bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Goniometric Measurement of Limb Stiffness: Validation of a Potential Predictor of Tendon Healing
Authors: Tucker R. , Jacklin B.D. , Gillespie S. , Vaughan L. , Fiske‐Jackson A.R. , Smith R.K. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyInjury to the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) is common in equids, with a high risk of re‐injury associated with changes in tendon stiffness. In vivo measurement of limb stiffness has been shown to correlate with tendon stiffness after injury [1] but requires kinematic analysis which is impractical in a clinical setting. We have developed a simple system for measuring limb stiffness statically, which could be used as a tool for monitoring SDFT healing.ObjectivesTo validate a goniometric measurement of limb stiffness.Study designCross sectional study.MethodsInitially, forelimb stiffness indices were determined at the walk for 6 equids using a validated kinematic analysis [1]. Limb stiffness indices were then calculated using portable floor scales to record ground reaction force (GRF), and an electrogoniometer to record metacarpophalangeal joint angle. Goniometric limb stiffness indices were subsequently measured in 11 horses ranging from 2 to 20 years of age, with no clinical evidence of SDFT injury. Strength and significance of correlation and agreement between the measurement methods was assessed and association between limb stiffness, limb (left vs. right), weight and age of horse and were calculated.ResultsThere were strong positive correlations between GRF and joint angle (R2 = 0.98) and between the static and kinematic methods (R = 0.78, P<0.01). There was a positive correlation between limb stiffness and weight (R2 = 0.85, P<0.01), but no association with age or limb.ConclusionsThis study validated the measurement of limb stiffness in a clinical setting. The positive correlation of limb stiffness and weight supports the theory of an optimised limb spring [2] for energy‐efficient cursorial locomotion which may, in turn, provide a clinically‐relevant measure of running efficiency and therefore the quality of tendon healing post injury.Ethical animal research: Owner consent was obtained. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
What Effect Does Medium and Extended Trot Have on the Kinematics of the Forelimb in Dressage Horses?
Authors: Walker V.A. , Tranquille C.A. , Dyson S.J. , Newton R. , Murray R.C. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyMetacarpophalangeal joint hyperextension overload is increasingly being recognised in dressage horses and, like forelimb suspensory ligament injury, tends to be seen in horses with extravagant trot steps. However, there is limited understanding of the effects of different paces within the trot on forelimb movement, therefore it is difficult to advise rationally on prevention or management of these types of injury.ObjectivesTo compare forelimb kinematics of collected and medium or extended trot in dressage horses.Study designProspective study.MethodsTwenty mixed‐breed dressage horses (age 9 ± 4 years; height 168 ± 6 cm; weight 600 ± 63 kg; median competition level = advanced medium) were tested at collected and medium/extended trot (age and training level dependent) in a straight line on an artificial surface ridden by their own rider at sitting trot. Four strides of each pace were recorded using high speed motion capture (240 Hz). Markers were placed on the horses' forelimbs at predetermined anatomical sites. Fetlock, carpus, elbow and shoulder angles were derived at midstance. Descriptive statistics and mixed effect multilevel regression analyses were performed on the data.ResultsFetlock extension angle was significantly increased at medium compared with collected trot (coefficient: 5.70; CI 2.58–8.82; P<0.01) and extended compared with collected trot (coefficient: 8.59; CI 5.16–12.02; P<0.01). Fetlock extension angle was significantly increased when carpus extension angle (coefficient: 0.61; CI = 0.4–0.82; P<0.01) and shoulder flexion angle were increased (coefficient: 0.18; CI 0.01–0.33; P<0.05).ConclusionsFetlock extension increased when the horses performed lengthened trot paces, more in extended than medium trot. The loading of the carpus and shoulder were related to fetlock extension, suggesting that lengthened paces affect the loading of the entire forelimb. Lengthened paces may be contraindicated in horses with fetlock hyperextension or suspensory ligament injury; they may be a potential risk factor for these injuries. Interaction with the surface could also have a role that could be further investigated.Ethical animal research: The study was approved by the Animal Health Trust ethical review committee. Owners gave informed consent for their horses' inclusion in the study. Sources of funding: Elise Pilkington Charitable Trust, Dr Wilfrid Bechtolsheimer, British Dressage. Competing interests: None declared.
