The impact of skin preparation method on electrocardiogram quality in horses

Objective

Several skin preparation techniques are used in electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring of horses. The objective of this study was to determine which methods produce the greatest signal quality using textile electrodes and standard silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) electrodes.

Animals and samples

Electrocardiogram data were collected using textile and Ag/AgCl electrodes simultaneously for 4 skin preparation techniques in 6 horses.

Procedure

The effects of skin preparation (cleansing with isopropyl alcohol, with or without shaving the hair) and the effects of the application of a conductive gel were assessed using metrics of signal quality.

Results

Shaving and cleansing with alcohol had no effect on signal quality for either electrode type. The Ag/AgCl electrodes contain a solid gel, and the application of additional gel did not affect signal quality. Data quality was significantly improved when gel was applied to textile electrodes. Furthermore, there was no difference in signal quality between electrode types when gel was used.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

This study suggests that skin preparation by cleansing and/or shaving does not have a significant effect on equine ECG signal quality. When gel is used, textile electrodes are a practical alternative for Ag/AgCl electrodes, as they produce ECG recordings of the same quality.

Effects of dietary camelina, flaxseed, and canola oil supplementation on plasma fatty acid concentrations and health parameters in horses

Camelina (Camelina sativa) is a hardy, low-input oilseed crop that provides a rich source of the n-3 fatty acid, α-linolenic acid (ALA). The primary purpose of the present study was to assess the effects of dietary camelina oil (CAM) consumption on various health parameters, as compared to horses fed canola oil (OLA) or flax oil (FLX). Secondly, to determine how dietary CAM, FLX, and OLA alter circulating plasma total lipids across time. Thirty horses, from three separate herds, were used for this study [14.9 years ± 5.3 years; 544 ± 66 kg calculated BW (mean ± SD)]. After a 4-week gradual acclimation period using sunflower oil mixed with soaked hay cubes, horses were balanced by location, age, sex, weight, and breed and randomly allocated to one of three treatment oils (CAM, OLA, or FLX) at an inclusion of 370 mg of oil/kg BW/day. Horses had ad libitum access to hay and/or pasture for the duration of the study. Body condition score (BCS), BW, oil intake, complete blood counts, plasma biochemical profiles, and plasma total lipids were measured on weeks 0, 2, 4, 8, and 16 throughout the 16-week treatment period. BW, BCS, and oil intake were analyzed using an ANOVA using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS Studio. Complete blood counts and biochemical profiles were analyzed using an ANCOVA, and fatty acids were analyzed using an ANOVA in PROC MIXED in SAS Studio. No differences were observed among treatment groups for BW, BCS, oil intake, complete blood counts, and biochemical parameters. Individual fatty acids that differed among treatments and/or across time were largely reflective of the different FA profiles of the oils provided. Most notably, plasma ALA was greater for FLX than OLA, but neither differed from CAM (P = 0.01). Linoleic acid did not differ among treatments or over time (P > 0.05). The n-6:n-3 ratio decreased over time for both CAM and FLX, and ratios were lower for FLX than OLA at week 16, but not different from CAM (P = 0.02). These results suggest that dietary CAM had no adverse effects on health parameters and that daily supplementation of CAM and FLX at 370 mg of oil/kg BW/day induces positive changes (a decrease) in the n-6:n-3 status of the horse. Consequently, CAM may be considered as an alternative oil to FLX in equine diets.

The combination of trailer transport and exercise increases gastrointestinal permeability and markers of systemic inflammation in horses

BACKGROUND

Leaky gut syndrome (LGS) is an idiopathic disorder characterised by alterations in intestinal permeability and low-grade systemic inflammation. Factors contributing to development of LGS are not well-understood but physiological stressors such as exercise and transport may play a role which may be of pathophysiological relevance in horses.

OBJECTIVES

To characterise the combined effect of transport stress and exercise on gastrointestinal permeability, and to determine whether these effects are associated with increased inflammatory biomarkers in plasma.

STUDY DESIGN

Controlled, randomised and cross-over study.

METHODS

Horses (n = 8 per group) were given a gastrointestinal permeability tracer (iohexol; 5.6% solution; 1 ml/kg bwt) via nasogastric entubation prior to being assigned to a stressed (EX; 1 h of trailer transport immediately followed by 30 min moderate intensity exercise; n = 4) or sedentary control (CON; n = 4) group. Plasma samples were obtained prior to iohexol administration (P1), after transport (P2), at exercise cessation (P3), and at 1 (P4), 2 (P5), 4 (P6) and 8 (P7) hours after cessation of exercise and were analysed for iohexol, inflammatory biomarkers (SAA, LPS, IFABP and LBP) and tight junction proteins (zonulin). Faecal samples were collected at times corresponding to before and after stress from both groups and analysed for zonulin. Data were analysed using a 2-way RM ANOVA.

RESULTS

In EX horses, a significant increase in iohexol was observed at P2 (1.5 ± 0.24 μg/ml; p = 0.03), P3 (2.1 ± 0.29 μg/ml; p < 0.001), P4 (2.1 ± 0.17 μg/ml; p < 0.001) compared with P1 (0.7 ± 0.21 μg/ml); iohexol was significantly higher in EX than CON horses at P3 (p < 0.001), P4 (p < 0.001) and P5 (p = 0.003). LPS and SAA were significantly higher in EX than CON at P4 (p < 0.001) and P6 (p = 0.04), respectively.

MAIN LIMITATIONS

Data from our small sample size may not be generalisable to the larger equine population.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined transport and exercise increases gastrointestinal permeability and systemic SAA and LPS. The model described herein may be useful in further studies on the role of alterations in gastrointestinal permeability in equine disease.

The Effect of Dietary Synbiotics in Actively Racing Standardbred Horses Receiving Trimethoprim/Sulfadiazine

Synbiotics are often provided to horses receiving antibiotics to protect against microbiome disturbances, despite a lack of evidence for efficacy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a synbiotic product in horses receiving antibiotics. Sixteen actively racing Standardbred horses were randomly allocated (four-way crossover) to one of four groups: antibiotics (10 days; AB), synbiotics (28 days; PROBIOPlus^TM; PBP), PBP + AB, or Control. The fecal microbiome was investigated using 16S rRNA sequencing, and fecal dry matter (DM; %), pH, and scores (FS; 0-9) were measured. Data were analyzed with two-way ANOVA. Results found microbiota differences in community membership between PBP + AB and all other treatments during and after antibiotic treatment. During antibiotic treatment, AB and PBP + AB were significantly different from Control. After antibiotic treatment, PBP + AB was significantly different from all other treatments. The few differences found in relative abundance of phyla or predominant genera were mostly in fiber degrading bacteria. The Fibrobacter population was significantly higher in AB and PBP + AB horses than Control. Unclassified Ruminococcaceae was significantly higher in Control than AB and PBP. After antibiotic treatment, PBP + AB horses were significantly higher than PBP horses. In conclusion, these data provide support for the ability of PROBIOPlus™ to maintain healthy gastrointestinal microbiome during antibiotic treatment.

Effects of dietary camelina, flaxseed, and canola oil supplementation on inflammatory and oxidative markers, transepidermal water loss, and coat quality in healthy adult dogs

Introduction

Camelina oil contains a greater concentration of omega-3 (n-3) a-linolenic acid (C18:3n-3; ALA) than omega-6 (n-6) linoleic acid (C18:2n-6; LA), in comparison to alternative fat sources commonly used to formulate canine diets. Omega-3 FAs are frequently used to support canine skin and coat health claims and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress; however, there is a lack of research investigating camelina oil supplementation and its effects on these applications in dogs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of camelina oil supplementation on coat quality, skin barrier function, and circulating inflammatory and oxidative marker concentrations.

