bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Three Different Shoeing Conditions on Tendon Strain in the Thoroughbred Forelimb
Authors: Ault B. , Starling G. , Parkes R. , Pfau T. , Pardoe C. , Day P. , Bettison C. , Weller R. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyPrevious studies show the effect of toe or heel wedges on tendon strain but there is little understanding of the effect of other shoe types.ObjectivesTo quantify the effect of different shoeing conditions on the strain in the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT), deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT), distal check ligament (ALDDFT) and suspensory ligament (SL).Study designControlled experimental study.MethodsTwelve equine cadaver forelimbs were loaded onto a force plate mimicking stance phase. Markers were placed proximally and distally in each tendon structure and tracked using a motion capture system and strain was calculated. Tendon strain was determined for the following conditions: barefoot, glue on heart bar and aluminium racing plates with and without packing material. Data were analysed using a mixed effects model.ResultsSignificant variation in strain was observed between tendons. The DDFT had the lowest strain, then the ALDDFT, SDFT and SL. Glue on heart bar shoes significantly increased SDFT and SL strain compared to barefoot for the same leg force. Aluminium racing plates without packing material increased ALDDFT and SDFT strain and with packing material increased ALDDFT and SL.ConclusionsShoe selection should be based on minimising strain in the tendon with greatest injury risk. Aluminium racing plates with packing material may be most appropriate for the majority of racehorses as they do not significantly increase SDFT strain.Ethical animal research: Research ethics committee oversight not currently required by this conference: the study was performed on material obtained from an abattoir. Source of funding: The authors would like to thank the Horserace Betting Levy Board for their support of this project. Competing interests: None declared. Acknowledgements: We thank Peter Day, Carl Bettison, Chris Pardoe, Marianna Biggi and Emily Sparkes.
Yellow Fat Disease (Steatitis): Description of 20 Cases with Emphasis on Typical Ultrasonographic Findings
Authors: van Loon G. , Lefère L. , Bauwens C. , Kleyn K. , Broux B. , De Clercq D. , Deprez P. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing the studyYellow fat disease or steatitis is characterised by a local or general inflammation of fat tissue and is occasionally found in horses. Diagnosis is challenging because of the wide range of nonspecific clinical signs.ObjectivesTo describe clinical signs, treatment, outcome and ultrasonographic findings in horses with steatitis.Study designRetrospective study (January 2008 to January 2015).MethodsHistory, clinical signs, ultrasonographic findings, diagnosis, treatment and outcome were recorded.ResultsTwenty cases (18 horses, 2 donkeys; 9 mares, 9 stallions, 2 geldings) were retrieved from 13,707 patient records. Mean age was 1.6 (± 0.8) years (range 1 month–3.5 years). All cases appeared between October and February except for one (August). History included dullness, recumbency, decreased appetite and weight loss. Fever, ventral oedema, stiff/painful gait and painful neck were found. Low haematocrit, low vitamin E and selenium and increased levels of creatinine kinase and particularly lactate dehydrogenase were almost consistent findings. On ultrasound, ventral oedema was found. Subperitoneal, perirenal, mesenteric, coronary and caudal mediastinal fat showed homogenously increased echogenicity. Especially the subperitoneal fat was surrounded by oedema or free fluid. Increased amounts of abdominal, thoracic and pericardial fluid were often found. Fat biopsies were taken in the neck or from the retroperitoneal fat in the ventral flank. In all horses where fat biopsy was taken (n = 13), steatitis was confirmed. Treatment consisted of selenium and vitamin E (intra‐muscular injection followed by oral treatment) supplementation and anti‐inflammatory treatment (dexamethasone or prednisolone parenteral or oral) for at least 1–4 weeks. Fourteen animals (70%) survived. Full recovery took about 2–6 months.ConclusionsYellow fat disease may be underdiagnosed because of the nonspecific clinical signs. Ultrasound was extremely helpful for making a diagnosis. Recovery was rather slow but was achieved in 70% of the animals.Ethical animal research: Research ethics committee oversight not currently required by this conference: retrospective study of clinical records. Explicit owner informed consent for inclusion of animals in this study was not stated. Source of funding: Ghent University (institutional). Competing interests: None declared.