The Effect of Obesity and Endocrine Function on Foal Birthweight in Thoroughbred Mares
Authors: Smith S. , Marr C.M. , Menzies‐Gow N.J. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyThe birthweight of Thoroughbred foals has increased in recent years. It is unknown whether this is associated with increased broodmare obesity or endocrine dysfunction.ObjectivesTo determine insulin, leptin and triglyceride concentrations in obese and non‐obese Thoroughbred mares throughout gestation and to investigate their association with foal birthweight.Study designProspective, cohort study.MethodsFifty‐seven pregnant Thoroughbred mares were included in the study. From 40 days post‐breeding, body condition score (BCS), weight and venous blood samples were obtained every 60 days throughout gestation. Feed was withheld for 6 h before blood sampling. Serum/plasma insulin, leptin and triglyceride concentrations were measured using validated/standard methods. Foal birthweight was recorded. Association of hormone or triglyceride concentration with time, BCS and birthweight were analysed using a linear mixed effects model. A Pearson correlation co‐efficient was calculated between hormone or triglyceride concentration, BCS and birthweight.ResultsSerum insulin concentrations were significantly greater (P<0.05) at 0–59 days compared with 240–299 days and at 60–119 days compared with 180–359 days gestation. 55% of mares had BCS ≥ 7. There was 1.5% incidence of fasting hyperinsulinaemia throughout gestation and no association of fasting insulin concentration with BCS. Leptin concentration was significantly (P<0.0001) greater at 180–239 days compared with all other time points and was significantly (r = 0.29, P<0.0003) correlated with BCS. Triglyceride concentration was significantly (P<0.02) greater at 240–299 days compared with earlier time points but was not associated with BCS. Foal birthweight was significantly positively correlated with BCS (r = 0.13, P<0.001) and inversely correlated with leptin concentration at 60–119 days and 240–299 days gestation (r = −0.64, P<0.05).ConclusionsMare BCS correlated with foal birthweight such that obese mares had heavier foals. Significant fasting hyperinsulinaemia was not identified in this population. Increased leptin concentration in early and late gestation was associated with decreased foal birthweight and may be useful to predict foal birthweight.Ethical animal research: Informed client consent was obtained for all animals used in the study. Source of funding: Private donor. Competing interests: None declared.
Effects of Time of Day, Ambient Temperature and Relative Humidity on the Repeatability of Infrared Thermographic Imaging in Horses
Authors: Satchell G. , McGrath M. , Dixon J. , Pfau T. , Weller R. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyInfrared imaging is becoming popular as an aid to traditional diagnostic tools, its repeatability under practically relevant conditions is still discussed.ObjectivesWe hypothesise that time of day, ambient temperature and relative humidity affect thermography readings, and that there is no difference between values from left and right side.Study designRepeated thermography in a convenience sample.MethodsFifteen sound horses were thermographically imaged at 3 time points in the same day (08.00, 12.00 and 16.00 h). Images were taken of the following regions: neck, carpus, distolateral thoracic limbs (cranial and tendon areas), thoracolumbar, pelvis, hock and pelvic limb tendons. Relative humidity and ambient temperature were recorded for each session.ResultsThere was a significant difference between the temperature readings during the 3 imaging sessions in all areas (Friedman and Kruskal–Wallis; all P<0.014). Ambient temperature and relative humidity correlated with thermography readings in the caudal imaging areas (P<0.008 [temperature], P<0.032 [humidity]) of the horses, with an exception of one hock reading, but not in all cranial areas (P<0.365 [temperature], P<0.992 [humidity]) (Spearman's Rho). All but 2 regions (minimum values in the carpus and thoracic tendon areas in the morning session, (P = 0.033, 0.034) did not show significant difference between left and right sides at the same time of day (all P>0.057).ConclusionsTime of day, ambient temperature and relative humidity must be considered when using infrared imaging. Variations between the left and right sides of the horse can occur and should be considered during the analysis of pathological asymmetry.Ethical animal research: Ethical approval was granted from the Royal Veterinary College Ethics and Welfare committee as part of the first and second author's final year research project. Source of funding: Funding was provided by the Royal Veterinary College as part of the first and second authors' final year research project. Competing interests: None declared.