Methods

Thirty healthy [17 females; 13 males; 7.2 ± 3.1 years old; 27.4 ± 14.0 kg body weight (BW)] privately-owned dogs of various breeds were used. After a 4-week wash-in period consuming sunflower oil (n6:n3 = 1:0) and a commercial kibble, dogs were blocked by age, breed, and size, and randomly assigned to one of three treatment oils: camelina (n6:n3 = 1:1.18), canola (n6:n3 = 1:0.59), flaxseed (n6:n3 = 1:4.19) (inclusion level: 8.2 g oil/100 g of total food intake) in a randomized complete block design. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured using a VapoMeter on the pinna, paw pad, and inner leg. Fasted blood samples were collected to measure serum inflammatory and oxidative marker concentrations using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits and spectrophotometric assays. A 5-point-Likert scale was used to assess coat characteristics. All data were collected on weeks 0, 2, 4, 10, and 16 and analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS.

Results

No significant changes occurred in TEWL, or inflammatory and oxidative marker concentrations among treatments, across weeks, or for treatment by week interactions. Softness, shine, softness uniformity, color intensity, and follicle density of the coat increased from baseline in all treatment groups (P &lt; 0.05).

Discussion

Outcomes did not differ (P &gt; 0.05) among treatment groups over 16-weeks, indicating that camelina oil is comparable to existing plant-based canine oil supplements, flaxseed, and canola, at supporting skin and coat health and inflammation in dogs. Future research employing an immune or exercise challenge is warranted, as the dogs in this study were not subjected to either.

Dietary Fermentation Product of Aspergillus Oryzae Prevents Increases in Gastrointestinal Permeability ('Leaky Gut') in Horses Undergoing Combined Transport and Exercise

Equine leaky gut syndrome is characterized by gastrointestinal hyperpermeability and may be associated with adverse health effects in horses. The purpose was to evaluate the effects of a prebiotic Aspergillus oryzae product (SUPP) on stress-induced gastrointestinal hyperpermeability. Eight horses received a diet containing SUPP (0.02 g/kg BW) or an unsupplemented diet (CO) (n = 4 per group) for 28 days. On Days 0 and 28, horses were intubated with an indigestible marker of gastrointestinal permeability (iohexol). Half the horses from each feeding group underwent 60 min of transport by trailer immediately followed by a moderate-intensity exercise bout of 30 min (EX), and the remaining horses stayed in stalls as controls (SED). Blood was sampled before iohexol, immediately after trailering, and at 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 h post-exercise. At the end of the feeding period, horses were washed out for 28 days before being assigned to the opposite feeding group, and the study was replicated. Blood was analyzed for iohexol (HPLC), lipopolysaccharide (ELISA), and serum amyloid A (latex agglutination assay). Data were analyzed using three-way and two-way ANOVA. On Day 0, the combined challenge of trailer transport and exercise significantly increased plasma iohexol in both feeding groups; this increase was not seen in SED horses. On Day 28, EX increased plasma iohexol only in the CO feeding group; this increase was completely prevented by the provision of SUPP. It is concluded that combined transport and exercise induce gastrointestinal hyperpermeability. Dietary SUPP prevents this and therefore may be a useful prophylactic for pathologies associated with gastrointestinal hyperpermeability in horses.

Cartilage-Sparing Properties of Equine Omega Complete in an Organ Culture Model of Cartilage Inflammation

The purpose of this study was to determine anti-inflammatory and/or chondroprotective effects of Equine Omega Complete (EOC) on cartilage explants stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Explants were aseptically prepared from the intercarpal joints of 17 market-weight pigs and placed in culture at 37°C for a total of 120 hours. For the final 96 hours, explants were conditioned with a simulated digestion extract of EOC (0, 36 or 180 μL/mL), and for the final 48 hours explants were stimulated with LPS (0 or 15µg/mL). Media was removed and replaced every 24 hours. Samples from the final 48 hours were analyzed for biomarkers of cartilage inflammation (prostaglandin E₂ [PGE₂] and nitric oxide [NO]) and cartilage structure (glycosaminoglycan [GAG]). At the end of the culture period cartilage explants were stained for an estimate of cell viability. Stimulation of unconditioned explants with LPS significantly increased media concentrations of PGE₂, GAG and NO compared with that from unstimulated explants. LPS stimulation did not significantly affect cell viability. Both concentrations of EOC prevented significant LPS-stimulated cartilage release of GAG without impairing chondrocyte viability. No other effects of treatment were observed. These data provide evidence for a non-cytotoxic, chondroprotective effect of EOC in cartilage. This in vitro experiment supports the use of EOC in protecting against the detrimental effects of inflammation on cartilage structure.

Validation of an Equine Smart Textile System for Heart Rate Variability: A Preliminary Study

Electrocardiograms (ECGs), and associated heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) measurements, are essential in assessing equine cardiovascular health and fitness. Smart textiles have gained popularity, but limited validation work has been conducted. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare HR and HRV data obtained using a smart textile system (Myant) to the gold-standard telemetric device (Televet). Simultaneous ECGs were obtained using both systems in seven horses at rest and during a submaximal exercise test. Bland-Altman tests were used to assess agreement between the two devices. Strong to perfect correlations without significant differences between the two devices were observed for all metrics assessed. During exercise, mean biases of 0.31 bpm (95% limits of agreement: -1.99 to 2.61) for HR, 1.43 ms (-11.48 to 14.33) for standard deviation of R-R intervals (SDRR), and 0.04 (-2.30 to 2.38) for the HRV triangular index (TI) were observed. A very strong correlation was found between the two devices for HR (r = 0.9993, p < 0.0001) and for HRV parameters (SDRR r = 0.8765, p < 0.0001; TI r = 0.8712, p < 0.0001). This study demonstrates that a smart textile system is reliable for assessment of HR and HRV of horses at rest and during submaximal exercise.

Wheatgrass extract has chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects on porcine cartilage

Lameness is a commonly observed disorder in sows and negatively impacts both animal welfare and the profitability of the pig sector. The purpose of this study was to determine anti-inflammatory and/or chondroprotective effects of wheatgrass (WG) on porcine cartilage explants stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Explants were aseptically prepared from the intercarpal joints of nine market-weight pigs and placed in culture at 37°C for a total of 120 hours. For the final 96 hours, explants were conditioned with an aqueous extract of WG (0, 5 or 15 μg/mL), and for the final 48 hours explants were stimulated with LPS (0 or 10 µg/mL). Media was removed and replaced every 24 hours. Samples from the final 48 hours were analyzed for biomarkers of cartilage inflammation [prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and nitric oxide (NO)] and cartilage structure [glycosaminoglycan (GAG)], and cartilage explants were stained for an estimate of cell viability. Stimulation of explants with LPS significantly increased media concentrations of PGE2, GAG and NO compared with that from unstimulated explants. LPS stimulation did not significantly affect cell viability. Conditioning of explants with WG (5 μg/mL) significantly reduced LPS-stimulated cartilage release of PGE2, NO, and GAG (5 and 15 μg/mL), without impairing chondrocyte viability. These data provide evidence for a non-cytotoxic chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effect of WG extract in cartilage and suggest a role of WG in protection against cartilage breakdown, inflammation, and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

The influence of a probiotic/prebiotic supplement on microbial and metabolic parameters of equine cecal fluid or fecal slurry in vitro

