bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Quantification and age‐related distribution of articular cartilage degeneration in the equine fetlock joint
Authors: Brommer H. , Van Weeren P. R. , Brama P. A. J. , Barneveld A. 
Published: April 2007

Summary Reasons for performing study: The equine fetlock joint has the largest number of traumatic and degenerative lesions of all joints of the appendicular skeleton. Objective: To gain insight into the distribution of cartilage degeneration across the articularsurface in relation to age in order better to understand the dynamic nature and progression of osteoarthritis (OA). Hypothesis: That there would be a specific age‐related distribution pattern of cartilage degeneration in the equine metacarpophalangeal joint. Methods: The proximal articular cartilage surfaces of the first phalanges (P1) of 73 slaughter horses (age range 0.4–23 years) with different stages of osteoarthritis were scored semiquantitatively on a 0 to 5 scale and also assessed quantitatively using the cartilage degeneration index (CDIP1), which ranges from 0 to 100%. Further more, CDI values were determined for special areas of interest; medial dorsal surface (CDImds), late ral dor sal surface (CDIlds), medial central fovea (CDImcf) and lateral central fovea (CDIlcf). Correlations were calculated for CDIP1 values and CDI values at the specific areas of interest with macroscopic scores and with age. Results: There was a high correlation between the semiquantitative macroscopic score and the quantitative CDIP1 values (r = 0.92; P<0.001). A macroscopic score of 0 (i.e. no obvious cartilage degeneration) corresponded with a CDIP1 mean ± s.e. value of 2.5 ± 2.8% and a macroscopic score of 5 (i.e. severe cartilage degeneration in localised areas) with a mean ± s.e. value of 38.1 ± 7.9%. There was a moderate but highly significant correlation between the CDIP1 value and the age of the horses (r = 0.41; P<0.001). Highest CDI values were calculated for the medial dorsal surface (from 10.6 ± 2.8% at macroscopic Grade 0 to 63.1 ± 8.4% at Grade 5). At the lateral dorsal surface, these values were 5.9 ± 1.4% and 47.2 ± 10.4%, respectively. The CDImcf and CDIlcf were significantly lower (P<0.05) than the CDImds and CDIlds at all grades. The CDImcf ranged from 1.0 ± 2.9% at Grade 0 to 43.7 ± 9.1% at Grade 5; laterally, these values were 1.5 ± 2.6% and 15.2 ± 6.2%, respectively. Conclusions: CDI grading increased from lateral to medial and from central to dorsal. This specific distribution pattern confirms the heterogeneous nature of the OA process and strongly supports an important role for biomechanical loading, superimposed on age‐related changes, in the spread of the disorder over the joint. Potential relevance: Knowledge of the development of OA across the articularsurface is essential forunderstanding the dynamic nature and progression of the disease and can form a basis for improvements in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to degenerative joint disease.
Accuracy of ultrasound‐guided intra‐articular injection of cervical facet joints in horses: a cadaveric study
Authors: Nielsen J. V. , Berg L. C. , Thoefner M. B. , Thomsen P. D. 
Published: April 2007

Summary Reasons for performing study: Intra‐articular facet joint injection is an established diagnostic procedure in human medicine but there are no reports on its reliability in equine practice. Objectives: To investigate the accuracy of ultrasound‐guided intra‐articular injections of the cervical facet joints and to estimate factors influencing the accuracy. Methods: Sixty injections with blue dye were performed on the facet joints between 2nd and 7th cervical vertebra (C2–C7) on horses subjected to euthanasia for nonorthopaedic reasons. The facet joints were subsequently dissected to verify accuracy of deposition. Results: Seventy‐two percent of the injections were found to be int ra‐articul ar, 17% were intracapsular and a total of 98% were within 1 mm of the joint capsule. There was a marked effect of gained experience (P<0.01), but not of other factors tested. Conclusions and potential relevance: The results of the present study do not translate directly to injections performed in live horses, but they indicate that the method can be applied as a diagnostic as well as therapeutic procedure in C2 to C7 and that is advisable to practise injections on cadaver specimens before applying the technique.
Comparison of efficacy and tolerability of isoflupredone and dexamethasone in the treatment of horses affected with recurrent airway obstruction (‘heaves’)
Authors: PICANDET V. , LÉGUILLETTE R. , LAVOIE J. ‐P. 
Published: April 2007