Diffusion of Radiodense Contrast Medium after A Mid‐Pastern Ring Block
Authors: Malton R. , Nagy A. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyDiffusion of local anaesthetic solution after a mid‐pastern ring block has not been investigated.ObjectivesTo demonstrate potential distribution of local anaesthetic solution following injection of radiodense contrast medium as performed for a mid‐pastern ring block.Study designExperimental.MethodsTwelve mature horses were used. One and a half ml radiodense contrast medium was injected over the medial or lateral palmar digital nerve at the level of the proximal aspect of the ungular cartilages. A dorsal ring block was performed on the ipsilateral side, 1.5 cm proximal to the palpable palmar aspect of the proximal eminence of the middle phalanx, using 2 or 5 ml contrast medium. Both forelimbs were injected on 2 days (48 injections). Four standard radiographic views of the pastern were obtained immediately, 10 and 20 min after injections. Images were analysed subjectively and objectively.ResultsAfter dorsal injections the contrast medium was distributed in a diffuse patch over the ipsilateral half of the proximal phalanx (PP), extending proximally over the half of the length of PP in all limbs (greatest proximal extension: 89.0% of the length of PP [from distal] after 2 ml, 94.2% after 5 ml). There was significant proximal diffusion in the first 10 min after injection and significant dorsal diffusion between all time points (P<0.01). There was significant positive association between injected volume and the proximal extension of the dorsal contrast patch (P = 0.01). The median dorsal diffusion was to the dorsal midline of PP; 5 ml contrast medium resulted in significantly greater dorsal diffusion than 2 ml (P<0.01). The dorsal and the palmar contrast patches did not merge.ConclusionsDiffusion to the proximal aspect of P1 occurred even after injection of only 2 ml contrast medium. Fetlock region pain may be influenced by a mid‐pastern ring block.Ethical animal research: Written consent had been obtained from a representative of the horses' owner prior to starting the study. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
The Use of Electromyography Including Interference Pattern Analysis to Determine Muscle Force of the Deep Digital Flexor Muscle in Case of Equine Laminitis
Authors: Hardeman L.C. , van der Meij B.R. , Back W. , van der Kolk J.H. , Wijnberg I.D. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyIn cases of laminitis, an increased muscle force or contracture of the deep digital flexor muscle (DDFM) is suggested, but evidence‐based research is lacking.ObjectivesTo test if the DDFM of laminitic equines shows an increased muscle force detectable by needle‐EMG including Interference Pattern Analysis (IPA).Study designCross‐sectional study.MethodsThree groups consisted of Group 0 (control): 6 Royal Dutch Sport horses, 3 Shetland ponies and one Welsh pony (healthy, sound adults, mean ± s.d. weight 411 ± 217 kg). Group 1: 3 Royal Dutch Sport horses, one Friesian, one Haflinger, one Icelandic horse, 2 Welsh ponies, one miniature Appaloosa and 6 Shetland ponies (adults, mean ± s.d. weight 310 ± 172 kg) suffering from acute or chronic laminitis. EMG measurements including firing frequency (F) and IPA parameters Turns/Second (T), Amplitude/Turn (M) and Ratio M/T (R) were performed. ANOVA was used to analyse data. P values of P<0.05 were considered significant.ResultsMean ± s.d. F of Group 0 and Group 1 was 53 ± 11 and 72 ± 21 Hz, mean ± s.d. T was 112 ± 57 and 106 ± 42, mean ± s.d. M was 284 ± 51 and 254 ± 38 μV and mean ± s.d. R was 0.39 ± 0.17 and 0.42 ± 0.16%, respectively. The firing frequency of Group 1 was significantly higher compared to Group 0 (P = 0.02), whereas other differences were not significant.ConclusionsIn human medicine, an increased firing frequency is a characteristic of increased muscle force [1,2]. Thus, the increased firing frequency of the DDFM in case of laminitis suggests an elevated muscle force. As all parameters show a high variance, a repeated study including a larger test group is advised.Ethical animal research: Data collection from controls was approved by the Animal Welfare Committee of Utrecht University, approval number 2008.III.07.061 and 2013.III.01.012. Clinical cases were privately owned and written owner consent was obtained. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
Plant Thorn Synovitis Caused by Prunus Spinosa (Blackthorn) Penetration in 35 Horses