The microbes that reside within the equine hindgut create a complex and dynamic ecosystem. The equine hindgut microbiota is intimately associated with health and, as such, represents an area which can be beneficially modified. Synbiotics, supplements that combine probiotic micro-organisms with prebiotic ingredients, are a potential means of influencing the hindgut microbiota to promote health and prevent disease. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the influence of an equine probiotic/prebiotic supplement on characteristics of the microbiota and metabolite production in vitro. Equine cecal fluid and fecal material were collected from an abattoir in QC, CAN. Five hundred milliliters of cecal fluid was used to inoculate chemostat vessels maintained as batch fermenters (chemostat cecal, N = 11) with either 0 g (control) or 0.44 g of supplement added at 12 h intervals. One hundred milliliters of cecal fluid (anaerobic cecal, N = 15) or 5% fecal slurry (anaerobic fecal, N = 6) were maintained in an anaerobic chamber with either 0 g (control) or 0.356 g of supplement added at the time of vessel establishment. Samples were taken from vessels at vessel establishment (0), 24, or 48 h of incubation. Illumina sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene and bioinformatics were performed for microbiome analysis. Metabolite data was obtained via NMR spectroscopy. All statistical analyses were run in SAS 9.4. There was no effect of treatment at 24 or 48h on alpha or beta diversity indices and limited taxonomic differences were noted. Acetate, propionate, and butyrate were higher in treated compared to untreated vessels in all methods. A consistent effect of supplementation on the metabolic profile with no discernable impact on the microbiota of these in vitro systems indicates inoculum microbe viability and a utilization of the provided fermentable substrate within the systems. Although no changes within the microbiome were apparent, the consistent changes in metabolites indicates a potential prebiotic effect of the added supplement and merits further exploration.

Effects of dietary camelina, flaxseed, and canola oil supplementation on transepidermal water loss, skin and coat health parameters, and plasma prostaglandin E2, glycosaminoglycan, and nitric oxide concentrations in healthy adult horses

Camelina oil is derived from a low-input, high-yield crop and, in comparison to many other dietary fat sources currently used in equine diets, provides a greater amount of α-linolenic acid [ALA; (n-3)], than linoleic acid [LA; (n-6)]. However, no research exists assessing the effects of feeding camelina oil to horses in contrast to other commonly used oils. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of supplementing camelina oil to that of flaxseed and canola oil supplementation, on outcomes related to skin and coat health in horses. Thirty adult horses [23 mares, 7 geldings; 14.9 years ± 5.3 years; 544 ± 66 kg body weight (BW) (mean ± SD)] underwent a 4-week wash-in period consuming hay and sunflower oil. Following the wash-in period, horses were blocked by location, age, and BW, and assigned to one of three treatment oils for 16 weeks (370 mg oil/kg BW): camelina (CAM), canola (OLA), or flaxseed (FLX) oil. Blood samples were collected and plasma prostaglandin E2 (PGE2; ELISA), nitric oxide (NO; Griess Reaction), and glycosaminoglycan (GAG; DMMB) concentrations were measured on weeks 0 (n = 30), 14 (n = 24), and 16 (n = 30). On weeks 0, 2, 4, 8, and 16, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured pre- and post-acetone application using a VapoMeter (n = 26), and a 5-point-Likert scale was used to assess skin and coat characteristics on the side and rump of the horses (n = 30). All data were analyzed with repeated measures ANOVA using PROC GLIMMIX in SAS. Independent of treatment, coat color, and quality increased from baseline. There were no differences in the outcomes assessed between the horses supplemented camelina oil and those supplemented canola or flaxseed oil. These results suggest that independent of treatment, all oil supplements improved coat color and quality in horses. This provides indication that camelina oil is comparable to existing plant-based oil supplements in supporting skin and coat health and inflammation in horses.

A Smart Textile Band Achieves High-Quality Electrocardiograms in Unrestrained Horses

Electrocardiography (ECG) is an essential tool in assessing equine health and fitness. However, standard ECG devices are expensive and rely on the use of adhesive electrodes, which may become detached and are associated with reduced ECG quality over time. Smart textile electrodes composed of stainless-steel fibers have previously been shown to be a suitable alternative in horses at rest and during exercise. The objective of this study was to compare ECG quality using a smart textile girth band knit with silver and carbon yarns to standard adhesive silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) electrodes. Simultaneous three-lead ECGs were recorded using a smart textile band and Ag/AgCl electrodes in 22 healthy, mixed-breed horses that were unrestrained in stalls. ECGs were compared using the following quality metrics: Kurtosis (k) value, Kurtosis signal quality index (kSQI), percentage of motion artifacts (%MA), peak signal amplitude, and heart rate (HR). Two-way ANOVA with Tukey’s multiple comparison tests was conducted to compare each metric. No significant differences were found in any of the assessed metrics between the smart textile band and Ag/AgCl electrodes, with the exception of peak amplitude. Kurtosis and kSQI values were excellent for both methods (textile mean k = 21.8 ± 6.1, median kSQI = 0.98 [0.92−1.0]; Ag/AgCl k = 21.2 ± 7.6, kSQI = 0.99 [0.97−1.0]) with <0.5% (<1 min) of the recording being corrupted by MAs for both. This study demonstrates that smart textiles are a practical and reliable alternative to the standard electrodes typically used in ECG monitoring of horses.

A proof of principle study investigating the effects of supplemental concentrated brewer's yeast on markers of gut permeability, inflammation, and fecal metabolites in healthy non-challenged adult sled dogs

Yeast-derived β-glucans impact immunity, though their effects on gut permeability and inflammation are less understood. Most research has investigated other components of the yeast cell wall, such as the prebiotic mannan- and fructo-oligosaccharides. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of feeding a concentrated yeast product on markers of inflammation (serum amyloid A [SAA] and haptoglobin [Hp]) and oxidative status (malondialdehyde [MDA]), fecal products of fermentation, and gut permeability. Nineteen privately owned domestic Siberian huskies, and one Alaskan husky (9 females: 5 intact, 4 spayed; 11 males: 3 intact, 8 neutered), with an average age of 4.8 ± 2.6 yr and body weight (BW) of 25.6 ± 4.1 kg, were used in this study. Dogs were blocked and randomly allocated to one of two diet groups. Ten dogs received a dry extruded diet. The other 10 received the same diet top dressed with yeast for a daily β-glucan dose of 7 mg/kg BW for 10 wk. Fecal collection, for evaluation of fecal metabolites, and scoring occurred weekly. Gut permeability was assessed using the chromium-labeled ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid (Cr-EDTA) and iohexol markers prior to the initiation of dietary treatment and after 10 wk of treatment. Blood samples were collected premarker administration and 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 h postadministration. Fasting concentrations of SAA, Hp, and MDA were measured on weeks -1, 2, 4, and 8. Incremental area under the curve (I-AUC) was calculated for serum iohexol and Cr-EDTA concentrations. All data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX of SAS with dog as random effect, and week as fixed effect and repeated measure. Dogs receiving treatment tended to have decreased I-AUC of Iohexol (P = 0.10) and Cr-EDTA (P = 0.06) between baseline and cessation of treatment compared to the change over time in I-AUC for control (Ctl) dogs. Treatment dogs had lower Hp concentrations (P ≤ 0.05) than Ctl. There were no differences between treatments for SAA and MDA concentrations (P > 0.05). Fecal arabinose concentrations were greater in treatment (Trt) dogs (P ≤ 0.05) compared to Ctl, though no other fecal metabolites were affected by treatment. There was no difference in the relative frequency of defecations scored at any fecal score between Trt and Ctl dogs, and mean score did not differ between groups (P > 0.10). These data suggest that concentrated brewer's yeast may have the potential to reduce gut permeability without impacting inflammatory status and markers of health in adult dogs.