Factors Affecting Complication Rates with Subpalpebral Lavage Catheter Use in Horses
Authors: Cornelissen S. , Finding E. , Bowen I.M. , Bullard C. , Hallowell G.D. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studySubpalpebral lavage (SPL) systems are commonly used to facilitate treatment of ophthalmic conditions in the horse, are placed in differing positions and are associated with various complications.ObjectivesTo evaluate differences in complication rates between SPL placement in the upper vs. lower eyelid and factors associated with development of complications.Study designRetrospective, clinical study.MethodsClinical records from the Royal Veterinary College (2000–2013) were evaluated. Data collated included age, breed, sex, clinician, training, ophthalmic condition, pharmacological agents administered, catheter position, duration of placement, where the catheter was managed (hospital/home) and any complications observed. Data was initially interrogated using chi‐squared tests and then binary logistic regression models built to evaluate these factors.ResultsData was obtained from 135 horses aged 6 days to 30 years. Duration of SPL was 3–60 days (median 8; IQR 7–15). Complication rates were lowest for medicine residents (10%), when compared with interns (42%), medicine clinicians (27%) and surgeons (16%). There was no difference in complication rate between SPL management at home (15.4%) compared with the hospital (16.1%; P = 0.94). Position of catheter placement was influenced by stage of training (P = 0.04; boarded clinicians were more likely to place in lower eyelid) and associated with duration of treatment (P = 0.03; longer treatment times with SPLs in upper eyelid). Complications were associated with catheter position (P = 0.03; upper 12.8%; lower 22.2%), antimicrobial administration (P = 0.008; 13.2% when used; 25.0% when not) and plasma administration (P = 0.004; 30.4% when used; 13.0% when not).ConclusionsSubpalpebral lavage placement in the upper eyelid was associated with fewer complications. Use of antimicrobials appeared protective against complications and plasma should only be administered when indicated as it was associated with increased complications.Ethical animal research: This project was reviewed by the University of Nottingham Ethics and Welfare Committee. Explicit owner informed consent for inclusion of animals in this study was not stated. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
Basal Insulin and Insulin Dysregulation in Obese and Non‐Obese Andalusian Horses with and Without Cresty Neck
Authors: Martin Giménez T. , Aguirre Pascasio C.N. , de Blas Giral I. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyAndalusian horses have been proposed as a breed predisposed to equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) phenotype [1] because they are prone to exhibiting regional, generalised adiposity and tendency to laminitis [2]. Insulin dysregulation represents the main pathophysiological cause for all the features of EMS, however there are no epidemiological studies in this breed.ObjectiveTo assess insulin dysregulation through insulin proxies in Andalusian horses with different levels of obesity.Study designCross‐sectional study.MethodsOne hundred and sixty‐four Andalusians (78 stallions and 86 mares, 2–15 years) were scored for overall (body condition score, BCS) and neck (cresty neck score, CNS) adiposity. Grain concentrate was withheld for 12 h before sampling. Blood samples were collected between 06.00–10.00 h for basal glucose, insulin concentrations, RISQI and MIRG proxies calculation. Conditions were defined as: obese horses (Ob), BCS ≥ 7; cresty neck horses (CN), CNS ≥ 3; hyperinsulinaemia, insulin ≥20 μu/ml; low insulin sensitivity, RISQI<0.32[mu/l]−0.5 