Authors: Ashton N.M. , Doles J. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyBlackthorn (Prunus spinosus) is recognised as causing infections and tissue reactions.ObjectivesTo describe the presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of blackthorn plant thorn synovitis in the horse.Study designCase series.MethodsAll cases in this prospective study presented with acute onset synovitis within 24 h of thorn penetration, had a standardised clinical assessment, surgical treatment and aftercare. Surgical treatment was performed within 24 h of presentation under general anaesthesia, using a 2‐stage procedure: Stage 1: perisynovial technique. Ultrasound guided placement of a 20 gauge 35 mm needle marker that is used as a guide for electrosurgical dissection onto perisynovial thorn fragments. Stage 2: endoscopic technique. Using standard and novel portals to locate and remove thorn fragments and debris from synovial structures.ResultsThirty‐five cases met the study inclusion criteria over a 24 month period. Mean lameness score on presentation was 4/5 (range 1–5). The most commonly affected structures were fetlock joints (11/35) and tendon sheaths (10/35). Mean synovial fluid total protein was 50.5 g/l (range 18–116), and TNCC was 158 x 109 (range 21–412) on presentation and 12 x 109 (range 1–46) at 48 h post operatively. All synovial fluid cultures were negative. All horses were sound (grade 0) at 5 days post operatively and all returned to full work.ConclusionsThere are a limited number of case series of blackthorn injury in humans; however, the consensus is that surgical treatment is required for a successful outcome. The 2‐stage surgical procedure described, achieved accurate identification and removal of thorn material in all cases. In contrast to previous studies on synovial sepsis, these cases had a positive outcome despite high pre‐ and post operative synovial fluid total protein and TNCC. These findings suggest that thorn synovitis cases have a different aetiology from synovitis originating from sepsis or contamination.Ethical animal research: The study was reviewed and approved by the Ethics Committee, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham. Owners gave informed consent for their horses' inclusion in the study. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
Outcome and Owner Perception of Conservative and Surgical Management of Fracture of the Ulna in 20 Horses
Authors: Ladefoged S. , Wallin J. , Toth T. , Andersen P.H. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyWhile open reduction and internal fixation is the treatment of choice for most ulnar fractures conservative treatment is sometimes chosen due to financial constraints. Additional motives for the choice of treatment may be present, and the clients perception is therefore of interest.ObjectivesTo compare survival and outcome between horses treated for an ulnar fracture, either surgically or conservatively and to assess clients perception of treatment.Study designRetrospective study.MethodsMedical records and radiographs of horses treated between January 2002 and December 2012, with a diagnosis of ulnar fracture were reviewed. Information regarding short‐ (within 1 year) and long‐term (>1 year) outcome and owner satisfaction with treatment was obtained via telephone questionnaires. Differences between groups were investigated using a chi‐square or Fisher's exact test.ResultsFracture types included 11 type 4, 7 type 5, one type 2, and one type 1b fracture. Eleven horses were treated surgically (Group 1). Nine horses were managed conservatively (Group 2). Group 1: 7/11 (64%) survived >1 year, 5/11 (45%) returned to previous athletic level. In Group 2: 6/9 (67%) survived >1 year, 4/9 (43%) returned to previous athletic level. No significant difference in outcome could be detected. There was no difference in the total treatment cost for horses that stayed at the hospital (P = 0.22). Owners in Group 1 expressed more satisfaction with the treatment than owners in Group 2. Several of the latter expressed welfare concerns regarding the prolonged stall confinement in harness involved with this treatment.ConclusionsVeterinarians recommending therapy for cases of ulnar fractures should be aware that many can be treated surgically with a good outcome. Prolonged hospitalisation and stall confinement of horses treated conservatively was a major welfare concern of the owners interviewed and had the same total cost as surgical treatment.Ethical animal research: Ethical review not currently required by this conference: retrospective clinical study. Explicit owner informed consent for inclusion of animals in this study was not stated. Source of funding: None. Competing interests: None declared.