119 Change in Serum Total Lipid Profiles in Dogs Supplemented with Camelina, Flaxseed, or Canola oil for 16 Weeks

There are few data describing the effects of different oils on fatty acid (FA) metabolism in dogs. Our objectives were to assess the effects of camelina (CAM), flaxseed (FLAX), and canola oil (OLA) on the serum total lipid FA profiles over a 16-week feeding study. Thirty healthy, adult dogs of various breeds [17 females, 13 males; 7.2±3.1 years and 27.4±14.0 kg (mean±SD)] underwent a 4-week dietary wash-in period on a commercial, low-fat kibble top dressed with 8.2g sunflower oil/100g food intake. Dogs were blocked by breed, age, and size, and assigned to receive CAM, FLAX, or OLA for 16-weeks at the same dose as wash-in. Serum total FA were measured using gas chromatography from dogs at baseline and week 16. Data were analyzed with ANOVA using PROC GLIMMIX of SAS. In all treatments, the final percent area of pooled and individual omega-3 (n-3) and omega-6 (n-6) FAs were inversely related, with n-3 being greater at week 16 and n-6 less at week 16 compared with baseline (p&lt; 0.05). Conversely, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid showed accumulation at week 16 and docosahexaenoic acid was less at week 16 than baseline for all treatments (p&lt; 0.05). Stearidonic acid was greater in FLAX than OLA but both were similar to CAM, and α-linolenic differed among all treatments (FLAX &gt;CAM &gt;OLA) (p&lt; 0.05). Eicosadienoic acid was less in FLAX than CAM and OLA (p&lt; 0.05). Omega-9 FA were greater at week 16 for all treatments and individual FAs (p&lt; 0.05). Eicosaenoic and mead acid were greater in CAM than FLAX and OLA, and oleic acid was greater in FLAX than OLA, but similar to CAM (p&lt; 0.05). Differences among dogs fed camelina, flax, and canola oils were due to the inherent FA concentrations of the oil and suggest all oils are suitable for increasing serum n-3 concentrations.

A Comparison of Methods to Maintain the Equine Cecal Microbial Environment In Vitro Utilizing Cecal and Fecal Material

Simple Summary

In vitro systems for the fermentation of equine gastrointestinal (GI) content provide researchers with the ability to evaluate changes which may occur due to external influences but which cannot be accessed in vivo. The objective of this study was to evaluate three fermentation systems to replicate the equine cecal environment with regard to the microbiome and metabolite profile. The microbiome and metabolome of the fecal slurry used as inocula in this study were not representative of the cecal systems and care should be taken if feces are to be used to mimic proximal hindgut regions such as the cecum. However, the microbiome of the cecal inoculum maintained in either a chemostat batch fermenter or anaerobic chamber was fairly comparable. The metabolite concentrations, but not rate of production, were significantly different between the two cecal systems. These results provide a context to determine the most appropriate methods by which to create a fermentation system to reflect the equine cecal environment. They also highlight that caution must be exercised as many factors may influence the microbial and metabolic profiles within these systems; as such, they can best be used to demonstrate trends and gross reactions to environmental stimuli.

Abstract

The equine gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota is intimately related to the horse. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the microbiome and metabolome of cecal inoculum maintained in an anaerobic chamber or chemostat batch fermenter, as well as the fecal slurry maintained in an anaerobic chamber over 48 h. Cecal and fecal content were collected from healthy adult horses immediately upon death. Cecal fluid was used to inoculate chemostat vessels (chemostat cecal, n = 11) and vessels containing cecal fluid (anaerobic cecal, n = 15) or 5% fecal slurry (anaerobic fecal, n = 6) were maintained in an anaerobic chamber. Sampling for microbiome and metabolome analysis was performed at vessel establishment (0 h), and after 24 h and 48 h of fermentation. Illumina sequencing was performed, and metabolites were identified via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Alpha and beta diversity indices, as well as individual metabolite concentrations and metabolite regression equations, were analyzed and compared between groups and over time. No differences were evident between alpha or beta diversity in cecal fluid maintained in either an anaerobic chamber or chemostat. The microbiome of the fecal inoculum maintained anaerobically shifted over 48 h and was not comparable to that of the cecal inoculum. Metabolite concentrations were consistently highest in chemostat vessels and lowest in anaerobic fecal vessels. Interestingly, the rate of metabolite change in anaerobic cecal and chemostat cecal vessels was comparable. In conclusion, maintaining an equine cecal inoculum in either an anaerobic chamber or chemostat vessel for 48 h is comparable in terms of the microbiome. However, the microbiome and metabolome of fecal material is not comparable with a cecal inoculum. Future research is required to better understand the factors that influence the level of microbial activity in vitro, particularly when microbiome data identify analogous communities.

Effects of Presbyphagia on Oropharyngeal Swallowing Observed during Modified Barium Swallow Studies

OBJECTIVES

Understanding how aging impacts swallowing can help differentiate typical from atypical behaviors. This study aimed to quantify age-related swallowing alterations observed during a modified barium swallow study.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Adult fluoroscopy suite in a metropolitan hospital at an academic center.

PARTICIPANTS

195 healthy adults distributed across 3 age categories: 21-39; 40-59; 60+ years.

MEASUREMENTS

17 physiologic components of swallowing across three functional domains (oral, pharyngeal, esophageal), including summed composite scores (Oral Total [OT] and Pharyngeal Total [PT]), from the validated and standardized Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile.

RESULTS

Most components (65%) demonstrated no impairment (scores of "0"). The odds of a worse (higher) score increased significantly with age for: Tongue Control during Bolus Hold, Hyolaryngeal Movement, Laryngeal Closure, Pharyngeal Contraction, and Pharyngoesophageal Segment Opening. OT and PT scores for 40-59-year-olds were worse than the youngest group (p=.01 and p <.001, respectively). Adults 60+ years had significantly worse PT scores among all groups (p-values <.01).

CONCLUSION

Oropharyngeal swallowing physiology evolves as healthy adults age and should be considered during clinical decision-making.

Gastrin and Nitric Oxide Production in Cultured Gastric Antral Mucosa Are Altered in Response to a Gastric Digest of a Dietary Supplement

In vitro organ culture can provide insight into isolated mucosal responses to particular environmental stimuli. The objective of the present study was to investigate the impact of a prolonged culturing time as well as the addition of acidic gastric fluid into the in vitro environment of cultured gastric antral tissue to evaluate how altering the commonly used neutral environment impacted tissue. Furthermore, we aimed to investigate the impact of G's Formula, a dietary supplement for horses, on the secretion of gastrin, interleukin1-beta (IL-1β), and nitric oxide (NO). These biomarkers are of interest due to their effects on gastric motility and mucosal activity. Gastric mucosal tissue explants from porcine stomachs were cultured in the presence of a simulated gastric fluid (BL, n = 14), simulated gastric fluid containing the dietary supplement G's Formula (DF, n = 12), or an equal volume of phosphate buffered saline (CO, n = 14). At 48 and 60 h, 10⁻⁵ M carbachol was used to stimulate gastrin secretion. Cell viability was assessed at 72 h using calcein and ethidium-homodimer 1 staining. Media was analyzed for gastrin, IL-1β, and NO at 48, 60, and 72 h. There were no effects of treatment or carbachol stimulation on explant cell viability. Carbachol resulted in a significant increase in gastrin concentration in CO and DF treatments, but not in BL. NO was higher in CO than in BL, and NO increased in the CO and DF treatments but not in BL. In conclusion, the addition of carbachol and gastric digests to culture media did not impact cell viability. The use of an acidic gastric digest (BL) reduced the effect of cholinergic stimulation with carbachol at a concentration of 10⁻⁵ M and reduced NO secretion. The addition of the dietary supplement to the gastric digest (DF) appeared to mediate these effects within this model. Further research is required to evaluate the specific effects of this dietary supplement on direct markers of mucosal activity and the functional relevance of these results in vivo.