SummaryReasons for performing study: Corticosteroids are currently the most effective drugs for the control of ‘heaves’ in horses. However, there is limited information concerning the comparative efficacy and tolerability of the various corticosteroids when used for treatment.Objectives: To compare the therapeutic and side effects of isoflupredone acetate to those of dexamethasone.Methods: A parallel design to compare the effects of 2 corticosteroids by evaluating lung function, serum cortisol and electrolyte concentrations, response to ACTH stimulation and haematology sequentially during a 14 day control period (no treatment), followed by 14 day treatment with either isoflupredone acetate (0.03 mg/kg i.m. s.i.d., n = 6) or dexamethasone (0.04 mg/kg i.v. s.i.d., n = 6) and 7 days of wash‐out.Results: Both drugs were well tolerated clinically and resulted in a significant improvement in lung function that started on Day 3 and lasted for the treatment and wash‐out periods. Blood cortisol levels were significantly decreased during the treatment period in both groups of horses, but a normal response to ACTH stimulation was preserved. Serum electrolytes concentration of horses receiving dexamethasone was not affected by the treatment, but horses treated with isoflupredone demonstrated a significant decrease in serum potassium level. Both treatments induced stress changes in haematology.Conclusions and potential relevance: Isoflupredone is as effective as dexamethasone in the treatment of ‘heaves’‐affected horses but associated with hypokalaemia. Even if clinical signs of hypokalaemia were not observed, this is a side effect that deserves further investigation.
Tiludronate as a new therapeutic agent in the treatment of navicular disease: a double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: DENOIX J. ‐M. , THIBAUD D. , RICCIO B. 
Published: April 2007

Summary Reasons for performing study: Bisphosphonates, such as tiludronate, are used to normalise bone metabolism via inhibition of bone resorption. Areas of increased bone resorption and formation are typical lesions in a diseased navicular bone. Objectives: To determine if bone remodelling changes occurring in navicular disease may be corrected with therapies regulating bone metabolism. Methods: We designed a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial to compare 2 doses of tiludronate, 0.5 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg bwt administered via daily i.v. injections over 10 days for the treatment of navicular disease. Seventy‐three horses, split into 2 subpopulations of recent and chronic cases, were enrolled to be followed‐up over 6 months. Of these, 33 recent and 17 chronic cases meeting the selection criteria were maintained in the final efficacy analyses. Clinical examinations were videorecorded and reviewed blindly by an independent expert. Results: Horses treated with the higher dose showed optimal improvement of lameness and return to normal level of activity 2–6 months post treatment. The more recent the onset of clinical signs at the time of treatment, the greaterthe efficacy. The treatment did not modify the response to extension and flexion tests. The lower dose failed to significantly improve the condition. Conclusions: Tiludronate efficacy is demonstrated in the treatment of navicular disease at the dose of 1 mg/kg bwt. Potential relevance: Our results support the clinical relevance of bone remodelling changes in the outcome of navicular disease.
Correlation of racing performance with radiographic changes in the proximal sesamoid bones of 487 Thoroughbred yearlings
Authors: SPIKE‐PIERCE D. L. , BRAMLAGE L. R. 
Published: April 2007