and increased insulin secretory response, MIRG>5.6muinsulin2/[10.l.mgglucose]. Regarding BCS 2 groups were created: Ob and non‐Ob. These groups were subdivided depending on CNS: with CN and without it (nonCN). Ob‐nonCN group (n = 2) was excluded for the statistics due to the low number of horses.ResultsOf the horses studied, 26.8% were Ob‐CN, 42.1% were nonOb‐CN and 31.1% were nonOb‐nonCN. Ob horses presented higher insulin levels (P = 0.034) and lower RISQI values (P = 0.019) than all nonOb horses. When CN was considered, only RISQI was lower (P = 0.015) in Ob‐CN group respect to nonOb‐nonCN, however nonOb‐CN group does not differ from the other 2 groups. Furthermore, the percentage of Ob‐CN horses with hyperinsulinaemia (2.3%), abnormal RISQI (4.5%) and MIRG (9.1%) was very low.ConclusionsThese results suggest that in Andalusians, increased adiposity was not clearly associated to insulin dysregulation and, similar to human beings, may coexist as a metabolically healthy but obese phenotype.Ethical animal research: Ethical University Committee approved all the procedures and owner informed consent was obtained. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
Triamcinolone Administration Does Not Increase Overall Risk of Developing Laminitis
Authors: Hammersley E. , Duz M. , Marshall J.F. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyTriamcinolone is commonly used in equine practice for the treatment of orthopaedic conditions. A serious potential adverse effect of triamcinolone is laminitis. However, evidence for the risk of laminitis associated with triamcinolone use is limited.ObjectivesTo determine the risk of laminitis within 90 days of triamcinolone administration and compare with the risk of laminitis in a veterinary‐attended horse population.Study designRetrospective study of clinical records.MethodsText mining and data extraction was performed using content analysis software (SimStat‐WordStat v.6) on a database of anonymous digital clinical records from a convenience sample of North American equine practices (n = 9). Medical records were retrieved using a dictionary of keywords for 3 groups of horses: 1) treated with triamcinolone, 2) age and practice matched control population (no triamcinolone) and 3) all laminitic horses. Records of horses within Groups 1 and 2 were mined for evidence of laminitis within a 90‐day period of treatment or a random date respectively. Data manipulation and analysis was performed using R v3.0.0 (R Development Core Team). The prevalence of laminitis within all groups was determined and relative risk of developing laminitis determined by single logistic regression.ResultsThe clinical records of 225,777 horses were examined. Overall prevalence of laminitis within the database was 1.1% (n = 2533). Triamcinolone was administered to 12.4% (n = 27,898) horses and 0.07% of treated horses (n = 20) developed laminitis. In the control population (n = 56,695), 0.2% of horses (n = 134) developed laminitis. The risk of developing laminitis was significantly lower in the triamcinolone treatment group than the control population (OR 0.3 95%CI, 0.18–0.48 P<0.001).ConclusionsTriamcinolone treatment does not increase the overall risk of a horse developing laminitis. However, further investigation of risk factors for laminitis in the 20 horses identified by this preliminary study is warranted to aid development of evidence‐based treatment guidelines.Ethical animal research: This study was approved by the Ethics and Welfare Committee of the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Glasgow. Owners gave informed consent for their horses' inclusion in the study. Sources of funding: John Crawford Endowment Fund, University of Glasgow. Competing interests: None declared.