Safety of Dietary Camelina Oil Supplementation in Healthy, Adult Dogs

This study aimed to determine whether camelina oil is safe for use in canine diets, using canola oil and flax oil as controls, as they are similar and generally regarded as safe (GRAS) for canine diets. A total of thirty privately-owned adult dogs of various breeds (17 females; 13 males), with an average age of 7.2 ± 3.1 years (mean ± SD) and a body weight (BW) of 27.4 ± 14.0 kg were used. After a 4-week wash-in period using sunflower oil and kibble, the dogs were blocked by breed, age, and size and were randomly allocated to one of three treatment oils (camelina (CAM), flax (FLX), or canola (OLA)) at a level of 8.2 g oil/100 g total dietary intake. Body condition score (BCS), BW, food intake (FI), and hematological and select biochemical parameters were measured at various timepoints over a 16-week feeding period. All of the data were analyzed with ANOVA using the PROC GLIMMIX of SAS. No biologically significant differences were seen between the treatment groups in terms of BW, BCS, FI, and hematological and biochemical results. Statistically significant differences noted among some serum biochemical results were considered small and were due to normal biological variation. These results support the conclusion that camelina oil is safe for use in canine nutrition.

Effects of a nutraceutical supplement on gastrointestinal health in racing standardbreds

BACKGROUND

Feed additives that accelerate gastrointestinal transit time may help support normal gastrointestinal function in horses at risk for impaction colic. Previous research has demonstrated significant stimulatory effect of a hemp-based nutraceutical product (Gs Formula; GF) on contractility of gastric smooth muscle and gastrin production in vitro.

OBJECTIVES

To quantify effects of GF on indicators of GIT transit time and tight junction proteins.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized placebo-controlled cross-over study.

METHODS

Eight Standardbreds were administered 200 plastic beads by nasogastric tube before (baseline; BL) and after receiving a diet containing GF (CON: 0 g/day, LO: 160 g/day or HI: 480 g/day) for 28 days. Total manure collection occurred every 2 hours for 72 hours after bead administration. Outcome measures included GIT transit time, faecal dry matter (DM), water intake, and complete biochemistry and haematology screens.

RESULTS

There was no effect of GF on GIT transit time. Faecal output was significantly lower in LO and HI horses than CON horses after 28 days on the supplement. HI horses have significantly lower rouleaux formation and lower faecal DM on Day 28 compared with BL. GF also produced changes in electrolytes associated with pH balance, which may indicate a role for GF as an alkalinizing compound in exercising horses. Clinical pathology results support the safety of GF up to 480 g/day for 28 days with no adverse effects being observed in haematology or biochemistry results.

MAIN LIMITATIONS

Future studies on GF should focus on evaluating effect of GF on gastrointestinal transit in horses with naturally or experimentally delayed gastrointestinal motility, and its effect on exercise performance and onset of fatigue.

CONCLUSIONS

GF may help support normal gastrointestinal function in horses at risk for impaction colic by reducing faecal DM and rouleaux formation.

Treatment Preferences for Cardiac Procedures of Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease in Acute Coronary Syndrome: Design and Pilot Testing of a Discrete Choice Experiment

Background:

Chronic kidney disease is associated with a high incidence of acute coronary syndrome and related morbidity and mortality. Treatment choices for patients with chronic kidney disease involve trade-offs in the potential benefits and harms of invasive management options.

Objective:

The objective was to quantify preferences of patients with chronic kidney disease toward invasive heart procedures.

Design:

Design and pilot a discrete choice experiment.

Setting:

We piloted the discrete choice experiment in 2 multidisciplinary chronic kidney disease clinics in Calgary, Alberta, using an 8-question survey.

Patients:

Eligible patients included those aged 18 years and older, an estimated glomerular filtration rate < 45 mL/min/1.73 m², not currently receiving dialysis, and able to communicate in English.

Measurements:

Quantification of the average importances of key attributes of invasive heart procedures.

Methods:

We identified attributes most important to patients and physicians concerning invasive versus conservative management for acute coronary syndrome, using semi-structured qualitative interviews. Levels for each attribute were derived from analysis of early invasive versus conservative acute coronary syndrome management clinical trials and cohort studies, where subgroups of patients with chronic kidney disease were reported. We designed the pilot study with patient partners with relevant lived experience and considered statistical efficiency to estimate main effects and interactions, as well as response efficiency. Hierarchical Bayesian estimation was used to quantify average importances of attributes.

Results:

We recruited 43 patients with chronic kidney disease, mean (SD) age 67 (14) years, 67% male, and 35% with a history of cardiovascular disease, of whom 39 completed the survey within 2 weeks of enrollment. The results of the pilot revealed acute kidney injury requiring dialysis and permanent kidney replacement therapy, as well as death within 1 year were the most important attributes. Measures of internal validity for the pilot discrete choice experiment were comparable to those for other published discrete choice experiments.

Limitations:

Discrete choice experiments are complex instruments and often cognitively demanding for patients. This survey included multiple risk attributes which may have been challenging for some patients to understand.

Conclusions:

This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of a discrete choice experiment to quantify preferences of patients with chronic kidney disease toward the benefits and trade-offs related to invasive versus conservative management for acute coronary syndrome. These preliminary findings suggest that patients with chronic kidney disease may be on average similarly risk averse toward kidney replacement therapy and death. This pilot information will be used to inform a larger discrete choice experiment that will refine these estimates of patient preferences and characterize subgroups with distinct treatment preferences, which should provide new knowledge that can facilitate shared decision-making between patients with chronic kidney disease and their care providers in the setting of acute coronary syndrome.

The Time Course of Inflammatory Biomarkers Following a One-Hour Exercise Bout in Canines: A Pilot Study

Simple Summary

The purpose of this study is to generate preliminary data on the inflammatory effects of an hour of hunting in dogs. Four basset hounds were set out to find a scent and freely adopted running or walking over wooded terrain for one hour. Blood samples were obtained before exercise and 1, 2, 4, 6, and 10 h after the end of the exercise for analysis of markers of inflammation (prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin 1β (IL-1β)), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)), and inflammation resolution (resolvin D1 (RvD1)). There was an increase in inflammation one hour after the exercise, shown by a significant increase in PGE₂. Following the peak, PGE₂ steadily declined at the same time as RvD1 increased, with RvD1 peaking at six hours. This pilot study provides evidence that dogs that undergo an hour of hunt exercise experience transient inflammation that peaks one hour after the end of exercise; inflammation resolution peaks six hours after the end of exercise. Future studies should seek to further understand the distinct and combined roles of PGE₂ and RvD1 in dog adaptation to exercise stress.

Abstract

There is little information available to describe the inflammatory consequences of and recovery from moderate-intensity exercise bouts in hunting dogs. The purpose of the current study is to generate pilot data on the appearance and disappearance of biomarkers of inflammation and inflammation resolution following a typical one-hour exercise bout in basset hounds. Four hounds were set out to find a scent and freely adopted running or walking over wooded terrain for approximately one hour. Venous blood samples were obtained before the exercise and at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 10 h following cessation of exercise and were analyzed for biomarkers of inflammation (prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin 1β (IL-1β)) tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)), and inflammation resolution (resolvin D1 (RvD1)). There was an increase in inflammation one hour after the exercise, shown by a significant increase in PGE₂. Following this peak, PGE₂ steadily declined at the same time as RvD1 increased, with RvD1 peaking at six hours. This pilot study provides evidence that dogs that undergo an hour of hunt exercise experience transient inflammation that peaks one hour after the end of exercise; inflammation resolution peaks six hours after the end of exercise. Future studies should seek to further understand the distinct and combined roles of PGE₂ and RvD1 in dog adaptation to exercise stress.

