured for thestratum mediumfrom the clippings of the hoof wall. However, there were differences in perioplic lipid analysis with significant increases (P<0.05) in cholesterol esters and partial glycerides and a significant reduction (P<0.001) in free cholesterol in the treatment group following supplementation.
The development of equestrianism from the baroque period to the present day and its consequences for the welfare of horses
Authors: ÖDBERG F. O. , BOUISSOU M.‐F.
Published: June 2010

Many saddle horses are slaughtered at a young age which could be indicative of a welfare problem. Bad riding is probably an underestimated source of poor welfare. Widespread knowledge of ‘academic’ riding should be encouraged and should be beneficial to all horses, at all schooling levels, for all purposes. In particular, 18th century principles tend to be forgotten and in this article the authors illustrate some differences to modern dressage. Various suggestions are made in order to improve welfare.
Efficacy of omeprazole paste in the treatment and prevention of gastric ulcers in horses
Authors: ANDREWS F. M. , SIFFERMAN R. L. , BERNARD W. , HUGHES F. E. , HOLSTE J. E. , DAURIO C. P. , ALVA R. , COX J. L.
Published: June 2010

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is very common among performance horses, with a reported prevalence of approximately 90% in racehorses, and also >50% in foals. Omeprazole, an acid pump inhibitor 5 times more potent than ranitidine, has been used with great success to treat EGUS. This multicentre study of Thoroughbred racehorses with endoscopically verified gastric ulcers was designed to demonstrate the efficacy of an equine oral paste formulation of omeprazole in the treatment and prevention of recurrence of EGUS. Of the 100 horses entered into the study, 25 were sham‐dosed for the full 58 days of the study. The remaining 75 horses all received omeprazole paste, 4 mg/kg bwt/day once daily for 28 days. At Day 28, 25 of treated horses continued on this dosing regimen while 25 received a half dose (2 mg/kg bwt once daily) and 25 horses were sham‐dosed. By Day 28, gastric ulcers were completely healed in 77% of omeprazole‐treated horses, while 92% were significantly (P<0.01) improved. In contrast, 96% of the sham‐dosed horses still had gastric ulcers at Day 28. The improvement was maintained in horses that continued on either a full dose or half dose of omeprazole paste until Day 58. However, in those horses that were removed from omeprazole treatment at Day 28, the incidence and severity of the gastric ulcers at the end of the study were similar to those horses that did not receive the omeprazole paste. This study demonstrates that omeprazole paste, 4 mg/kg bwtper os, once daily, is highly effective in healing gastric ulcers in Thoroughbred racehorses and that either a full dose or half dose of omeprazole paste effectively prevents the recurrence of EGUS. The study also indicates that gastric ulcers in untreated horses did not demonstrate a significant rate of spontaneous healing.
Treatment of gastric lesions in horses with pectin‐lecithin complex
Authors: VENNER M. , LAUFFS S. , DEEGEN E.
Published: June 2010

This study compared the study of a pectin‐lecithin complex (Pronutrin)1 on gastric ulcer healing during an 11 day period in 2 groups of 12 horses each. Twenty‐four horses suffering from gastric lesions of differing severity were selected from a larger group of clinical cases on the basis of gastroscopic examination. Both gastric mucosal erosions as well as gastric ulcers were found in the 2 mucosal regions (pars nonglandularis and pars glandularis). The gastric mucosal lesions occurred predominantly in the pars nonglandularis in the vicinity of the margo plicatus. The 24 horses were divided equally into a treated group (Group A) and a control group (Group B). Twelve horses in Group A received Pronutrin, in a dose of 300 g/horse/day over a period of 10 days, whereas horses in Group B received no active substance. Gastroscopic examination was performed on Days 0 and 11. The degree of severity of the gastric erosions or gastric ulcers was evaluated independently in the 2 mucosal regions with the aid of a scoring system. Group A horses showed good acceptance of the product and no side effects were recorded. After the 10 day treatment phase, Group A showed a marked reduction in gastric mucosal lesions or disappearance of lesions, while untreated horses showed no change or, even, a deterioration on Day 11. Statistical calculation of efficacy revealed a highly significant reduction in gastric mucosal lesions in the pars nonglandularis and a significant reduction in gastric mucosal lesions in the pars glandularis in the treated horses. It would appear, however, that the treatment period of 10 days was too short, since the gastric mucosal lesions had often not completely healed in all horses. The results of this study in 24 horses with gastric lesions suggest that a pectin‐lecithin complex can have a beneficial effect on the healing of gastric ulcers.
In vivo transmission of impact shock waves in the distal forelimb of the horse
Authors: GUSTÅS P. , JOHNSTON C. , ROEPSTORFF L. , DREVEMO S.
Published: June 2010

There is a high prevalence of lameness among Standardbred trotters, most commonly caused by noninfectious joint diseases, mainly related to training and competition. In this context, impact‐related shock waves transmitted through the skeleton and joints have been proposed to be one important factor in the development of osteoarthritis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the characteristic pattern of the events immediately following first contact, with a focus on thein vivotransmission of impact shock waves in the distal forelimb.

Two horses were trotted by hand over a force plate. Recordings of 3‐D kinematics of the distal forelimb were carried out by use of a 240 Hz video system. Tri‐axial accelerometer data were collected from a bone‐mounted accelerometer on the midlateral side of the third metacarpal bone (McIII) and from another accelerometer attached to the lateral side of the hoof. Force plate and accelerometer data were sampled at 4.8 kHz using a 16‐bit A/D‐converter, synchronised with the kinematic data. The results indicate that the time lapse of the horizontal retardation of the hoof is an important factor in the attenuation of the impact. A shorter period of hoof braking showed higher amplitudes in the longitudinal retardation of McIII and a more rapid oscillation. This makes all parameters that affect the horizontal hoof braking potentially important to the orthopaedic health of the horse.
The effect of shoe material on the kinetics and kinematics of foot slip at impact on concrete
Authors: PARDOE C. H. , McGUIGAN M. P. , ROGERS K. M. , ROWE L. L. , WILSON A. M.
Published: June 2010

Previous studies on shoeing have demonstrated that shoe material alters the time taken from foot impact to the foot stopping sliding (slip time) and the distance slid. These are assumed to reflect differences in the craniocaudal ground reaction force (GRF) between the shoe and the ground during foot slip. This study tested the hypothesis that the slip time and distance are reflected in the resistance to slippage of the foot after impact.

The forefeet of 8 horses were shod in horseshoes constructed of steel, plastic and rubber. Each horse was trotted for 8 placements per forefoot in each shoe type over a concrete topped forceplate and simultaneous kinematic data recorded at 240 Hz. Slip distance and slip time were calculated from the kinematic data and craniocaudal (Fy), and vertical (Fz) GRFs determined during slip and averaged for each shoe type.

The slip time and distance were variable between runs in all 3 shoe types, and there was no significant difference between the mean values for the 3 shoe types. Fy reached a value of 0.98 0.17 N/kg during slip in the plastic shoes which was significantly lower than the rubber shoes, at 1.13 ± 0.17 N/kg, P = 0.02. The Fy/Fz ratio (a measure of dynamic friction) was significantly lower in the plastic shoes, 0.34 ± 0.08, compared to the steel shoes, 0.46 ± 0.04, P = 0.003.

This study is being extended to investigate effects of shoe slippage at the end of the stance phase and the energy dissipation during foot slip in the different shoe types. Future investigations should aim to identify the optimum slip characteristics to modulate loading (magnitude and rate) during impact, with the aim of reducing the risk of injury.