A Preliminary Study of the Effect of Manual Chiropractic Treatment on the Splenius Muscle in Horses When Measured by Surface Electromyography
Authors: Langstone J. , Ellis J. , Cunliffe C. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyA quantifiable measure of muscle activity related to the cervical spine may provide further understanding and evidence based support for chiropractic techniques. Surface electromyography (sEMG) is a noninvasive method of measuring muscle activity of the splenius muscle when the horse is at rest.ObjectivesTo determine if there is a relationship between objective measurable muscle parameters and misalignments and muscle tension in the equine cervical spine.Study designControlled paired randomised study.MethodsPrivately owned horses (n = 14), of mixed sex, age and mean height 157.8 cm were selected and assigned a group by matching work, management regime, age, sex and breed. The treatment group (n = 7) underwent manual chiropractic treatment following palpation. The control group underwent palpation only. A Delsys 4 sensor system was used for data collection. Probes were positioned on the muscle halfway between C1/C2 joint and the crest on the left and right sides, between the tendon insertion and the motor point to maximise signals. sEMG readings were taken at immediately before (0) and after palpation (PP) and 30 min later (30). Data were tested for normality and variance by one‐way ANOVA and paired t test.ResultsPost treatment, there was a significant decrease (P<0.01) in sEMG activity for treatment group at 0 to 30 and PP to 30. There was a significant decrease (P<0.05) in sEMG for right side for treatment group at 0 to 30 and PP to 30. There were no such significant effects for the control group. The majority (83%) of horses had atlas rotation and tilt to the right.ConclusionsThis preliminary study supports use of sEMG as a means of assessing muscle activity of equines and suggests a statistically significant reduction in splenius muscle activity is observed following manual chiropractic treatment although the benefit to the horse is unknown.Ethical animal research: The study protocol was reviewed by the College Research Ethics Committee before commencement of the study. Owners gave informed consent for their horses' inclusion in the study. Source of funding: McTimoney College of Chiropractic assisted with the hiring of the equipment. Competing interests: None declared.
A Comparison of A 4% Modified Fluid Gelatin and A 6% Hydroxyethyl Starch on Haemodilution, Colloid Osmotic Pressure, Haemostasis and Renal Parameters in Healthy Ponies
Authors: Gratwick Z. , Viljoen A. , Page P.C. , Goddard A. , Fosgate G.T. , Lyle C.H. 
Published: September 2015

Reasons for performing studyAdverse effects on renal health and haemostasis have been documented in human patients administered hydroxyethyl starches (HES). Gelatins could provide useful substitutes for HES should similar adverse effects be identified in horses.ObjectivesTo compare the effects of a 4% modified fluid gelatin (MFG) with a 130/0.4 6% tetrastarch (TES) on haemodilution, colloid osmotic pressure (COP), haemostasis and renal parameters in healthy ponies.Study designRandomised crossover.MethodsThree treatments (A = 10 ml/kg bwt TES, B = 10 ml/kg bwt MFG and C = 20 ml/kg bwt MFG) were administered to 6 healthy ponies with a one‐week washout period. Packed cell volume (PCV), total serum protein (TSP), COP, platelet count, fibrinogen, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and thromboelastography (TEG) were measured at baseline and at multiple time points up to 24 h post infusion. Serum creatinine, urine specific gravity (USG), urine protein:creatinine (UPC), urine GGT:creatinine (UGC) and urine sediment examination (USE) were performed before and 24 h after each treatment, and one week after the final treatment.ResultsAll treatments caused significant haemodilution and increases in COP with treatment C having a significantly greater effect on PCV than other treatments. The platelet count decreased with all treatments and was significantly lower for treatment C compared with treatment B. No significant differences were observed in any TEG parameter within or between treatments. No significant differences in PT, aPTT or fibrinogen were observed between treatments. Serum creatinine, UGC and UPC did not change significantly pre‐ and post study. USG and USE remained within normal limits.Conclusions4% MFG could be considered as an alternative to 130/0.4 6% TES for volume expansion and oncotic support. Neither MFG nor TES were associated with clinically significant adverse effects on haemostasis or renal parameters.Ethical animal research: This research was approved by the University of Pretoria's Animal Ethics Committee. The animals used in the study were part of a research herd belonging to The University of Pretoria. Sources of funding: The Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, The Abe Bailey Trust Fund, The South African Veterinary Foundation and The South African Equine Veterinary Association. Competing interests: None declared.