A Botanical-Based Equine Nutraceutical Reduces Gastric Smooth Muscle Contractile Force In Vitro

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a botanical-based equine nutraceutical on contractility of gastric smooth muscle in vitro. Gastric ulcers are prevalent in performance horses and negatively impact horse welfare. Gastric hypermotility has been positively associated with the development of gastric ulceration in nonequine species, and reduction of hypermotility may be protective against their development. Stomachs from 12 pigs processed for food at a provincially inspected abattoir were collected within 1 hour of slaughter. Explants of nonglandular gastric tissue were prepared and suspended in a tissue bath, attached to a force transducer, in the presence or absence of a simulated digest extract of the nutraceutical. Tissue was stimulated to contract using increasing doses of acetylcholine. Peak and mean contractile force over 1 and 2 minutes after exposure to acetylcholine were measured. Exposure of gastric smooth muscle to the nutraceutical significantly reduced contractility of the tissue. These data provide support for the use of this nutraceutical to reduce contractility of nonglandular gastric smooth muscle and may indicate a protective effect of this nutraceutical in horses with mechanically induced gastric ulcers. Future studies are needed to clarify the role of gastric hypermotility on development of equine gastric ulcers and to determine the effect of this nutraceutical on equine gastric contractility and ulcerogenesis in vivo.

A biological extract of turmeric (Curcuma longa) modulates response of cartilage explants to lipopolysaccharide

Background

Turmeric is commonly used as a dietary treatment for inflammation, but few studies have evaluated the direct effect of turmeric on cartilage. The purpose of this study was to characterize cartilage explants’ inflammatory responses to lipopolysaccharide in the presence of a simulated biological extract of turmeric.

Methods

Turmeric was incubated in simulated gastric and intestinal fluid, followed by inclusion of liver microsomes and NADPH. The resulting extract (TUR_sim) was used to condition cartilage explants in the presence or absence of lipopolysaccharide. Explants were cultured for 96 h (h); the first 24 h in basal tissue culture media and the remaining 72 h in basal tissue culture media containing TUR_sim (0, 3, 9 or 15 μg/mL). Lipopolysaccharide (0 or 5 μg/mL) was added for the final 48 H. media samples were collected immediately prior to lipopolysaccharide exposure (0 h) and then at 24 and 48 h after, and analyzed for prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and nitric oxide (NO). Explants were stained with calcein-AM for an estimate of live cells. Data were analyzed using a 2-way repeated measures (GAG, PGE₂, NO) or 1-way ANOVA without repeated measures (viability). Significance accepted at p < 0.05.

Results

TUR_sim significantly reduced PGE_2, NO and GAG, and calcein fluorescence was reduced. Conclusions: These data contribute to the growing body of evidence for the utility of turmeric as an intervention for cartilage inflammation.

Exploring relationships between body condition score, body fat, activity level and inflammatory biomarkers

Obesity is associated with inflammatory disorders in humans, including degenerative joint disease. While obesity is endemic in horses, its relationship to equine degenerative joint disease has not been explored. The current study sought to describe relationships between: body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS), lameness grade (AAEP), total body fat mass (kg; FM) and fat per cent (FP) [multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (mfBIA)], age, gender, activity level (AL), synovial fluid (SF) and plasma (PL) PGE₂ and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) in horses. During this field investigation, the BCS (of nine) of 54 horses at multiple farms in southern Ontario, Canada, was determined. Horses were categorized as thin (BCS=3/9; n = 6), moderate (BCS=4 or 5/9; n = 18), overweight (BCS=6 or 7/9; n = 19) or obese (BCS=8 or 9/9; n = 11). Total fat mass (kg) and body fat% was measured using mfBIA, lameness was assessed (AAEP lameness scale) and synovial fluid was collected via aseptic arthrocentesis from the left intercarpal joint for assessment of inflammatory biomarkers (PGE₂ , GAG). Means were compared with a one-way ANOVA; correlation coefficients were calculated using a Spearman Rank Order Correlation to reveal correlations between variables. BCS was positively correlated with BW, FM, FP, AL and PL-PGE₂ . BW was also significantly positively correlated with PL-PGE₂ . It is concluded that BCS is significantly correlated with PL-PGE₂ , due in part to the combined effect of AL and body condition. Net inflammatory effects of body fat on risk for joint disease require further study.

A time-course evaluation of inflammatory and oxidative markers following high-intensity exercise in horses: a pilot study

Exercise is a physiological stress resulting in reactive oxygen species and inflammatory mediators, the accumulation of which are thought to contribute to degenerative articular diseases. The horse is of particular interest in this regard as equine athletes are frequently exposed to repetitive bouts of high-intensity exercise. The purpose of this study was to provide a detailed description of the response of articular and systemic oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers following high-intensity, exhaustive exercise in horses. A group of horses (Ex) underwent repeated bouts of high-intensity exercise, at a target heart rate of 180 beats/min, until voluntary exhaustion. Baseline plasma and synovial fluid (SF) samples were taken 24 h before exercise and then at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 24 h following exercise cessation. This time course was repeated in a group of nonexercised control horses (Co). Plasma and SF samples were analyzed for prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), nitric oxide (NO), total antioxidant status (TAS), and glycosaminoglycans (GAG). The Ex group had significantly higher plasma NO at 0.5, 1, and 2 h; and higher plasma PGE₂ at 0.5 and 1 h compared with Co. SF PGE₂ and GAG were also higher in Ex horses at 8 h compared with Co. It is concluded that high-intensity exercise in horses results in a rapid increase in systemic oxidative and inflammatory markers from 0.5 to 2 h after exercise, which is followed by local articular inflammation and cartilage turnover at 8 h postexercise. NEW & NOTEWORTHY In horses, the influence of exercise systemically and within the articular space remains unclear and requires further detailed characterization. In this study, we identify that an acute bout of high-intensity exercise in horses induces systemic inflammation and oxidative stress within 30 min of exercise cessation, which lasts for ~2 h. Articular inflammation and cartilage turnover were also be observed within the equine carpal joint 8 h following exercise completion.

Oral rosmarinic acid-enhanced Mentha spicata modulates synovial fluid biomarkers of inflammation in horses challenged with intra-articular LPS

A biological extract of high-rosmarinic acid mint (HRAM) has previously demonstrated inhibitory effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), nitric oxide (NO) and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) release in vitro. This study was undertaken to determine whether HRAM added to feed produces similar effects in horses challenged with intra-articular LPS. Eight horses received HRAM (0 or 28.1 ± 1.3 g/day; n = 4 per group) in their feed for 24 days in a blinded manner. On day 21, all horses received an intra-articular injection of LPS (0.3 ng) into their left or right intercarpal joint. Synovial fluid (SF) samples were taken on postinjection day (PID)-21 (i.e. prior to commencement of supplementation), PID0, PID0.25, PID0.5, PID1 and PID3 and analysed for PGE(2), GAG, NO, protein and total nucleated cells counts. Blood biochemistry and haematology screens were conducted at PID-21, PID0, PID1 and PID3. There was a significant reduction in LPS-induced PGE(2) and GAG in SF in horses supplemented with HRAM compared with controls and a tendency to increase complement recognition protein accumulation in synovial fluid of HRAM horses. Plasma from HRAM horses had reduced total white blood cells, segmented neutrophils (compared with baseline concentrations) and lymphocytes (compared with controls), and increased SF nucleated cell count (compared with baseline concentrations and controls). It is concluded that HRAM offered as part of the feed alter biomarkers of inflammation in SF of LPS-challenged horses. Larger studies that seek to clarify effects of HRAM on synovial fluid cell counts and possible role of HRAM-induced interference with complement signalling are warranted.