An Anatomical Study of the Dorsal and Ventral Nasal Conchal Bullae in Normal Horses: Gross Morphology and Histological Features
Authors: Froydenlund T.J. , Dixon P.M. , Smith S.H. , Reardon R.J.M. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyThe morphology of the dorsal (DCB) and ventral (VCB) nasal conchal bullae, including their cellulae, drainage and histology, are poorly described. The recent recognition that these bullae can become infected, causing chronic unilateral nasal discharge has stimulated interest in these structures. A more complete understanding of their anatomy would be useful in the diagnosis and treatment of their disorders.ObjectivesTo document the structure, drainage and histology of the equine DCB and VCB.Study designDescriptive.MethodsFourteen fresh cadaveric horse heads, were transected sagittally midline and dissected to expose the nasal conchal bullae. The dimensions of each bulla, the number of drainage apertures, the number of cellulae and orientation of the septae were recorded. Representative samples were collected for histopathology.ResultsThe mean lengths of the DCB and VCB were 77.7 mm (range 48–105 mm) and 57.1 mm (range 34–86 mm) respectively; equivalent to 13.8% and 10.2% of skull length, respectively. The mean widths of the DCB and VCB were 28.5 mm (range 21–35 mm) and 28.2 mm (range 13–41 mm) respectively; equivalent to 5.1% and 5% of skull length respectively. The median number of drainage apertures from the DCB and VCB were 2 and 1 respectively. The median number of cellulae within the DCB and VCB were 3 and 2, respectively. No communications were identified between the DCB and VCB and the adjacent paranasal sinuses. Histology revealed that the bullae consisted of ciliated, pseudostratified, columnar epithelium supported by a glandular submucosa often overlying turbinate bone and, variably, hyaline cartilage.ConclusionsThe morphology of the equine nasal conchal bullae is quite variable. The DCB is generally a more complex structure than the VCB, containing more septae, cellulae and drainage apertures. This more detailed description of DCB and VCB anatomy will hopefully facilitate successful treatment of their disorders.Ethical animal research: Research ethics committee oversight not currently required by this conference: the study was performed on material obtained from an abattoir. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
Causes of Pleural Effusion in Horses in the UK
Authors: Johns I. , McParland T. , Mair T. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyPleural effusion (PE) is reported to occur most commonly secondary to bacterial pneumonia or lung abscesses, with neoplastic effusions contributing the minority of cases. The majority of these reports originate from America and Australia, where long distance transport of horses, a recognised risk factor, appears to occur more frequently. Anecdotally, neoplastic PE is more commonly diagnosed in the UK.ObjectivesTo describe the causes of PE in horses resident in the UK, and to identify potential markers that can help differentiate between infectious and neoplastic causes of PE.Study designRetrospective clinical study.MethodsMedical records from 4 referral hospitals in southern England were searched for horses diagnosed with PE. Information gathered from medical records included signalment, diagnosis (infectious vs. neoplastic), admission physical examination and biochemical findings, and characteristics of the effusion (volume, cell count, total protein [TP] concentration). Statistical comparisons were made between the neoplastic and infectious group using appropriate testing.ResultsSeventy horses were identified, of which 28 (40%) were neoplastic and 42 were infectious. Horses with infectious effusions were significantly younger (median 7 vs. 13 years; P = 0.002) and had significantly smaller volumes of pleural fluid drained at admission (9.8 vs. 32.3 l; P<0.001). Horses with infectious PE had a significantly higher rectal temperature (38.6 vs. 38.2°C; P = 0.03), fibrinogen concentration (7.8 vs. 5.7 g/l; P = 0.02) and serum amyloid A concentration (223 vs. 104 mg/l; P = 0.02). Pleural fluid characteristics identified a significantly greater cell count and TP concentration in horses with infectious PE (47 x 109/l vs. 3.4 x 109/l; P<0.001; 54 vs. 31 g/l; P = 0.001).ConclusionsThese results suggest that in the UK neoplastic effusions account for a greater proportion of PE than previously reported. A large volume of PE in an older horse with a low cell count and TP concentration should increase the index of suspicion of neoplasia.Ethical animal research: This was a retrospective study of clinical cases. Explicit owner informed consent for inclusion of animals in this study was not stated. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
Modeled transport of winter flounder larvae spawned in coastal waters of the Gulf of Maine
Authors: DeCelles Gregory , Cowles Geoffrey , Liu Chang , Cadrin Steven 
Published: September 2015

AbstractWinter flounder, Pseudopleuronectes americanus, from southern New England and the Gulf of Maine were historically considered to be obligate estuarine spawners. However, recent experiments and observations document that winter flounder in the Gulf of Maine also utilize coastal waters for spawning. An individual‐based modeling approach was used to investigate the transport of winter flounder larvae from three hypothesized coastal spawning grounds in the Gulf of Maine. Transport success rates were greatest for larvae released from Ipswich Bay, intermediate for Stellwagen Bank and least successful for those released from Jeffreys Ledge. There was substantial interannual variability in larval transport and geographic patterns of potential connectivity. Furthermore, the date of spawning had an important influence on transport success. Model results suggest that certain coastal spawning grounds used by winter flounder may serve as an important source of larvae to estuaries and nearshore nursery areas. The potential influx of coastal spawned larvae could have implications for the resilience, productivity and gene flow in local populations. Model results provide further support for the conclusion that winter flounder in the Gulf of Maine may not be solely dependent upon estuaries for spawning. Results also suggest that coastal spawning groups should be considered explicitly in the management of winter flounder, and protected under Essential Fish Habitat regulations.