SummaryReasons for performing study: Proximal sesamoiditis has been a common and confusing radiographic diagnosis in Thoroughbred yearling surveys. This study categorised the radiographic appearance of yearling proximal sesamoid bones and determined their effect on the number of races started and earning potential for racing at ages 2 and 3 years.Hypothesis: Yearlings with moderate to severe proximal sesamoiditis have decreased performance at age 2 and 3 years.Methods: Survey radiographs of 487 Thoroughbred yearlings were reviewed. Proximal sesamoid bones were examined and findings placed into 7 categories, 5 of which measured size, shape, and number of vascular canals, and 2 examined the radiographic shape of the sesamoid abaxial surface. Records of horses age 2 and 3 years were reviewed to obtain the number of races completed and money won in those races.Results: Vascular canals with parallel sides <2 mm in width in any number were normal. Yearlings with 1 or 2 abnormally conformed vascular canals (nonparallel sides and >2 mm in width) had a decrease in number of race starts at age 2 years when compared to normal horses. This same change in the fore‐ or hindlimbs was associated with decreases in starts and earnings at age 2 years. If uniformly present in both fore‐ and hindlimbs there was no difference from normal horses. Yearlings with >2 irregular vascular canals had a decrease in number of race starts and earnings at age 2 and 3 years. Changes in proximal sesamoid bone contour did not affect performance.Conclusions: Horses with enlarged vascular canals, within their sesamoids as yearlings, start fewer races and earn less prize money than horses with normal vascular canals.Potential relevance: One or two enlarged canals affected horses as 2‐year‐olds. Three or more enlarged vascular canals affected horses at ages 2 and 3 years, which should be taken into account when examining radiographs for potential purchase of young horses.
Retrospective evaluation of equine prepurchase examinations performed 1991–2000
Authors: van HOOGMOED L. M. , SNYDER J. R. , THOMAS H. L. , HARMON F.A. 
Published: April 2007

SummaryReasons for performing study: Prepurchase examinations of horses are used increasingly as a means of evaluating future soundness. Data is lacking in the literature of the radiographic findings and results of the lameness examination of comprehensive prepurchase examinations.Objective: To summarise the clinical and radiographic findings of prepurchase examinations and determine if radiographic findings correlated with the lameness examination and sale outcome.Methods: Records of 510 cases were reviewed, radiographs evaluated and grades assigned the navicular bone, distal phalanx, and tarsus. Follow‐up information on the horse status was obtained by telephone interviews for 173 horses.Results: Thoroughbred geldings represented the most common breed and sex, mean age 8 years, mean asking price $12,439.40, and 52.8% were lame. Radiography was the most common diagnostic procedure performed (61.6%), with views of the front feet requested most often (86.6%) followed by the tarsi (68.1%).Grade 1was most common for the navicular bone whileGrade 2predominated for the distal phalanx. The number of sound horses decreased as grades became more severe. For the tarsi,Grades 0and1were most common for the proximal intertarsal and distal intertarsal/metatarsal joints, respectively. Horses with significant tarsal changes were still able to compete at their expected level. With respect to the radiographic examination, the mean ± s.d. grade of the horses which were not lame at follow‐up was 1.2 ± 0.9 for the navicular bone and 1.5 ± 0.8 for the third phalanx. The mean ± s.d. grade of sound horses for the distal intertarsal joint was 0.7 ± 0.6 and 1.14 ± 0.8 for the tarsometatarsal joint. Horses for which owner follow‐up was available and which had aGrade 3score were also evaluated. Forthe navicularbone, 17/31 with aGrade 3remained in active use at follow‐up and for the distal phalanx 21/27 were in active use. For the distal intertarsal and tarsometatarsal joints, 20/21 with aGrade 3were still in active use.Conclusions: Prepurchase examinations can have a significant effect on the outcome of the sale. For the navicular bone and distal phalanx, higher grades were associated with lameness. In contrast, higher grades in the tarsus were less likely to be associated with lameness. Warmbloods tended to have more extensive changes in the navicular bone and distal phalanx relative to Thoroughbreds but were not as lame.Potential relevance: Radiographic changes detected in the navicular bone, distal phalanx and tarsus should be interpreted with consideration to the clinical examination.
Responses of horses in behavioural tests correlate with temperament assessed by riders
Authors: VISSER E. K. , REENEN C. G. Van , RUNDGREN M. , ZETTERQVIST M. , MORGAN K. , BLOKHUIS H. J. 
Published: April 2007