The Peacock versus the louse (pediculus humanus corporis): one soldier's contribution to combating trench fever in the First World War

Trench fever became a major worry for the Allied High Command during the First World War because of its debilitating effects on troop performance. The causes of the fever were not previously known, but entomological research identified the body louse (pediculus humanus corporis) as the carrier, and the Royal Army Medical Corps developed effective methods of control through disinfestation. These were markedly influenced by the researches of a young entomologist, Alexander David Peacock, which were conducted under campaign conditions. Peacock subsequently occupied a Chair of Zoology at St. Andrews University for 30 years.

Protection against LPS-induced cartilage inflammation and degradation provided by a biological extract of Mentha spicata

BACKGROUND

A variety of mint [Mentha spicata] has been bred which over-expresses Rosmarinic acid (RA) by approximately 20-fold. RA has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in small rodents; thus it was hypothesized that this plant would demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. The objectives of this study were: a) to develop an in vitro extraction procedure which mimics digestion and hepatic metabolism, b) to compare anti-inflammatory properties of High-Rosmarinic-Acid Mentha spicata (HRAM) with wild-type control M. spicata (CM), and c) to quantify the relative contributions of RA and three of its hepatic metabolites [ferulic acid (FA), caffeic acid (CA), coumaric acid (CO)] to anti-inflammatory activity of HRAM.

METHODS

HRAM and CM were incubated in simulated gastric and intestinal fluid, liver microsomes (from male rat) and NADPH. Concentrations of RA, CA, CO, and FA in simulated digest of HRAM (HRAMsim) and CM (CMsim) were determined (HPLC) and compared with concentrations in aqueous extracts of HRAM and CM. Cartilage explants (porcine) were cultured with LPS (0 or 3 microg/mL) and test article [HRAMsim (0, 8, 40, 80, 240, or 400 microg/mL), or CMsim (0, 1, 5 or 10 mg/mL), or RA (0.640 microg/mL), or CA (0.384 microg/mL), or CO (0.057 microg/mL) or FA (0.038 microg/mL)] for 96 h. Media samples were analyzed for prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), interleukin 1beta (IL-1), glycosaminoglycan (GAG), nitric oxide (NO) and cell viability (differential live-dead cell staining).

RESULTS

RA concentration of HRAMsim and CMsim was 49.3 and 0.4 microg/mL, respectively. CA, FA and CO were identified in HRAMsim but not in aqueous extract of HRAM. HRAMsim (> or = 8 microg/mL) inhibited LPS-induced PGE2 and NO; HRAMsim (> or = 80 microg/mL) inhibited LPS-induced GAG release. RA inhibited LPS-induced GAG release. No anti-inflammatory or chondroprotective effects of RA metabolites on cartilage explants were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Our biological extraction procedure produces a substance which is similar in composition to post-hepatic products. HRAMsim is an effective inhibitor of LPS-induced inflammation in cartilage explants, and effects are primarily independent of RA. Further research is needed to identify bioactive phytochemical(s) in HRAMsim.

Concurrent use of veterinary drugs and herbal medicines in racing standardbreds

Standardbred trainers from 1 racetrack and 7 off-track training facilities were surveyed to determine the most common drugs, and prevalence of concurrent herb administration. Furosemide (on-track) and anti-inflammatory drugs (off-track) were the most common drugs administered. Among horses on-track, 9.8% received herbs compared with 13.8% off-track horses; 67% and 58% of these horses, respectively, received concurrent drugs.

Effects of simulated digests of Biota orientalis and a dietary nutraceutical on interleukin-1- induced inflammatory responses in cartilage explants

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that simulated digests of Biota orientalis (BO) and a dietary nutraceutical (DN; composed of mussel, shark cartilage, abalone, and BO seed lipid extract) inhibit prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), nitric oxide (NO), and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) production in interleukin (IL)-1-stimulated cartilage explants.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Cartilage tissue from 12 pigs.

PROCEDURES

Articular cartilage explants were conditioned with a simulated digest of BO (BOsim) or DN (DNsim) at concentrations of 0, 0.06, or 0.18 mg/mL or indomethacin (INDOsim; 0 or 0.02 mg/mL) for 72 hours. Control explants received digest vehicle only. Explants were or were not stimulated with recombinant human-IL-1beta (10 or 0 ng/mL) during the final 48 hours of culture. Concentrations of PGE2, GAG, and NO in media samples (mPGE2,mGAG, and mNO concentrations, respectively) were analyzed, and explant tissue was stained fluorochromatically to determine chondrocyte viability. Treatment effects during the final 48-hour culture period were analyzed.

RESULTS

IL-1 increased mPGE2, mGAG, and mNO concentrations in control explants without adversely affecting cell viability. Treatment with INDOsim blocked PGE2 production and increased mNO concentration in IL-1-stimulated and unstimulated explants and increased mGAG concentration in unstimulated explants. Treatment with DNsim (0.06 and 0.18 mg/mL) reduced mPGE2 concentration in IL-1-stimulated and unstimulated explants, reduced mNO concentration in IL-1-stimulated explants, and increased mNO concentration in unstimulated explants. Treatment with 0.18 mg of DNsim/mL increased cell viability in the presence of IL-1. In IL-1-stimulated explants, BOsim (0.06 and 0.18 mg/mL) reduced mPGE2 concentration, but 0.18 mg of BOsim/mL increased cell viability.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Effects of IL-1 on cartilage explants in vitro were modulated by DNsim and BOsim.

Anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective effects of nutraceuticals from Sasha's Blend in a cartilage explant model of inflammation

New Zealand green lipped mussel (NZGLM), abalone (AB), and shark cartilage (SC) are extensively used for treatment of and/or as preventatives for arthritis, despite a relative paucity of scientific evidence for efficacy. This research integrated a simulated digestion protocol with ultrafiltration and cartilage explants to generate new information on the anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective properties of NZGLM, SC, and AB. Each nutraceutical was artificially digested using simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, and the crude digest was ultrafiltered (50 kDa). Each filtrate was applied individually to cartilage explants before the explants were stimulated with IL-1 to induce an acute inflammatory response. Media were collected daily for 48 h and analyzed for prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and nitric oxide (NO), and cartilage tissue was differentially stained to determine the relative proportion of live and dead cells. SC and NZGLM significantly inhibited IL-1-induced PGE(2) synthesis and IL-1-induced GAG release, and AB was an effective inhibitor of IL-1-induced NO production. The three test nutraceuticals affect at least three major pathways involved in the catabolic cycle of arthritis and may prove important treatments and/or preventatives for the pain and degradation associated with this condition. The methodology and results describe a useful model for evaluating dietary nutraceuticals in vitro.

Low-dose ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) modulates the course and magnitude of the antibody response to vaccination against equid herpesvirus I in horses

The purpose of this study was to determine if ginseng fed at low levels enhances a horse's antibody response to vaccination against Equid herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1). For 28 d, 5 horses received ground, powdered ginseng (35 mg/kg body weight, 1.7 mg/kg total ginsenosides) in molasses as a carrier, and 5 received molasses only. On day 14, each horse was vaccinated against EHV-1. The time course of the antibody response to vaccination was significantly altered in the horses receiving ginseng, a clinically relevant increase in antibody titer being observed by postvaccination day 2 compared with day 6 in the control horses. The horses receiving ginseng also had a significant decrease in serum levels of sodium and a significant increase in serum levels of potassium. No adverse effects of ginseng treatment were identified by hematologic and blood biochemistry profiles. Thus, low-dose dietary supplementation with ginseng in healthy horses may be a useful adjunct to vaccination.