An integrated assessment of the potential of agricultural and forestry residues for energy production in China
Authors: Gao Ji , Zhang Aiping , Lam Shu Kee , Zhang Xuesong , Thomson Allison M. , Lin Erda , Jiang Kejun , Clarke Leon E. , Edmonds James A. , Kyle Page G. , Yu Sha , Zhou Yuyu , Zhou Sheng 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBiomass has been widely recognized as an important energy source with high potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while minimizing environmental pollution. In this study, we employ the Global Change Assessment Model to estimate the potential of agricultural and forestry residue biomass for energy production in China. Potential availability of residue biomass as an energy source was analyzed for the 21st century under different climate policy scenarios. Currently, the amount of total annual residue biomass, averaged over 2003–2007, is around 15 519 PJ in China, consisting of 10 818 PJ from agriculture residues (70%) and 4701 PJ forestry residues (30%). We estimate that 12 693 PJ of the total biomass is available for energy production, with 66% derived from agricultural residue and 34% from forestry residue. Most of the available residue is from south central China (3347 PJ), east China (2862 PJ) and south‐west China (2229 PJ), which combined exceeds 66% of the total national biomass. Under the reference scenario without carbon tax, the potential availability of residue biomass for energy production is projected to be 3380 PJ by 2050 and 4108 PJ by 2095, respectively. When carbon tax is imposed, biomass availability increases substantially. For the CCS 450 ppm scenario, availability of biomass increases to 9002 PJ (2050) and 11 524 PJ (2095), respectively. For the 450 ppm scenario without CCS, 9183 (2050) and 11 150 PJ (2095) residue biomass, respectively, is projected to be available. Moreover, the implementation of CCS will have a little impact on the supply of residue biomass after 2035. Our results suggest that residue biomass has the potential to be an important component in China's sustainable energy production portfolio. As a low carbon emission energy source, climate change policies that involve carbon tariff and CCS technology promote the use of residue biomass for energy production in a low carbon‐constrained world.
The influence of climate on avian nest construction across large geographical gradients
Authors: Heenan C. B. , Goodman B. A. , White C. R. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractAimNest microclimate is a critical determinant of the survival and development of embryonic and juvenile birds. While abiotic variables such as temperature, precipitation and elevation will influence the conditions experienced by offspring within the nest, parent birds may also exercise some control through nest design and the selection of construction material. The aim of this study is to determine whether avian nest construction and the composition of nest construction material is influenced by geographical variation in climate. In addition, this study aims to address whether the correlation between nest construction and elevation highlighted by other studies is independent of the association between elevation and climate, or if other unmeasured variables are at play.LocationAustraliaMethodsWe measured the structural and thermal properties of 201 cup‐shaped nests, from 36 Australian passerine species, and related these to temperature, precipitation and elevation.ResultsThe rate of heat loss from avian nests is correlated with temperature, precipitation and elevation. Birds that construct nests in cool climates use well‐insulating materials irrespective of precipitation, while birds in warm climates use poorly insulating materials when exposed to high rainfall but not when exposed to low rainfall.Main conclusionsLocal climate influences the construction of nests, through modification of the materials used, and therefore the rate of heat loss from the nest as a whole. In many climates, birds use well‐insulating materials; however, birds breeding in warm and wet climates construct their nests with materials that have a higher thermal conductivity. Such nests are possibly less absorptive and able to dry out faster following a rain event, to restore the insulating function of the nest. These findings highlight the importance of studies over large geographical scales for understanding nest construction by birds.