Summary Reasons for performing study: Behavioural tests as well as observers' ratings have been used to study horses' temperament. However, the relationship between the ratings and the responses in behavioural tests has not yet been studied in detail. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to examine this relationship between ratings and responses. Methods: Eighteen mature Swedish Warmblood horses were subjected to 2 behavioural tests, one relating to novelty (novel object test) and one to handling (handling test). Subsequently, 16 of these horses were ridden by 16 equally experienced students, having no former experience with the horses. Immediately after each ride, the students scored the horse for10 temperamental traits using a line rating method. Results: It was shown that for each temperamental trait all 16 riders agreed on the ranking of the horses (0.212<W<0.505, P<0.001). Conclusions: Correlations between behavioural and heart rate variables in the behavioural tests revealed that horses with a high level of locomotion or much restlessness behaviour exhibited high mean heart rate and low heart rate variability. In particular, heart rate variables in the behavioural tests were found to correlate with riders' rating scores. Furthermore, the underlying components of the handling test, retrieved with a principal component analysis (PCA) correlated with riders' rating scores while the underlying components of the novel object test did not. Potential clinical relevance: It is concluded that it is possible for a large panel of assessors to agree upon a horse's temperament and that objective measures from behavioural tests correlate significantly with temperamental traits assessed by a panel of assessors.
Effects of imprint training procedure at birth on the reactions of foals at age six months
Authors: WILLIAMS J. L. , FRIEND T. H. , COLLINS M. N. , TOSCANO M. J. , SISTO‐BURT A. , NEVILL C. H. 
Published: April 2007

Summary Reasons for performing study: While imprint training procedures have been promoted in popular magazines, they have received limited scientific investigation. Objectives: To determine the effects of a neonatal imprint training procedure on 6‐month‐old foals and to determine if any one session had a greater effect than others. Methods: Foals (n = 131) were divided into the following treatments: no imprint training, imprint training at birth, 12, 24 and 48 h after birth orimprint training only at birth, 12, 24, 48, or 72 h after birth. Foals then received minimal human handling until they were tested at 6 months. Results: During training, time to complete exposure to the stimulus was significant for only 2 of 6 stimuli. Percentage change in baseline heart rate was significant for only 2 of 10 stimuli. These 4 effects were randomly spread across treatments. Conclusions: Neither the number of imprint training sessions (0, 1, or 4) nor the timing of imprint training sessions (none, birth, 12, 24, 48, or 72 h after birth) influenced the foal's behaviour at 6 months of age. Potential clinical relevance: In this study, imprint training did not result in better behaved, less reactive foals.
Brain abscesses as a metastatic manifestation of strangles: symptomatology and the use of magnetic resonance imaging as a diagnostic aid
Authors: SPOORMAKERS T. J. P. , ENSINK J. M. , GOEHRING L. S. , KOEMAN J. P. , BRAAKE F. TER , VLUGT‐MEIJER R. H. van der , BELT A. J. M. van der 
Published: April 2007

Summary Reasons for performing study: The occurrence of unexpectedly high numbers of horses with neurological signs during two outbreaks of strangles required prompt in‐depth researching of these cases, including the exploration of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)as a possible diagnostic technique. Objectives: To describe the case series and assess the usefulness of MRI as an imaging modality for cases suspected of space‐occupying lesions in the cerebral cavity. Methods: Four cases suspected of suffering from cerebral damage due to Streptococcus equi subsp. equi infection were examined clinically, pathologically, bacteriologically, by clinical chemistry (3 cases) and MRI (2 cases). In one case, MRI findings were compared to images acquired using computer tomography (CT). Results: In all cases, cerebral abscesses positive for Streptococcus equi subsp. equi were found, which explained the clinical signs. Although the lesions could be visualised with CT, MRI images were superiorin representing the exact anatomic reality of the soft tissue lesions. Conclusions: The diagnosis of bastard strangles characterised by metastatic brain abscesses was confirmed. MRI appeared to be an excellent tool for the imaging of cerebral lesions in the horse. Potential clinical relevance: The high incidence of neurological complications could not be explained but possibly indicated a change in virulence of certain strains of Streptococcus equi subsp. equi. MRI images were very detailed, permitting visualisation of much smaller lesions than demonstrated in this study and this could allow prompt clinical intervention in less advanced cases with a better prognosis. Further, MRI could assist in the surgical treatment of brain abscesses, as has been described earlier for CT.
A retrospective case‐control study of horse falls in the sport of horse trials and three‐day eventing
Authors: SINGER E. R. , SAXBY F. , FRENCH N. P. 
Published: April 2007