Pilot study investigating the ability of an herbal composite to alleviate clinical signs of respiratory dysfunction in horses with recurrent airway obstruction

Recurrent airway obstruction (RAO), known previously as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is a debilitating respiratory condition that significantly contributes to lost training days and illness in racehorses. Herbs are becoming increasingly popular for the prophylaxis or treatment of the clinical signs of RAO despite a paucity of research on efficacy and safety. We evaluated the ability of an herbal composite containing garlic, white horehound, boneset, aniseed, fennel, licorice, thyme, and hyssop to reduce the clinical signs of RAO, hypothesizing that the product would safely reduce signs and would improve the inflammatory cell profile within the lungs. The composite was fed to 6 horses with symptomatic RAO for 21 d in a crossover manner. Ventigraphs were used to record respiratory rate and intrapleural pressure; the proportion of inflammatory cells in fluid aspirated from the trachea was determined. Blood biochemical and hematologic screening was conducted to identify possible adverse effects. Treatment with the composite did not result in statistically significant changes in any of the parameters evaluated. A trend to a decrease in respiratory rate (P = 0.1) and an increase in the proportion of macrophages (P = 0.1) was observed in the horses receiving the herbal composite compared with placebo. These data indicate a potential for the herbal composite to safely reduce the elevated respiratory rate in horses with RAO. Future research with a greater number of horses is warranted to further characterize the effect of this product on horses with RAO.

Association of maximum voluntary dietary intake of freeze-dried garlic with Heinz body anemia in horses

OBJECTIVE

To characterize hematologic and clinical consequences of chronic dietary consumption of freeze-dried garlic at maximum voluntary intake in horses.

ANIMALS

4 healthy sex- and age-matched horses.

PROCEDURE

An initial garlic dose (0.05 g/kg, twice daily) was fed to 2 horses in a molasses carrier as part of their normal ration and was gradually increased to maximum voluntary intake (0.25 g/kg, twice daily) over 41 days. Dietary supplementation then continued for a total of 71 days. Two control horses were fed molasses with no garlic with their ration. Blood samples were collected weekly and analyzed for hematologic and biochemical changes, including the presence of Heinz bodies. Recovery of affected blood values was followed for 5 weeks after termination of dietary supplementation with garlic.

RESULTS

At a daily dose of > 0.2 g/kg, horses fed garlic developed hematologic and biochemical indications of Heinz body anemia, as characterized by increases in Heinz body score (HBS), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin, platelet count, and serum unconjugated and total bilirubin concentrations and decreases in RBC count, blood hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and serum haptoglobin concentration. Recovery from anemia was largely complete within 5 weeks after termination of dietary supplementation with garlic. Heinz body score and MCV remained high at the end of the 5-week recovery period.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Horses will voluntarily consume sufficient quantities of garlic to cause Heinz body anemia. The potential for garlic toxicosis exists when horses are chronically fed garlic. Further study is required to determine the safe dietary dose of garlic in horses.

The relationship between attendance at religious services and cardiovascular inflammatory markers

OBJECTIVE

Previous studies have shown an association between attendance at religious services and health, particularly cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Little research has focused on religious attendance and physiological markers of cardiovascular risk. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between religious attendance and inflammatory markers of cardiovascular risk.

METHOD

Nationally representative sample of non-institutionalized United States adults aged 40 and over derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III 1988-1994 (n = 10,059). The main outcome measures were the inflammatory system markers C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, and white blood cell count.

RESULTS

40.8 percent of the population attended religious services 40 or more times in the previous year while 22.4 percent attended services less than 40 times and 36.8 percent attended no religious services at all. Non-attenders of religious services were more likely than attenders to have elevated white blood cell counts (p = .001), highly elevated C-reactive protein (p = .02), and elevated fibrinogen (p = .05). After adjusting for demographic variables, health status, and BMI, the association between religious attendance and cardiovascular markers remained. Once current smoking was added to the model the independent effect of religious attendance dropped below conventional confidence limits.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that people who have attended religious services in the previous year are less likely to have elevated levels of certain inflammatory markers, however, current smoking has significant shared variance with religious attendance.

Gene structure, expression and chromosomal localization of murine theta class glutathione transferase mGSTT1-1

We have isolated and characterized a cDNA and partial gene encoding a murine subfamily 1 Theta class glutathione transferase (GST). The cDNA derived from mouse GSTT1 has an open reading frame of 720 bp encoding a peptide of 240 amino acids with a calculated molecular mass of 27356 Da. The encoded protein shares only 51% deduced amino acid sequence identity with mouse GSTT2, but greater than 80% deduced amino acid sequence identity with rat GSTT1 and human GSTT1. Mouse GSTT1-1 was expressed in Escherichia coli as an N-terminal 6x histidine-tagged protein and purified using immobilized-metal affinity chromatography on nickel-agarose. The yield of the purified recombinant protein from E. coli cultures was approx. 14 mg/l. Recombinant mouse GSTT1-1 was catalytically active towards 1, 2-epoxy-3-(p-nitrophenoxy)propane, 4-nitrobenzyl chloride and dichloromethane. Low activity towards 1-menaphthyl sulphate and 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene was detected, whereas mouse GSTT1-1 was inactive towards ethacrynic acid. Recombinant mouse GSTT1-1 exhibited glutathione peroxidase activity towards cumene hydroperoxide and t-butyl hydroperoxide, but was inactive towards a range of secondary lipid-peroxidation products, such as the trans-alk-2-enals and trans,trans-alka-2,4-dienals. Mouse GSTT1 mRNA is most abundant in mouse liver and kidney, with some expression in intestinal mucosa. Mouse GSTT1 mRNA is induced in liver by phenobarbital, but not by butylated hydroxyanisole, beta-napthoflavone or isosafrole. The structure of mouse GSTT1 is conserved with that of the subfamily 2 Theta class GST genes mouse GSTT2 and rat GSTT2, comprising five exons interrupted by four introns. The mouse GSTT1 gene was found, by in situ hybridization, to be clustered with mouse GSTT2 on chromosome 10 at bands B5-C1. This region is syntenic with the location of the human Theta class GSTs clustered on chromosome 22q11.2. Similarity searches of a mouse-expressed sequence tag database suggest that there may be two additional members of the Theta class that share 70% and 88% protein sequence identity with mouse GSTT1, but less than 55% sequence identity with mouse GSTT2.

Immune mechanisms affecting bovine leucocytes during suppression of tuberculin skin sensitivity in cattle

Complete desensitization to tuberculin skin-testing (anergy) was produced in cattle by repeated intravenous injections of living BCG organisms into animals sensitized by a prior subcutaneous dose of BCG. Two levels of desensitization were produced; complete desensitization following 10 i.v. doses and partial desensitization following 5 i.v. doses of 100 mg BCG. Intradermal tuberculin testing at the end of the experiment stimulated the appearance of reactive blood lymphocytes in sensitized cattle as measured by in vitro 3H-thymidine uptake. The cattle which were partially desensitized showed this response but the completely desensitized cattle did not. Reactivity of blood lymphocytes in vitro to PHA and Brucella abortus antigen was not depressed in the anergic cattle. Serum antibody titres to BCG polysaccharide, PPD, or whole BCG organisms showed remarkably little change during the i.v. desensitizing injections of BCG. Differential blood leucocyte counts also remained within normal limits during this period. The production of MIF by blood lymphocytes from the anergic cattle appeared to be unimpaired. Using 3H-thymidine uptake by lymphocytes from sensitized cattle did not inhibit lymphocyte stimulation with tuberculin. It was concluded that the lack of tuberculin sensitized lymphocytes in the blood of anergic cattle may have been due to their removal from the recirculating pool and their continued suppression in lymphoid tissue.