Summary Reasons for performing study: Serious injuries to horses and riders in horse trials (HT) and three‐day events (3DE) are usually associated with falls of horses, which invariably involve falls of the riders. Many potential causes for these falls have been discussed. Objectives: The aim of this case‐control study was to investigate the risk factors for horse falls on the cross‐country phase of horse trials and three‐day events. Methods: Using retrospective data, significant risk factors identified with unvariable analysis (P value <0.2) were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model. Significant risk factors (P value <0.05) were included in the final model. Results: It was revealed that a number of course, obstacle and rider variables were significantly and independently associated with the risk of railing. Falling was associated with obstacles sited downhill (Odds ratio [OR] 8.41) and with obstacles with ditches in front (OR = 5.77). Conclusions: The relationship between course variables and the risk of falling was characterised and showed a significantly increased risk with increasing numbers of jumps on the course and for jumping efforts later in the course. In contrast, after allowing for the total number of obstacles on the course, an increase in the total number of jumping efforts appeared to have a protective effect. A later cross‐country start time was associated with a decreased risk of a horse fall. Amateur event riders were approximately 20 times more likely to fall than professional riders. Potential clinical relevance: This study has identified a number of risk factors associated with horse falls and highlights areas that can be altered to improve safety in cross‐country competitions.
Effect of foot balance on the intra‐articular pressure in the distal interphalangeal jointin vitro
Authors: VIITANEN M. J. , WILSON A. M. , McGUIGAN H. P. , ROGERS K. D. , MAY S. A. 
Published: April 2007

SummaryReasons for performing study: Increased joint pressure has been implicated in the progression of osteoarthritis.Hypothesis: That intra‐articular pressure in the distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) is significantly higher in legs loaded with heel up (HU), low heel (TU), lateral side up (LU) and medial side up (MU) imbalance compared to the balanced position.Methods: Twelve elbow down limbs were compressed in a hydraulic loading jig and DIP pressure measured.Results: Elevating the heels by 5° significantly increased DIP pressure. After 5 ml of contrast was injected into the joint, heel elevation caused a greaterincrease in DIP pressure and heel lowering decreased DIP pressure. Silicone rubber castings were taken of 20 DIP whilst under load. The articular contact area was localised on the dorsal aspect in the HU position, palmar aspect in the TU position and towards the elevated side with lateromedial imbalance.Conclusions: Altered foot orientation, which could result from trimming and shoeing, therefore influences intra‐articular pressure in the DIP and the articular contact area.Potential clinical relevance: The results support the view that a balanced foot is the ideal and that the elevated heels may be detrimental to long term viability of the DIP joint.
Risk factors associated with behavioural disorders of crib‐biting, weaving and box‐walking in Swiss horses
Authors: BACHMANN I. , AUDIGÉ L. , STAUFFACHER M. 
Published: April 2007

Summary Reasons for performing study: Studies on the prevalence of behavioural disorders in horses and on associated risk factors have revealed inconsistent results. There are many studies on the neuropharmacological, surgical ormechanical therapy of stereotypies, but little is known about their causation. Objectives: To explore risk factors associated with the occurrence of behavioural disorders in horses. Methods: A sample of horse owners, selected randomly and representative for Switzerland, was contacted in a postal survey. Answers were provided for 622 stables (response rate 35.2%). Individual data of 2341 horses were examined with path analysis (multivariable linear and logistic regression), and adjustment made for possible confounding effects due to age and breed. Results: Out of 60 possible risk factors, 11 were associated with the outcome at the univariable level (null‐hypothesis path model) and 3 factors remained after the backward logistic regression procedure. Mature Warmbloods and Thoroughbreds, assessed by the owners to be reactive, fed 4 times a day and without daily pasture, had increased odds of displaying crib‐biting, weaving and box‐walking. Furthermore, indirect associations of 5 factors with the outcome were identified. Conclusions: The final logistic regression model of risk factors leads to the hypotheses that causal prevention of stereotypic behaviours should be based upon housing and management conditions which allow tactile contact with other horses (e.g. mutual grooming), daily free movement (paddock or pasture), as well as the provision of high amounts of roughage but of little or no concentrates. Potential clinical relevance: It is one of the aims of population medicine to prevent the development of behavioural disorders. Further research is needed to test the concluding hypotheses in experimental studies or to verify them in the context of similar observational studies.